OUR SCHOOL
is a leading independent co-educational boarding school for ages 12-18 (grades 8-12) on Canada's beautiful west coast. Our world-class facilities situated on a stunning 270-acre campus include ten boarding houses, a theatre, film lab, an observatory, salmon hatchery, rowing crew house on the lake, dance studio, state of the art Learning Commons and Library, recording studio, and robotics lab. Our diverse, inter-disciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
BOATHOUSE MANAGER & ROWING COACH
Employment Type: Permanent, full-time, 1.0 FTE, 12-month position. Position Start Date: August 31, 2026 (a later start may be considered).
Compensation: $70,000 - $75,000 per year. Starting salary is determined based on the successful candidate's knowledge, experience, and internal parity.
- After 3 months of employment, a full benefits package and RRSP with employer-matched contributions, paid vacation, a flexible work environment, and a nurturing family-friendly workplace.
- Subsidized lunch to enjoy delicious meals provided on-site.
- Campus Gym and Wellness Centre access
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Boathouse Manager & Rowing Coach plays an integral role in supporting the Rowing Program at Shawnigan Lake School. Working closely with the Head of Rowing, this position is responsible for the ongoing maintenance, operational readiness, and safety of all rowing facilities, equipment, and infrastructure.
This role ensures the boathouse/crewhouse, boats, oars, and associated organizational systems are maintained to a high standard through regular upkeep, preventative maintenance, and coordination with internal and external service providers. Additionally, this position serves as a key liaison with Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) and guest users, provides leadership in regatta logistics, and delivers hands-on coaching and safety training directly contributing to student-athlete development.
Shawnigan Lake School is committed toand promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff (and volunteers) to share this commitment. Candidates will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with previous employers and a vulnerable sector criminal record check.
To apply, please submit a copy of your resume/CV and cover letter to the attention of Jennifer Parffit, Head of Rowing, via our
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Core responsibilities include the following, with further details outlined in the full job description.
Facilities & Equipment Management
- Perform day-to-day oversight, routine upkeep, and minor repairs on all rowing gear, including but not limited to boats, oars, outboard motors, docks, and indoor/outdoor training equipment, ensuring everything is safe and operational;
- Maintain the cleanliness, appearance, and functionality of boathouse indoor and outdoor areas, including power washing and collaborating with the Maintenance department on larger tasks like dock repairs to ensure facilities remain in safe and operational condition;
Student Services & Coaching
- Provide coaching support within PE rowing classes, sport rowing sessions, and provide coaching and operational assistance during extended co- curricular sessions;
- Support athlete development through technical instruction, feedback, and structured training sessions in collaboration with the Head of Rowing;
- Unlock, prepare, and supervise rowing facilities for both internal student groups and external users as required;
Safety
- Determine rowable conditions in consultation with the Head of Rowing;
- Follow safety regulations as outlined by Rowing Canada Aviron;
- Conduct regular safety inspections of equipment, including safety launches, emergency kits, PFDs, and related gear;
- Verify and maintain records ensuring all safety boat drivers hold valid Pleasure Craft Operator Cards (PCOC).
Regattas, other Events & External Relations
- Lead preparation, logistics, and equipment setup for both head race and sprint regatta seasons, including course installation and trailer transport;
- Partner with the Head of Rowing to organize hosting committees and ensure all regatta sanctioning and compliance requirements are met;
- Manage facility booking documentation ensuring all internal and external boathouse activities are accurately reflected on the school calendar;
Summer Camps
- Provide operational and safety supervision during summer camp sessions, ensuring all guest campers and staff adhere to Shawnigan's safety standards and equipment protocols;
- Support Shawnigan hosted summer rowing camps, contributing technical expertise and on-the-water instruction to camp participants.
Shawnigan Support
Other duties as assigned by the Head of Rowing.
REQUIREMENTS
- RCA Coach certification or equivalent, in good standing with Rowing Canada Aviron;
- Valid Class 5 driver's license with heavy trailer endorsement;
- Valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC);
- Valid OFA Level 3 First Aid certification is an asset, or prepared to acquire certification within six months of employment;
- Current knowledge of rowing best practices, including Safe Sport standards;
- Experience transporting large equipment trailers and regatta logistics;
- Strong understanding of boat construction, repair, and preventative maintenance; knowledge of outboard motors and mechanical systems is an asset;
- Working knowledge of building, dock, and facility maintenance;
- Strong digital proficiency, with excellent administrative, organizational, written and verbal communication, and spreadsheet/data management skills;
Strong interpersonal skills.
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Shawnigan Lake School is an equal opportunity employer committed to establishing an inclusive, equitable, and accessible environment for all. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status or any other basis protected by applicable law.
We express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest in this position, however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Competition closes when filled.
