RIVER - Nautical Sailor Trainer

Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Executive Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications.

Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Switzerland or in possession of a valid work permit.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

• Reports to the Nautical Instructor Team Leader and trains, assesses, and develops Sailors and Sailors Light throughout their career path to the Boatman exam.
• Delivers practical sailor and safety training while ensuring consistent assessment and development standards across the fleet.
• Field-based role with up to 90% travel across Europe.
• Professional experience in inland navigation is essential; candidates with exclusively ocean-going, offshore, or deep-sea experience will not be considered.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Practical Sailor TrainingDeliver practical sailor training in line with Viking's training programs and standards, embedding safety and risk assessment so trainees identify hazards and apply appropriate control measures.Deliver training on mooring operations, including the use of anchors, cranes, winches, mooring lines, and nautical knots in various operational conditions.Deliver training on deck operations and vessel maintenance, including cleaning, painting, storage management, flag handling, and preparations for low-bridge navigation.Train guest-facing operations (gangway setup with the outer crane, luggage handling, Sundeck setup), basic engine room maintenance in coordination with the Engineer, and support of wheelhouse operations during maneuvers.Mentor Sailors and Sailors Light throughout their training, creating a learning atmosphere that builds confidence and professionalism.
• Assessment, Progress and PromotionAssess trainee performance, provide feedback, and monitor progress through the Learning Management System.Maintain and continuously improve assessment standards and tools in collaboration with the Sailor Trainer team.Support promotion decisions and coordinate internal and external Boatman examinations.Develop and maintain training materials, equipment, and tools, ensuring alignment with operational practices and safety standards.
• Stakeholder CoordinationCoordinate training plans and schedules with Nautical Operations, Captains and onboard crew, Nautical Training Administrators, Nautical Planners, Recruiting, and HR.Coordinate with external examination bodies, training providers, and equipment suppliers.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

• Completed nautical education and proven qualification as a Sailor in inland navigation; valid Sailor's Book (Blue Book).
• Minimum three years of experience in inland navigation as Second Officer, Boatman, or in a similar role.
• Additional certification or experience in training, assessment, or examination in maritime or inland navigation is an asset.
• Fluent in English; German, Dutch, or French is an asset.
• Proven experience leading mooring and maneuvering operations, ideally on a Viking Longship.
• Strong practical knowledge of deck equipment, mooring systems, cranes, anchors, nautical knots, and deck and basic engine room maintenance.
• Able to use IT equipment as an end-user; knowledge of Microsoft 365 is an asset.
• Willingness to travel up to 90%.

CULTURE & BENEFITS

• Fast-growing and dynamic environment, a modern workspace, flexible working hours.

HOW TO APPLY