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.
Engineer
Seasonal, Late March through July 2026
Category: Deck: Unlicensed
Under the direction of the Captain, the Engineer is responsible for the care and maintenance of the vessel’s mechanical and electrical systems. This includes daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance of the main engine, the on-deck engine and fire pump system, the freshwater system, the bilge pumping system, the refrigerator system, and the electrical systems. The Engineer is responsible for regular checks of the vessel’s safety and emergency gear. They are responsible for the maintenance of Engineering tools and equipment, keeping the engine room properly stowed, maintaining engine room logs, and reporting inventory needs to the Captain. The Engineer is expected to train the crew in relief Engineer duties. At the end of their season, the Engineer is expected to turn over a season’s end report. While not performing engineering duties they are responsible for daily vessel operation as an Educator Deckhand. Must have experience working with marine diesel engines.
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.