Education Positions
We are currently not hiring for any open education positions at this time.
Crew Positions
Captain
Job Description:
Inland Seas Education Association seeks an enthusiastic, hard-working individual to join our team as a full-time Captain for schooners Inland Seas and Alliance. The ideal candidate has experience working on traditional sailing vessels, navigating the Great Lakes, and holds, at minimum, a USCG 100 Ton Great Lakes Master’s License, with Sail Endorsement. This position reports to ISEA’s Senior Captain and is responsible for the Mate, Deckhands, and Cook while onboard.
ISEA operates two schooners, Inland Seas and Alliance, based in Suttons Bay, Michigan, and operating throughout the Great Lakes. We conduct overnight programs with up to 18 students plus crew and day programs with up to 35 students plus crew. Our vessels are used for Great Lakes environmental education and scientific research. It is the mission of ISEA to enhance public understanding and stewardship of the Great Lakes through hands-on shipboard and onshore educational programs for youth and adults. ISEA 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 safe and enjoyable.
The full-time role of Captain is a year-round position based in Suttons Bay, MI. The sailing season runs from mid-April through mid-October, during which the Captain is responsible for ship operations. During the non-sailing season, the Captain oversees ship maintenance and repairs, seasonal crew hiring, and volunteer crew training.
To read the full job description, click here.
To apply, please submit a resume and letter of interest to Senior Captain Ben Hale at isea@schoolship.org. References will be requested for final candidates. Position open until filled. Applications accepted on a rolling basis.
Relief Captain
Job Description:
Inland Seas Education Association seeks someone with a positive attitude to fill the position of Relief Captain for the 2026 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 visite
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.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Apply by email addressed to Ben Hale, Senior Captain, with a resume, a cover letter, and three references, at 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 performing other tasks. Learn more about volunteering with ISEA here.
