Mate/Relief Captain

Inland Seas Education Association is looking for someone with a positive attitude to fill the position of Mate with possibility of Relief Captain for the 2025 season aboard the schooners Inland Seas and Alliance. Inland Seas Education Association operates two schooners based in northern Michigan that travel the Great Lakes. We do overnight programs with up to 18 students plus crew and day programs with up to 35 students plus crew. Our vessels are used for collecting research data and teaching Great Lakes topics to students of all ages. It is the mission of Inland Seas Education Association to enhance public understanding and stewardship of the Great Lakes through hands-on shipboard and onshore educational programs for children and adults. Inland Seas Education Association fosters a positive, safe, and inclusive culture. We seek team members who can create a great work environment for people of all backgrounds so that our busy season is fun and enjoyable.

The mate is responsible for assisting the Captain in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. This is a seasonal position. Compensation on days when serving as Mate is $150 per day.

As Relief Captain, they would be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. The Relief Captain is also ISEA’s representative to the maritime community and to the public in ports visited.  Compensation on days when serving as Relief Captain is $250 per day.

Applicants must have at least three years of experience as a crew of a large sailing vessel. They must have the ability to work well with youth, adults, as well as professional staff. They need to be able to lift equipment of 40 pounds or more as well as haul halyards and mooring lines. In addition, this individual must be able to work weekends and evenings (as needed), have the ability to travel and sleep on the ship for multiple days at a time, must pass a criminal background check and participate in ISEA’s drug and alcohol testing program.  They must be able to work aloft in the rigging. This is a good opportunity for a person with solid Mate and watch leading experience who would like to start advancing to Captain. 

Required: Auxiliary Sail endorsed USCG Master or Mates license of at least 100 GRT upon Great Lakes, Near Coastal or Oceans.  They must be CPR and First Aid Certified and have a Valid Driver’s License.

Responsibilities

Sailing – Under supervision of the Captain:

• Directs crew and passengers in the safe and effective operation/navigation of the vessel in support of ISEA’s educational mission
• Leads a navigational watch day or night
• Coordinates daily operations with Lead Instructor to accomplish the educational mission of ISEA within the constraints of weather and other safety-related factors
• Assists less experienced crew with training in vessel operations, seamanship, and safety procedures
• Enforces ship’s rules, policies, and Standing Orders
• Supervises, with education staff, the deployment and recovery of sampling equipment
• Oversees operation of deck machinery, engine room equipment and systems
• Carries out monthly, weekly, and daily safety checks
• Carries out or supervises boat checks during the day
• Directs and/or assists with the loading of equipment in preparation for educational programs
• Participates in and helps evaluate emergency drills

Ship Maintenance

• Leads and oversees the maintenance and repairs of the ship
• Records maintenance and repairs in Ship’s Log
• Carries out or supervises scheduled maintenance
• Sees that sufficient fuel and water are aboard as needed and holding tanks are pumped as needed. Records tankage data in log
• Determines needed equipment and supplies

Leadership

• Serves as an ambassador to the community
• Contributes to the organizational culture that will attract, retain, and motivate a diverse staff of quality employees and volunteers
• Mentors crew and other individuals in the organization. Provides regular performance feedback according to established performance objectives
• Displays passion and optimism: inspires respect and trust, mobilizes others to fulfill the vision and mission, provides vision and inspiration to peers and subordinates
• Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views. Builds morale and group commitments to goals and objectives
• Exhibits sound and accurate judgment

Occupational/Environmental Exposures

• The physical environment requires the employee to work exposed to all conditions found aboard a ship at sea. This includes heavy weather, extreme heat/cold, and precipitation. Occasionally required to use personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous materials.