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.
Onboard Program Coordinator (OPC)
Full time, Seasonal (February-November)
Applications Due: December 5, 2025
The Onboard Program Coordinator leads and facilitates educational programming both onboard the sloop and onshore. The OPC recruits, trains, and manages onboard volunteers, maintains educational supplies, liaises with teachers and volunteers, and acts as host on public and charter sails. This position reports to Clearwater’s Director of Education and will alternate weekly between working and living communally onboard the Clearwater (facilitating programs) and working on shore (volunteer communications, planning, teaching). Competitive applicants will have a background in environmental education and volunteer management, with a strong work ethic, organizational skills and be prepared to work outdoors in all weather on the Hudson River. Read the full job description.
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.