Junior Sailing Instructor (Adjunct)

University of New Hampshire

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Junior Instructors provide support to participants enrolled in the sailing, kayaking and/or standup paddle boarding (SUP) program. This role involves assisting lead instructors with on-water and land-based classes, developing personal skills in water sports, and demonstrating techniques in safety, boat handling, and sailing theory. Junior Instructors are also responsible for fostering a positive and inclusive environment for youth participants aged 5-18, serving as a role model, and communicating effectively with participants and parents. The position includes operational duties such as assisting with schedule changes, maintaining records, and supporting daily program setup and breakdown. Additionally, Junior Instructors contribute to facility and equipment maintenance and adhere to strict risk management and safety protocols.

Requirements

Strong communication skills, enthusiasm, and patience for working with children and parents.
Ability to model appropriate behavior, language, and sportsmanship.
Ability to adapt to participant needs and create an inclusive learning environment.
Ability to assist in teaching sailing fundamentals and safety concepts.
Ability to follow procedures and maintain program and safety standards.
Strong Supervision and Safety Awareness: Ability to maintain constant vigilance and ensure the safety and well-being of youth participants in waterfront settings.
Program Implementation and Creativity: Knowledge of planning and delivering engaging, age-appropriate activities while fostering a fun and inclusive environment.
Risk Management and Emergency Response Skills: Familiarity with risk management procedures, with the ability to respond effectively to routine and emergency situations, including administering basic first aid.
Effective Communication and Team Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with colleagues, as well as the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
Employment contingent of the successful completion of a background check and the following Campus Recreation provided training: USNH Protection of Minors, ‘CPR, AED & First-Aid’, Bloodborne Pathogens, and Risk Management training.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working with children ages 5–12.
Background in one-design or dinghy sailing.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support to instructors during on-water and land-based classes while developing personal sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) skills.
Demonstrate on-water techniques and assist with instruction in safety, boat handling, and sailing theory.
Develop and follow lesson plans that include on-water drills, dry land instruction, and inclement weather activities.
Build skills necessary to effectively instruct and engage participants ages 5–18.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment for youth participants.
Serve as a role model by demonstrating appropriate behavior, language, and Corinthian spirit.
Communicate effectively with participants and support positive interactions with parents/guardians.
Assist instructors in communicating schedule changes, weather-related cancellations, and make-up sessions to participants.
Maintain accurate records of attendance, incidents/injuries, and equipment damage.
Support daily program setup and breakdown.
Assist with maintaining and cleaning docks, boats, and program areas before and after classes.
Support care and upkeep of equipment and facilities under the direction of the Sailing Director.
Adhere to UNH Youth Program Code of Conduct and Summer Sailing Centre Risk Management Procedures.
Follow all safety protocols and demonstrate compliance with risk management expectations.