Sailing Instructor - year round

Sailing Instructor – Seattle Sailing Club (ASA Affiliate School)

Location: Seattle, Washington (Puget Sound)
Position Type: Part-Time (flexible, year-round opportunities available)

About Us

Seattle Sailing Club is one of the largest American Sailing Association (ASA) schools on the West Coast, teaching sailing from beginner through advanced levels. Since 1968, we’ve built a reputation as a fun, welcoming place to learn and sail, offering hands-on instruction in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Our instructors teach a wide range of programs including ASA certification courses (ASA 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, and 118), private lessons, team-building events, racing, clinics, and member programs.

Have Sailing Instructor Certificates from another program (U.S. Sailing, RYA, etc)? We offer ASA conversion clinics to convert your instructor certifications to American Sailing certifications!

Position Overview

We are seeking enthusiastic and professional American Sailing Certified Instructors to teach adult students in keelboats (26’–45’) on Puget Sound. Instructors create a safe, engaging learning environment while delivering ASA curriculum and hands-on training. We teach year-round and welcome instructors who want to teach as little or as much as possible. Scheduling depends on our lesson schedule, the time of year, and current events and programs.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License (any tonnage)
• ASA Certified Instructor (ASA 201 or higher)
• Current First Aid & CPR certification
• Enrollment in a maritime drug testing program
• Strong sailing skills (keelboats 26’–45’, sail and auxiliary power)
• Passion for sailing, teaching, and working with people
• Positive attitude and flexibility with scheduling

Responsibilities

• Teach sailing lessons (beginner to intermediate ASA courses) in classroom and on-the-water settings. Deliver instruction in boat handling, sailing theory, and safety
• Provide a safe, supportive learning environment for students
• Adapt teaching to different learning styles
• Administer and grade ASA certification exams
• Maintain clean classroom and vessels; set a high standard for students and members alike
• Assist students with proper boat handling and post-sail procedures
• Promote club programs, events, and membership opportunities

Preferred Qualifications

• Coast Guard Sailing Endorsement
• Prior sailing instruction or coaching experience
• Racing or spinnaker instruction experience
• Corporate/team-building facilitation experience
• Knowledge of Puget Sound waters

Schedule & Availability

• Flexible, year-round teaching opportunities
• Instructors may work as little as a few sessions per year
• Scheduling varies based on season and lesson demand

Benefits

• Matching 401(k) plan
• Paid Sick and Safe Time (PSST)
• Transportation Commuter Benefit Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Perks

• Tips
• Pro Shop Discounts
• Free Sailing Lessons
• 50% discount on lessons for your partner/spouse, children, and grandchildren
• Free flotillas, clinics, and seminars; 50% discount for eligible family members
• Boat Usage Privileges

Pay: $28.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid training
• Referral program

Work Location: In person