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Aca Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Aca Instructor information

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How much do aca instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for aca instructor in the United States is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aca Instructor vs Aca Exam Proctor?

AspectAca InstructorAca Exam Proctor
Required CredentialsTypically requires teaching certification or relevant industry experienceUsually requires proctoring certification or background check
Work EnvironmentClassroom or training setting, interactive teachingTesting centers, online or in-person exam supervision
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, training providersTesting centers, certification bodies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in education and trainingCompared for exam supervision roles

The main difference between an Aca Instructor and an Aca Exam Proctor lies in their roles and work environments. Aca Instructors focus on teaching and training in classroom settings, requiring relevant credentials and industry experience. In contrast, Aca Exam Proctors supervise exams in testing centers, primarily requiring proctoring certifications. Both roles are essential in the certification process but serve different functions within the educational and testing industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ACA Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an ACA Instructor, you need strong paddling proficiency, knowledge of safety protocols, and typically an American Canoe Association (ACA) instructor certification. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid/CPR certifications, and instructional tools like demonstration kayaks or SUP boards is essential. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership are crucial soft skills for effectively teaching and motivating students of varying skill levels. These skills ensure safe, engaging, and educational experiences for participants while upholding high industry standards.

What are some common challenges ACA Instructors face when teaching diverse groups of students?

ACA Instructors often teach students with a wide range of skill levels, learning styles, and backgrounds, which can make it challenging to create lessons that engage everyone equally. Balancing safety, skill progression, and student confidence requires adaptability and strong communication skills. Instructors also need to manage group dynamics, provide individualized feedback, and adjust lesson plans on the fly to accommodate changing conditions or student needs. Successfully navigating these challenges contributes to a positive learning environment and helps all participants achieve their goals.

What are ACA Instructors?

ACA Instructors are certified professionals who teach kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and other paddle sports under the guidelines of the American Canoe Association (ACA). They are trained to provide safety instruction, paddling techniques, and skill development for participants of all ages and experience levels. ACA Instructors must complete rigorous training and certification processes to ensure high standards of safety and teaching quality. Their role often includes leading courses, guiding trips, and promoting responsible stewardship of waterways.
More about Aca Instructor jobs
What job categories do people searching Aca Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aca Instructor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Aca Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,459 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Kayak Instructor

Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking

White Salmon, WA โ€ข On-site

$153 - $195/day

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Wet Planet is looking for Instructors for our kayak school at Wet Planet!

Wet Planet Kayak Instructors enjoy sharing their love of kayaking, introducing people to the sport, and creating amazing experiences for our students. Our popular kayak program includes weekly beginner classes, advanced classes and clinics, kayak guiding on area rivers, youth camps, charter camps for organizations such as First Descents, and an annual multi-day whitewater kayaking trip on the Main Salmon River in Idaho. Following Wet Planet course outlines, Lead Kayaking Instructors set the tone and pace, take care of all course logistics, and take pride in the guest experience and achieving positive course outcomes. Lead Instructors enjoy being the point person while coaching and mentoring assistant instructors. Assistant instructors are new to professional kayak instruction, and work under the supervision of lead instructors while developing their skills and experience.

Wet Planet

Each year, many of our guests and team members return to enjoy the abundance of beautiful rivers we raft and kayak in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Our headquarters are located on the banks of the White Salmon River in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, surrounded by a whitewater paradise and an incredible community of boaters. It's the perfect location for raft guides and kayakers to work and play in the Pacific Northwest.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Formal whitewater kayak instruction experience required for Lead Instructors
  • Professional appearance, excellent communication skills, and team player
  • Ability to kayak comfortably at a Class III level at minimum
  • Comfortable managing a group of students in a dynamic river environment
  • Current Wilderness First Responder & CPR certifications required for Lead Instructors
  • Current First Aid and CPR certifications required for Assistant Instructors
  • Current River Rescue Certification required (Sierra Rescue, ACA Swiftwater, or equivalent)
  • ACA or BCU training for whitewater kayaking instruction required for Lead Instructors

Kayaking Season: We offer kayak courses from mid-May through mid-September

Availability:

  • Full-time, full season: mid-May through mid-September
  • Part-time, peak season: June - August

Many of our staff combine work in multiple disciplines and enjoy the variety of work throughout the season. For those with skills in paddle rafting, rowing, and/or kayaking, work is available from April through September by combining day trips, multi-day trips, and kayak instruction.

Wet Planet Perks:

  • Access to free trips and courses, and discounted professional training (river rescue courses, medical courses, ACA instructor course, etc.)
  • Cross-training for other job areas & opportunities within Wet Planet
  • Discounts on food, drinks, and merchandise in the Wet Planet store and espresso bar
  • Industry Pro Purchase Program
  • Free rafting and kayak courses for friends & family
  • Access to local housing options
  • Accrued Sick Leave

Compensation:

  • Between $153-195 per day, based on experience, training & certifications, and role (from apprentice to assisting or course lead).
  • Simple IRA savings plan option after 2 years

Combine your desire to play outside with your professional skillset and experience join our team!