1

Canoe Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Canoe Association (ACA) Kayak Instructor Certification * Strong swimming ability required * Lifeguard, CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required (or ability to obtain upon hire)

... Canoe Association Kayak Instructor Certification; • Interact with persons of all ages in a positive, professional, encouraging, and informative manner; • Lift 60 pounds, load and unload a kayak ...

Maintain 1st aid and CPR certification and American Canoe Association Kayak Instructor Certification; Interact with persons of all ages in a positive, professional, encouraging, and informative ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Canoe Instructor information

See salary details

$9

$21

$36

How much do canoe instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for canoe instructor in the United States is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Canoe Instructor vs Kayak Instructor?

AspectCanoe InstructorKayak Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Canoe Safety CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Kayak Safety Certifications
Work EnvironmentRivers, lakes, outdoor water venuesRivers, lakes, outdoor water venues
Industry UsageRecreational, outdoor education, summer campsRecreational, outdoor education, summer camps

Both Canoe and Kayak Instructors require similar certifications and work in outdoor water environments. The main difference lies in the type of watercraft they teach: canoes versus kayaks. While their roles overlap in outdoor education and recreational settings, their specific skills and safety training are tailored to each watercraft type.

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

To thrive as a Canoe Instructor, you need strong paddling proficiency, water safety knowledge, and typically certifications such as ACA (American Canoe Association) Instructor or equivalent. Familiarity with rescue techniques, canoeing equipment, and GPS or communication devices is often required. Outstanding communication, patience, and leadership skills help instructors effectively teach participants and maintain group safety. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable learning experiences and help prevent accidents on the water.

What are Canoe Instructors?

Canoe Instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups how to safely and effectively paddle canoes. They provide instruction on paddling techniques, safety procedures, equipment use, and navigation skills. Instructors may work with beginners or advanced paddlers, and often lead guided trips or courses on lakes, rivers, or other bodies of water. Their goal is to help participants develop confidence, competence, and a respect for water safety. Certifications from organizations like the American Canoe Association are often required.

What are some common challenges a Canoe Instructor faces when teaching beginners, and how can they be effectively managed?

Canoe Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels within a group, initial fear of water among some participants, and ensuring safety while maintaining an enjoyable learning environment. To manage these, instructors typically use clear communication, demonstrate techniques in stages, and provide individualized attention when needed. Building trust with participants, fostering teamwork, and maintaining vigilance about weather and water conditions are essential for both learning and safety.
More about Canoe Instructor jobs
What states have the most Canoe Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Canoe Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Canoe Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,102 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Lifeguards/Water Safety Instructors (WSI)

Lifeguards/Water Safety Instructors (WSI)

Town of Andover

Andover, MA • On-site

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description Under general direction of Full Time Recreation Staff Pomps Pond Directors and Head Guards. Work is available as Pomps Pond Lifeguard and Swim Instructor. Lifeguards help ensure the safety of swimmers and perform general maintenance duties.

Pomps Pond is located off Abbot Street and is part of the Recreation Park complex. The Pond comprises 16 of the 62 acres in the Park. The Pond offers a spacious sunbathing area, recreational swimming, shaded picnic grounds, children's playground area, volleyball net, sailboat, canoe, stand up paddle board and kayak rentals, bathrooms, showers, and a concession stand.

Red Cross certified swim lessons are offered to the community. . Responsibilities Maintain safe conditions in and around the Pond.

Ensures the buildings and grounds are always neat, clean and presentable. Work with other Lifeguards, Head Lifeguards, Directors and Rec Staff to implement the developed programs. WSIs, in addition to the previously stated responsibilities, also help perform swim testing.

Qualifications Ages 16 and older. Must possess Lifeguard Certification. Must possess CPR & First Aid Certification.

Applicants must possess a current Lifeguard Certification, First Aid Certification, and CPR Certification. Certification in Water Safety Instruction is a plus. NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES Desire and ability to work with children and work outdoors.

Availability for the nine weeks that Pomps Pond is open (June - August). Outstanding aquatic skills and proficiency. Ability to demonstrate a pleasing personality and positive/assertive character traits.

Ability to communicate effectively with children and adults. Ability to remain alert, attentive, and responsible. Ability to be a team player.

Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations. Skill in the application of lifeguarding surveillance and rescue techniques. Ability to prepare routine administrative paperwork.

Knowledge of CPR and emergency medical procedures. Ability to follow routine verbal and written instructions. Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.

2019 While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, stand, sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and must aide in the rescue of swimmers struggling to stay afloat.

Supplemental Information Maintains constant surveillance of patrons in the facility; acts immediately and appropriately to secure safety of patrons in the event of emergency. Assists with daily swim test procedures and swim lesson sessions. Provides emergency care and treatment as required until the arrival of emergency medical services.

Presents professional appearance and attitude at all times, and maintains a high standard of customer service. Performs various maintenance duties as directed to maintain a clean and safe facility. Prepares and maintains appropriate activity reports.

Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to carry and load supplies Lift/assist patrons when required. Identify and respond to hazards.

Work with different age and skill levels. Must be able to work outside in extreme conditions (heat/noise, etc.). Assist in the case of an emergency

Possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of patrons. Hours will vary between 20-40 per week during the hours of 9:30am-7:30pm, which includes early evenings and weekends. Individuals are expected to be available and commit to employment for the entire beach season (mid June through late August).

Starting rate is $17.50 - 19.50 per hour for Lifeguards and $19.75-20.25 per hour for WSIs. Must be 16 years of age or older. The Town of Andover is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The Town is committed to advancing its workforce culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion.