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Staff Positions

Communications Coordinator

The Communications Coordinator is responsible for developing and implementing external marketing and communication strategies that support Inland Seas Education Association’s (ISEA) mission and brand. This leadership position ensures ISEA’s work is clearly and consistently communicated to donors, volunteers, and the wider community through creating, editing, and managing content as well as evaluating effectiveness of marketing and communication strategies. A high level of organization, strategic communication, problem solving capabilities, and technology use is required. The Communications Coordinator reports to the Associate Director and will work closely with the rest of the ISEA team to effectively amplify our work to our audiences, determine communication needs of departments, and ensure consistency across all communication platforms. To read the full job description please click here.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three writing samples that highlight your range of skills from a previous or current communication role to isea@schoolship.org. References will be requested for final candidates. For full consideration, apply by April 13, 2025.

Crew Positions

Mate/Relief Captain

Job Description:
Inland Seas Education Association seeks someone with a positive attitude to fill the position of Mate with the 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), 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. 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.

Relief Captain

Job Description:
Inland Seas Education Association seeks 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.


ISEA Values

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.

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