Boatswain, U.S. Brig Niagara (Coxswain, Flagship Niagara)
Commonwealth of PennsylvaniaTHE POSITION Are you an experienced rigger looking to expand and hone your skills in square rig seamanship while taking on supervisory responsibilities? Do you enjoy sharing your sailing knowledge with others? If so, we have a position for you! The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission is looking for an enthusiastic, energetic, and hard-working Boatswain to join the crew of the U.S. Brig Niagara, Pennsylvania's Flagship. Sailing from her homeport at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, PA, Niagara operates as a sailing school vessel in Lake Erie and the broader Great Lakes. In this position, you will be engaged in all aspects of ship maintenance and operation, allowing you to build upon the skills you have already acquired in your maritime career. This seasonal position is expected to begin in mid-March 2027 and end in mid-October 2027. If you are looking to be part of keeping the tradition of square rig seamanship alive for current and future generations, apply today to serve aboard the U.S. Brig Niagara! DESCRIPTION OF WORK The U.S. Brig Niagara is a fully functional, traditionally rigged brig engaged in sail training and historical interpretation. Through the up rig, maintenance, operation, and down rig of the ship, the Niagara program preserves, interprets, and passes on the traditions of what life was like for sailors living, working, and fighting aboard a square-rigged sailing ship in the early 19th century. The Boatswain leads deck work and supports the ship by guiding others in seamanship and maintenance tasks. The role helps keep the vessel organized, safe, and ready for daily operations. As a Boatswain aboard the U.S. Brig Niagara, you will perform the following duties: Deck Leadership: Guide crew in daily seamanship tasks and oversee shipboard operations Rig and Sail Work: Carry out hands-on rigging, sailing, and upkeep of the vessel Tool and Supply Care: Keep tools in good condition and maintain an inventory of needed supplies Training Support: Teach less experienced crew members and volunteers through supervised tasks Public Engagement: Help visitors understand life aboard a 19th century sailing ship Organization & Safety: Maintain a neat and orderly ship, shop, and berthing area(s) to ensure a safe and professional state of readiness is upheld for staff/crew, trainees, volunteers, and guests The U.S. Brig Niagara's sailing season is March through October, and she conducts a full schedule of sail training (day sails and voyage programs) from May through September. Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description. Work Schedule and Additional Information: This limited-term, seasonal position is expected to start in mid-March 2027 and end mid-October 2027. Work hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesday - Sunday, with a 60-minute lunch. Work schedule may vary per the needs of the ship and programming. Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position. Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable. This position includes room and board. A daily charge of $11.00 (totaling $154.00) will be automatically deducted from each bi-weekly paycheck for the duration of employment. You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices. REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: One year experience working aboard a sailing vessel, including six months experience as a ship's carpenter, and eligibility for a United States Coast Guard Able- Bodied Seaman's Sailing Card. Additional Requirements: You must possess a USCG Able-Bodied Seaman Certification. You must possess at least one year of experience sailing in a traditional rig. You must possess at least six months of experience as a rigger. You must be able to perform essential job functions. Legal Requirements: This position is subject t…