Assistant Head Sailing Instructor
Assistant Head Sailing Instructor – Seasonal (June-August)
Overview:
The New York Athletic Club located in Pelham Manor, NY is seeking an enthusiastic, experienced Assistant Head Sailing Instructor for our Junior Sailing Program for the 2026 summer season.
The summer program’s goal is to create a safe, positive, and fun environment where every child can discover a lifelong love of being on the water.
We are seeking an energetic and passionate Assistant Head Sailing Instructor to support our sailing program. The ideal candidate enjoys working with children, communicating well with young sailors and parents, and is passionate about teaching sailing in a safe, supportive, and engaging way. You'll work closely with the Head Sailing Instructor to deliver daily lessons, games, and on-the-water instruction.
Responsibilities:
- Assist with developing on-the-water instruction and supervision for sailors of all levels.
- Support daily lesson plans focused on fun, safety, and basic sailing skills (rigging, steering, tacking, sail trim, capsize recovery, etc.).
- Maintain a strong culture of safety by enforcing club and US Sailing safety standards, conducting daily equipment checks, and ensuring appropriate supervision at all times.
- Help with rigging, launching, maintaining and cleaning program boats (e.g., Optis, C420, or similar).
- Promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence among young sailors.
- Encourage participation and keep sailors engaged through games and hands-on learning.
- Assist with daily setup, cleanup, and equipment organization.
- Assist with parent communication alongside the Manager of Youth Programs
- Assist with daily administrative work ie. Attendance, boat arrangements, newsletter creation, and inventory of equipment and uniforms.
Requirements:
- Minimum two years of coaching experience in a junior sailing program
- Possess a Level 1 Instructor Certification from US Sailing
- Possess a Safe Powerboat Handling Certification from US Sailing
- Possess a compliant First Aid/CPR/AED Certification
- Pass the NYS and national background check
- Transportation to and from Travers Island required
- Experience working with children and teens in an instructional, athletic, or educational setting-strong classroom or group-management skills are essential.
- Ability to design engaging on-water and land-based lessons promoting safety, skill building, and enthusiasm.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to connect with young sailors, parents, staff, and club leadership.
- Reliable, professional, and comfortable representing the club to members.
- Passion for mentoring youth and promoting teamwork, responsibility, and sportsmanship.
- Regatta experience preferred.