Clearwater acknowledges that the construct of race disproportionally affects Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. We reflect and take action to ensure that our organization does not perpetuate white supremacy. Clearwater respects LGBTQIA+ people and we use language and actions that are respectful of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Clearwater celebrates and welcomes members of all race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation or identity, physical or mental disability, or age to apply.
If you are interested in volunteering with Clearwater onboard the sloop or in another capacity please visit our Volunteer Opportunities page.
2025-2026 Winter Crew Positions
The Sloop Clearwater sails on the Hudson River, between Albany and NYC, and works to provide innovative environmental education programs, advocacy, and celebrations designed to expand people’s experience, awareness, and stewardship of this magnificent natural resource.
In addition to pay, room, and board, crew members receive two days off per week. All crew members are expected to develop a thorough knowledge of the vessel, safety standards, and emergency procedures. Crew are required to pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to random drug testing throughout their contract. Clearwater crew serve as instructors in the sloop’s education program under the direction of an Onboard Education Coordinator. The crew is joined by 4-6 education volunteers each week, with whom they are expected to maintain good rapport throughout the week.
Winter Trainee
Seasonal, 4-10 week positions, starting November 2025 and ending March 2026
Category: Deck: Unlicensed
The Sloop Clearwater sails on the Hudson River, between Albany and NYC, and works to provide innovative environmental education programs, advocacy, and celebrations designed to expand people’s experience, awareness and stewardship of this magnificent natural resource. Clearwater spends the Winter Maintenance season docked in Kingston, NY.
The Clearwater is now accepting applications for the position of Winter Trainee for the 2025-2026 winter season (November 1 – March 30). Under the direction of the Captain and the Winter Maintenance Coordinator trainees will assist in winter maintenance projects of this traditionally-rigged wooden sailing vessel. This is an entry-level, learning position. Ideal candidates are willing to learn and ask questions, do physical labor, and focus on the task at hand.
Applicants must enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds and be able to maintain a work environment that challenges gender stereotypes and is LGBTQ+ affirming. Applicants also must have experience working in, sensitivity to, and appreciation for ethnically diverse viewpoints and different communication styles.
Compensation starts at $160/week plus room and board in Kingston, NY.
All crew will be required to follow COVID-19 health and safety guidelines as set by the CDC and USCG. Vaccination for COVID-19 is required.
Please email captains@clearwater.org if you have any questions or a resume and letter of intent if you are interested in future employment opportunities.
2026 Sailing Season Positions
The Sloop Clearwater sails on the Hudson River, between Albany and NYC, and works to provide innovative environmental education programs, advocacy, and celebrations to expand people’s knowledge, awareness, and stewardship of the river.
In addition to pay, room, and board, crew members receive two days off per week. All crew members are expected to develop a thorough knowledge of the vessel, safety standards, and emergency procedures. Crew are required to pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to random drug testing throughout their contract. Clearwater crew serve as instructors in the sloop’s education program under the direction of an Onboard Education Coordinator. The crew is joined by 4-6 education volunteers each week, with whom they are expected to maintain good rapport throughout the week.
Qualified candidates can email their resume and brief letter of intent to captains@clearwater.org noting the position of interest in the subject line.
Bosun
Seasonal, Late March through July 2026
Category: Deck: Unlicensed
Under the direction of the first mate, the bosun is responsible for daily vessel operation as a deckhand/educator and is also responsible for deck maintenance. They maintain and monitor a list of maintenance projects and supplies. They maintain tools and equipment, keep the bosun’s locker properly stowed, and report inventory needs to the captain. They also work with the first mate in implementing and supervising crew in maintenance projects. At the end of their season, the bosun is expected to turn over a season’s end report. The Bosun may act as a relief engineer or relief cook. Must have experience in the maintenance of traditionally-rigged sailing vessels.
This is a live aboard position. Compensation starts at $560/week plus room and board. Partial season applications accepted.
Cook
Seasonal, Late March through July 2026
Category: Deck: Unlicensed
The Clearwater is now accepting applications for the position of Cook for the 2025 season (Late March – mid-November). The Cook is responsible for planning and serving three well-balanced meals per day for all crew. Meals must be planned within budget limitations and time constraints, taking into account special dietary needs and a preference for local and sustainable food. The Cook maintains adequate provisions including propane supplies. They work closely with the Captain and Mate on meal scheduling and provisioning. The galley equipment and cooking utensils must be properly cleaned and maintained and the galley properly stowed. The Cook is expected to participate on deck when necessary. They are expected to train the crew in relief Cook duties. The Cook is expected to develop a working knowledge of the vessel and emergency procedures.
This is a live aboard position. Compensation starts at $600/week plus room and board. Partial season applications accepted.
2026-2027 Restoration Boatbuilding Positions
Boatbuilding Trainee
4-10 week positions from July 2026-April 2027
The Clearwater is now accepting applications for the position of Boatbuilding Trainee for 4-10 week periods during the 2026-2027 Restoration Project (July 2026- April 2027). Under the direction of the Captain, Restoration Mate, and Shipwrights, the Boatbuilding Trainees will be:
- scraping, sanding, painting and/or varnishing boat surfaces
demolishing existing structures
assisting senior shipwrights in boat building tasks
learning and engaging in wooden boat restoration
learning and following safety protocols
Ideal candidates will be ready for hard work in various weather conditions. They will have interest in wooden boat restoration and in learning a wide variety of tasks. This work will be physically demanding.
They also work with winter volunteers, implementing and supervising them in maintenance projects. As an entry-level learning position,
Boatbuilding Trainees are expected to take initiative to educate themselves in all aspects of wooden boat restoration and wood shop safety.
Compensation is $200/week plus room and board in shared housing.
Email captains@clearwater.org to apply.