Job Description

Posting: Head Sailing Instructor

Royal Victoria Yacht Club

Victoria, BC, Canada

Reports To: Sailing & Boating Manager

Supervises: All Sailing Instructors

Term: Seasonal Full-Time Contract for 2026 Season

Job Summary

The Head Sailing Instructor is responsible for the overall supervision, delivery, and safety of the Yacht Club's Sailing School programs, encompassing all youth and adult instruction. This role requires a candidate with strong organizational, communication, and technical sailing skills who can act as a positive role model for both staff and students, ensuring the program adheres to the highest standards set by Sail Canada and the Club.

Key Responsibilities

1. Program Supervision & Development

Curriculum Oversight: Develop, implement, and oversee all instructional programs, including but not limited to the Sail Canada (CANSail) curriculum for all levels, recreational programs, and adult sailing.

Schedule & Logistics: Create and manage the daily and weekly program schedules, instructor assignments, and ensure efficient use of all fleet and waterfront resources.

Safety & Compliance: Establish and enforce strict safety policies and procedures for all on-water and on-land activities. Ensure compliance with all Yacht Club, Sail Canada, and local marine regulations.

Budget Support: Work with the Sailing & Boating Manager to manage the program budget, monitor expenses, administer program registration systems, and provide input as necessary.

2. Staff Leadership & Mentorship

Recruitment & Training: Participate in the interviewing and hiring process for all instructing staff.

Orientation & Development: Ensure all instructors receive the necessary staff training/orientation before their applicable programs begin. Provide continuous mentorship, coaching, and performance feedback to instructors.

Team Supervision: Directly supervise all sailing instructors, managing staff conduct, scheduling (including processing payroll documentation), and conflict resolution.

Role Model: Serve as a positive role model, fostering a professional, fun, and inclusive teaching environment.

3. Communication & Member Relations

Parent/Guardian Liaison: Act as the primary point of contact for parents, guardians, and adult students, handling registration inquiries, addressing concerns, and providing regular program updates.

Internal Coordination: Report regularly to the Sailing & Boating Manager and liaise with the Club's STAYPC Committee, General Manager, and other relevant staff as required.

Promotion: Assist in the promotion and marketing of the Sailing School programs to maximize participation.

4. Fleet & Equipment Management

Maintenance Oversight: Oversee the regular upkeep and secure storage of the club fleet (dinghies, coach boats, and related equipment) and sail training areas. Report any needed repairs in a timely manner.

Start-Up/Shut-Down: Lead the commissioning (rigging, launching) and decommissioning (storage, winterizing) of all boats and equipment at the beginning and end of their applicable program use.

Inventory: Maintain an accurate inventory of all instructional equipment, safety gear, and instructional supplies.

Qualifications & Requirements

Essential Certifications

Current Sail Canada Instructor Certification (preferably a Learning Facilitator designation).

Current Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).

Current Standard First Aid and CPR (or equivalent) certification.

Coach Boat Safety (CBS) certification.

Restricted Operator Certificate - Maritime (ROC-M) / VHF License is highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of [3-5] years experience as a Sailing Instructor, with at least [1-2] years in a supervisory role.

Proven experience managing youth and/or adult learn-to-sail programs.

Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor a team of instructing staff.

Skills & Attributes

Exceptional leadership, organizational, and time management skills.

Outstanding verbal and written communication skills for interacting with students, parents, staff, and club management.

Advanced knowledge of sailing theory, boat handling, and Canadian sailing safety standards.

Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment, particularly in high-stress or emergency situations.

Proficiency with basic maintenance of sailing dinghies and small powerboats.

Must be able to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings, and holidays as required by the program schedule.

Compensation & How to Apply

Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications

Term: Seasonal Full-Time for 2026 Season

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their relevant experience and certifications to: sail.boat.manager@rvyc.ca

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Contract length: 8 months

Pay: From $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Work Location: In person