Overview
This six-month gig of nautical excitement (mid-April to the end of September) is tailor-made for the science, sailing, and STEM enthusiast – because, let’s face it, these things float your boat. If you’re the type who gets a kick out of guiding students through the mysteries of the sea by tying knots, joyfully belting out sea shanties, and nailing that elusive synchronized rowing stroke, well, then grab an oar!
As a Youth Programs Educator, you’ll be inspiring students aged 5 to 17 in maritime experiences and team-building activities – because the sea is the most powerful teacher we know. In the spring and fall, you’ll be honing your science inquiry skills while sailing and unleashing your leadership skills for ashore and afloat programs. Come summer, you’ll be messing about in boats with kids, stirring up wonder and curiosity. Forget about the mundane – this is your ticket to a summer of sea-soaked, sun-fueled fun!
If you’ve got a go-getter attitude, ready to dive into any part of the programming action when needed, then you’re our kind of teammate. Creating a vibrant, inclusive, and safe learning vibe is your superpower, and you know how to switch seamlessly between solo acts and partnering with the crew. Do you have clear communication, a collaborative spirit, and the flexibility to ebb and flow with the tides? Join us! We work hard and have fun, each day is a new opportunity to see something cool!
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Spark wonder and curiosity on land and water in a hands-on, engaging way for elementary through high school students, including facilitating shoreside programming in inclement weather
Facilitate daily activities aligned with class content as presented in the program description & curriculum
Ensure and maintain an emotionally and physically safe, fun, and educational environment for all participants
Collaborate with Program Managers, other Educators, and students for a high-quality maritime learning experience
Be accountable for NWM gear inventory and usage, and work with the Program Operations Coordinator for logistics and maintenance
Complete necessary daily paperwork, such as lesson plans and incident reports
Conduct daily check-ins with staff and the School Programs Manager or Summer Program Coordinator
Adhere to established Safety and Risk Management Protocols
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
Teaching experience, preferably in informal settings like summer camps or on the water
Versatility in using various teaching methods for different audiences and learning styles
Work experience with 5-17 year olds
Competence in student management, particularly for elementary to middle school students
An ability to communicate clearly, work collaboratively, and be flexible in dynamic situations
Enthusiasm for working outdoors in all types of weather
Ability to lift and carry gear up to 50lbs
Required Skills:
Current first aid/CPR certification, Anaphylaxis & Epinephrine Auto-Injector Certification, CDC “Heads Up” online concussion training or training plan
Valid driver’s license
Washington State Boaters Card or ability to obtain
About Northwest Maritime
Northwest Maritime is dynamic, growing, making a difference in our community, and taking an increasing role in the region. We serve individual students and program participants, but we also work to help solve community problems like systemic improvements in our public schools, economic development, job training, and working regionally to pair the opportunities in the maritime industry with the need to address systemic oppression in communities of color. Plus, all of the fun stuff like kids’ programs, festivals, and adventure races.
On top of it all, you’d get to work on the water in Port Townsend: natural beauty, heritage buildings, arts community, wooden boats, zero traffic jams. Northwest Maritime’s relative scale to our small town means that the effects of our success can be observed in the success of our community. You’ll be doing meaningful work for the place you live, and your efforts will make a tangible difference.
