Seasonal Private Boat Captain & Marine Operations Specialist

Lake Michigan & Lake Forest, Illinois

Summer Seasonal Position

Compensation: $80,000–$100,000

Position Overview

A private family is seeking an experienced, hands-on Boat Captain & Marine Operations Specialist to oversee the safe operation, maintenance, and overall readiness of their private vessel and recreational watercraft throughout the summer boating season on Lake Michigan.

This role combines professional captaining responsibilities with vessel maintenance, marine operations, guest service, and water safety. The ideal candidate will take full ownership of the family's boating program, ensuring the vessel remains in exceptional condition and ready for immediate use at all times.

The successful candidate will possess strong boating knowledge, excellent seamanship, and a practical mechanical aptitude. They will serve as both a trusted captain and a knowledgeable resource for the family, providing guidance on boating safety, navigation, docking procedures, and recreational water activities while creating a safe and enjoyable experience for family members and guests.

This is a seasonal position that runs throughout the boating season. At the conclusion of the season, the Captain will coordinate vessel winterization and storage preparations before the role concludes.

Primary Responsibilities

Vessel Operation & Guest Experience

• Serve as Captain and primary operator of the family's 2017 Cobalt R7.
• Maintain the vessel in turnkey condition and ready for family use at all times.
• Safely captain family outings, recreational cruises, entertaining excursions, and water sports activities.
• Handle all docking, launching, navigation, and vessel operations.
• Monitor weather and lake conditions to ensure safe boating practices.
• Develop routes, itineraries, and activity plans based on the family's preferences.
• Deliver a professional, discreet, and service-oriented experience for family members and guests.
• Ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, with particular attention to children and inexperienced boaters.

Marine Maintenance & Vessel Care

• Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, cleaning, detailing, and basic troubleshooting.
• Maintain all mechanical, electrical, navigation, communication, and safety systems.
• Identify maintenance needs proactively and address issues before they become larger concerns.
• Coordinate specialized repairs and oversee third-party marine service providers when necessary.
• Manage fueling, provisioning, inventory, and marine supplies.
• Maintain the vessel's appearance and operational readiness to the highest standards throughout the season.

Watercraft & Recreational Equipment

• Oversee the care, maintenance, and readiness of all recreational watercraft and equipment, including jet skis, paddle boards, kayaks, and related accessories.
• Provide instruction and supervision for family members operating recreational watercraft.
• Ensure all recreational equipment is maintained, stored properly, and operated safely.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain all required safety equipment, registrations, permits, and vessel documentation.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and equipment checks.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, federal, and maritime regulations.
• Educate family members and guests on boating safety procedures and emergency protocols.
• Promote a culture of safety and preparedness on and around the water.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate logs of vessel usage, maintenance, repairs, inspections, and service records.
• Track maintenance schedules and coordinate seasonal service requirements.
• Assist with budgeting recommendations, equipment purchases, and operational improvements.
• Coordinate vendor scheduling and marine service appointments as needed.

End-of-Season Responsibilities

• Coordinate vessel haul-out, winterization, and storage preparation.
• Ensure all maintenance items are completed prior to storage.
• Organize inventories, equipment, and documentation for the following season.
• Provide recommendations for future repairs, upgrades, and preventative maintenance.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Boat Captain, Marine Technician, Marine Engineer, or similar maritime role.
• Extensive experience operating recreational vessels in freshwater environments.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on maintenance experience.
• Experience working with private families and delivering high levels of service.
• Knowledge of marine electrical, fuel, propulsion, and navigation systems.
• Experience with jet skis and recreational watercraft.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• CPR and First Aid Certification preferred.
• US Coast Guard Captain's License strongly preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Professional demeanor, sound judgment, discretion, and respect for confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a proactive and service-oriented boating professional who enjoys both operating and maintaining vessels. They are highly organized, mechanically inclined, safety-focused, and take pride in ensuring every aspect of the family's boating experience is seamless and enjoyable.

Candidates with strong technical, engineering, or marine maintenance backgrounds who enjoy hands-on work and direct interaction with family members will be particularly well suited for this opportunity.

Compensation

• Seasonal compensation package of $80,000–$100,000, commensurate with experience, licensing, and qualifications.
• Opportunity to spend the summer supporting a private family in a beautiful Lake Michigan setting.
• Professional and respectful working environment with a family that values safety, discretion, and exceptional service.

Position Term

This is a seasonal summer position. Employment is anticipated to run throughout the family's boating season and will conclude following the completion of end-of-season responsibilities, including vessel winterization and storage preparation.

There are no off-season or long-term employment opportunities associated with this position at this time.

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