Great Lakes Education Intern
We’re hiring! ISEA is seeking two individuals for Great Lakes Educator Intern positions, to help with ship and shore programming April 28 – August 15. 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 multi-day sails to away ports such as Detroit, MI, or Duluth, MN. 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.
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 February 9, 2025. Apply by email with resume and letter of interest: Chris Symons, Education Coordinator – csymons@schoolship.org
Seasonal Deckhand
Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) seeks an enthusiastic, hard-working individual to join our team as a Seasonal Deckhand. This position is responsible for serving as a crew member aboard one of our traditionally rigged schooners, Inland Seas or Alliance. This position requires participation in a DOT-approved drug testing program. The 2025 season (early May through mid-October) will include delivering day-sails and overnight programs around the Grand Traverse Bay region of northern Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, Lake Superior, and Detroit, MI. To read the full job description please click here.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, with preference given to those applying by end-of-day March 11, 2025. Apply by email with a resume, cover letter, and three references to isea@schoolship.org.
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 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.
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), 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. 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.
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.
