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.
Office Positions
Advocacy and Communications Associate
Full-Time
Clearwater is seeking a full-time Advocacy and Communications Associate to join our team. The position will report to the Director of Advocacy and Communications, supporting Clearwater’s environmental advocacy efforts and engagement with communities and stakeholders. Strong familiarity with the geographic and political landscape of the Hudson River and watershed required. This is a full-time non-exempt position expected to work 40 hours per week. Applications will be accepted until March 21, 2025. Learn more and apply.
2025 Sailing Crew
The Clearwater is now accepting applications for the positions of Engineer, Cook, Education Deckhand Trainee, and Deckhand for the 2025 sailing season (late March – mid-November). 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.
Qualified candidates can email their resume and brief letter of intent to captains@clearwater.org.
Engineer
Seasonal, Late March to Mid-May
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 are accepted.
Cook
Seasonal, starting Late March – Mid-November
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 are accepted.
Educator Deckhand Trainee
4-10 weeks, April – October 2025
The Clearwater is now accepting applications for the position of Educator Deckhand Trainee for 4-10 week periods during the 2025 sailing season (April-October). Under the direction of the First Mate, Educator Deckhand Trainees carry out the daily needs of the vessel, including underway operations and maintenance. Educator Deckhand Trainees have a strong role in Clearwater’s educational program. Under the direction of the Onboard Program Coordinator, they assist with volunteer training in education stations and learn how to implement the onboard education program. Preference is for applicants to have a background in environmental studies, education, or a related field. As an entry-level learning position, Educator Deckhands are expected to take initiative to educate themselves in all aspects of vessel operations, safety, and seamanship.
This is a live aboard position. Compensation is $160/week plus room and board.