1

Aca Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Aca Instructor information

See salary details

$6

$21

$39

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.
2026 Whitewater Kayak & Canoe Instructors

2026 Whitewater Kayak & Canoe Instructors

Zoar Outdoor

Charlemont, MA โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Whitewater Kayak & Canoe Instructors Positions Available
Our committed instructional staff of paddling professionals teach because they love it. Through dynamic instruction and flexible programming we make paddling accessible to a broad spectrum of students. We provide basic curriculum frameworks and allow individual instructors to teach according to student needs, the environment, and their own strengths. We use cutting edge teaching methods, equipment and technology to provide an experience that represents an excellent value.
Zoar Outdoor is looking for energetic, outdoorsy individuals for the position of Whitewater Instructor. The responsibilities include teaching whitewater clinics, driving, equipment maintenance and additional work is available providing expert customer service in our retail operations.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned whitewater professional able to paddle in up to class III whitewater, able to effectively teach and loves to learn. We require ACA certification so for those who are inspiring instructors we offer ACA training for candidates with requisite paddling and soft skills. Course reimbursement is available. Please note that successful completion of a certification course does not guarantee employment with Zoar Outdoor.

JOB DESCRIPTION - INSTRUCTOR

The Instructor is responsible for the day's clinic activity. Instructor's maintains the highest standards for customer service, and works to promote and maintain Zoar Outdoor's position as a leader in whitewater instruction.


An instructor teaches the skills required in the clinic description. The instructor must evaluate the student's skill level and make sound judgments regarding the match of student to the clinic. The instructor also manages group dynamics and the effects it has on the individual student. Each instructor needs to understand and demonstrate rescue techniques. Instructors report to the Paddlesports Manager.


Specific Job Requirements are:

*Attend Up to 4 days of new instructor training.

*Maintain current CPR and First Aid certifications.

*Minimum age of 18 years.

*For whitewater instructors, maintain current ACA certifications.

*Arrive at work on time in order to attend the instructor's morning meeting.

*Arrive at work with the necessary equipment for a day on the river. To instruct at Zoar you must provide your own personal equipment. Zoar will provide the equipment for the students. If extra equipment is available, instructors may use it on the clinic.

*Arrive at work with a positive and professional attitude and appearance (staff shirts, appropriate footwear).

*Organize equipment before and after trips, noting problems on the maintenance sheet.

*Complete all work assignments which include but are not limited to: fitting students with the appropriate gear, teaching the specific clinic, cleaning dishes, returning equipment to the appropriate place and preparing trip paperwork to the satisfaction of the Director of Instruction.

*Prepare end-of-the-day paperwork including trip report, and accident report, if applicable.

*At the end of each clinic provide an opportunity for guests to evaluate the clinic and receive additional clinic information.

*Be able to bend at the knees, twist at the waist, lift and carry heavy objects overhead -- over steep, rough, slippery terrain.

*Be able to swim proficiently in swift-moving whitewater (whitewater instructors.)

*Provide exceptional service to Zoar guests both on and off the river.

*Look for better ways to serve the guests and the company. Bring new ideas to management if they involve policy changes.

*Communicate well with managers, program directors and co-workers and behave in a professional manner at all times.

*Maintain a good sense of humor and a cooperative attitude in dealing with co-workers and guests.

*Maintain the cleanliness of the facilities both around the base and at the school.

*Successfully instruct in a manner consistent with training and to the satisfaction of the Paddlesports Manager.

*Properly complete a timesheet at the end of the workday.