Internships
Spring Education Intern
ISEA is seeking three individuals for Spring Education Intern positions, to help with ship and shore programming April 28 – June 6, 2025.
While previous sailing experience is not necessary, much of the education programs will be provided onboard our traditionally rigged schooners. Programs can be both day sails around Grand Traverse Bay, as well as shoreside watershed exploration. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator and team player, with enthusiasm for teaching about environmental science and the Great Lakes. Early career professionals and people looking to transition into environmental education are encouraged to apply. Note: this position is different than our Great Lakes Education Intern positions, for which the hiring window has closed.
To read the full position description, please click here.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, with preference given to those applying by end-of-day March 9, 2025.
Apply by email with a resume and letter of interest to Education Coordinator Chris Symons, at csymons@schoolship.org
Staff Positions
Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor
Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) seeks an organized, reliable, motivated, versatile professional to fill the full-time position of Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor. The Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor is responsible for the overall maintenance, repair, and cleanliness of ISEA’s facilities, grounds, and associated equipment. This role requires a hands-on professional with a broad skill set who can manage projects, coordinate contractors, and maintain the infrastructure supporting ISEA’s educational programming and operations. This position offers a competitive salary with health benefits, retirement contributions, and paid time off.
To read the full position description, please click here.
Apply for the Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor position by submitting a resume and cover letter to isea@schoolship.org.
Priority will be given to those who submit their application by end-of-day March 16, 2025.
Crew Positions
Mate
Job Description:
Inland Seas Education Association is looking for someone with a positive attitude to fill the position of Mate 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 collect research data and teach 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 to make our busy season fun and enjoyable.
Applicants must have a 100 GRT or greater sail-endorsed Masters License for Great Lakes, Near Coastal, or Oceans and have at least three years of experience as a crew of a large sailing vessel. 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), can 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. To read the full job description click here.
To apply, please email your Resume, Cover Letter, and three References to isea@schoolship.org. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office at (231) 271-3077.
Relief Captain
Job Description:
Inland Seas Education Association is looking for someone with a positive attitude to fill the position of Relief Captain for the 2025 summer season aboard the schooners Inland Seas and Alliance. The Relief Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. The Relief Captain is also ISEA’s representative to the maritime community and the public in ports visited.
Applicants must have a 100 GRT or greater sail-endorsed Masters License for Great Lakes, Near Coastal, or Oceans and have at least three years of experience as an officer 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), must pass a criminal background check, and participate in a DOT random drug testing program. They must be able to work aloft in the rigging. To read the full job description click here.
To apply, please email your Resume, Cover Letter, and three References to isea@schoolship.org. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office at (231) 271-3077.
Mate/Relief Captain
Job Description:
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. The Mate is responsible for assisting the Captain in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. The Relief Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. The Relief Captain is also ISEA’s representative to the maritime community and the public in ports visited. This is a seasonal position.
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. To read the full job description click here.
To apply, please email your Resume, Cover Letter, and three References to isea@schoolship.org. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office at (231) 271-3077.
Our success as an organization depends on the strength of our small team of staff and volunteers. We work closely with our employees to build an innovative, creative, and rewarding work environment. Be part of our hardworking team dedicated to protecting the Great Lakes through education by inspiring curiosity, stewardship, and passion. To apply for any open position, please email your cover letter and resume to isea@schoolship.org.
ISEA is an equal opportunity employer regardless of race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, on-the-job injury, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or belief. Employment decisions are made without consideration of these or any other factors that employers are prohibited by law from considering. Any discriminatory action can be a cause for disciplinary action. ISEA also prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and will reasonably accommodate applicants with a disability, upon request, and will also ensure reasonable accommodation for employees with a disability.
We are always looking for volunteers to help with crewing on the ship, instructing our programs, maintaining the facility and grounds, assisting in the office, and other tasks. Learn more about volunteering with ISEA here.
