Interns must commit to approximately 90-100 paid hours and will gain experience through a minimum of the following: 4 shifts in engineering (typically includes lining up pumps, performing oiling rounds, engine maintenance, etc.); 4 shifts in deck (typically includes handling lines, stewarding passengers, navigating the ship during cruises, etc.); 4 shifts in maintenance (typically includes varnishing, painting, small woodworking projects, etc.); Pre-season orientation and training, dockside aboard the ship.

Internship runs late June through late August. The underway season will begin in July but we will begin the program with training after school gets out at the end of June. Once students are selected for the internship, they will work with The Steamer Virginia V Foundation staff to schedule work shifts based on their availability and the ship's cruising schedule. Interns will serve onboard during dockside or shoreside maintenance shifts as well as underway shifts as engineering and deck crew trainees. In addition, other skill-building opportunities may be arranged with partner organizations such as the Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle Maritime Academy, Northwest Seaport and others. Shifts range from 4-8 hours depending on the event or tasks to be completed. Evening and/or weekends are often required.

During the course of the internship, students will: • Receive practical experience in all aspects of operating a small passenger vessel like SS VIRGINIA V, including deck, engineering, and maintenance tasks. • Participate in fun hands-on learning experiences at a variety of local maritime organizations including Northwest Seaport, the Center for Wooden Boats, and more. • Learn essential soft skills for success in the workforce, including resume and cover letter writing, interview prep, and networking. • Learn about maritime career and education opportunities available to them post-high school. • Have the chance to meet and socialize with other students interested in maritime career pathways. • Receive current City of Seattle minimum wage for their time spent working onboard shifts and attending required intern events. Following their internship, interested students are encouraged to continue volunteering aboard the ship as crew members, and can receive post-internship support and mentorship if they choose to pursue a career in the maritime industry.