Become a CWB Junior Instructor

We start taking applications for Junior Instructors January 3 for the 2026 summer season!

Volunteer at The Center for Wooden Boats! Our Junior Instructor Program is a leadership development program for students who want to advance their skills and gain maritime experience. This program is a great pathway for those who have taken CWB’s sailing or woodworking programs and Junior Instructors often grow into our paid summer camp instructors.

  • Ages: 14-17 years old

    Position: Volunteer

    Download our information sheet here

    Requirements :

    • Small boat or Woodworking experience preferred

    • Ability to work responsibly as part of a team and be a role model to campers

    • Engage in creating a positive and encouraging environment

    • Enjoy working with youth ages 8-14

    • Must commit to a minimum of 3 weeks during peak summer season. Though generally JIs that commit to 3-5 weeks will receive the greatest benefit.

    • Be able to commit to 24 hours (spread out over May/June) of virtual, in person, and on the water training.

  • A Junior Instructor (JI) has the opportunity gain valuable job skills and marketable maritime skills while working on tasks essential for the operation of CWB. CWB JIs have the opportunity to work with our summer camp sailors, teaching them safety on the water, how to rig, and proper sailing techniques. Each JI will help the Instructor conduct day to day activities, such as preparing the classroom, help on and off the water. These volunteer hours can be used as community service hours.

  • ·         Training in on the water safety & boat safety

    ·         Volunteer experience / hours Potential to earn The Presidential Volunteer Service award

    ·         Letter of Recommendation upon request

    ·         CPR/First Aid Training

    ·         Discount on Youth Programs (off season)

    ·         Amazing friendships with other Junior Instructors & Instructors!

    ·         Free child addition to CWB membership when 45+ logged hours volunteered

If you have read the information above and want to be a Junior Instructor, Click HERE to complete your application.

If you have questions or need additional information you can get answers by emailing Youth Programs