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Full Time Kayak Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Full Time Kayak Guide information

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How much do full time kayak guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time kayak guide in the United States is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time kayak guide?

Full Time Kayak Guides are outdoor professionals who lead kayaking tours and excursions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of participants on the water. Their responsibilities typically include instructing guests on paddling techniques, providing safety briefings, guiding groups through various waterways, and sharing information about the local environment and wildlife. They are also trained in first aid and rescue procedures, and often help with equipment maintenance and trip logistics. Working full-time, these guides may lead multiple trips per week during the busy season and are expected to have strong paddling skills, local knowledge, and excellent customer service abilities.

What are some common challenges faced by full time kayak guides, and how can they be overcome?

Full time kayak guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, managing group safety, and adapting to varying skill levels among clients. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong communication, thorough safety briefings, and flexibility in trip planning. Staying updated on local weather forecasts, maintaining certification in first aid and rescue techniques, and fostering teamwork with other guides are essential strategies for ensuring both guest satisfaction and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time kayak guide?

A Full Time Kayak Guide needs strong paddling skills, water safety knowledge, and certifications such as CPR/First Aid and sometimes ACA or BCU kayaking instructor credentials. Familiarity with navigation tools, rescue equipment, and communication devices like radios is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, leadership, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help guides create positive and safe experiences for clients. These skills ensure both guest safety and satisfaction while maintaining high standards of outdoor adventure professionalism.

What is the difference between Full Time Kayak Guide vs Part Time Kayak Guide?

AspectFull Time Kayak GuidePart Time Kayak Guide
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekLess than 20 hours per week
CertificationsRequired CPR, First Aid, and guiding certificationsSame certifications, but may not be mandatory
Employment TypeFull-time employment with benefitsPart-time, often seasonal or casual
Work EnvironmentGuiding tours, safety briefings, customer serviceGuiding, assisting, and supporting tours

Full Time Kayak Guides work more hours, often with benefits, and are employed year-round or seasonally. Part Time Kayak Guides work fewer hours, usually seasonally or casually, with less job security. Both roles require similar certifications and involve guiding tours in outdoor water environments.

More about Full Time Kayak Guide jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Kayak Guide jobs?

The most popular types of Kayak Guide jobs are:

Infographic showing various Full Time Kayak Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,609 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Outdoor Education Program Instructor/Intern (Sept - Dec) & (Feb - May), YMCA Camp Classen

YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

Davis, OK โ€ข On-site

$525 - $625/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
YMCA Camp Classen, nestled in the picturesque Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma, is seeking enthusiastic individuals with a passion for the outdoors and youth development. Located just over an hour from Oklahoma City and within reach of the DFW Metroplex, our 2200-acre camp offers a unique setting for outdoor adventures. From lakes and waterfalls to diverse ecosystems, Camp Classen provides an immersive experience for students and staff alike.
As an Outdoor Education Program Instructor, you'll guide 5th & 6th-grade students from Oklahoma and North Texas. You'll lead exploratory hikes, teach wilderness living skills, and engage them in hands-on outdoor education activities like primitive fire making, aquatic habitats, atlatls, team building, tomahawks, and more, that bring their classrooms to life in the great outdoors. With all training provided and certifications available, you will play a vital role in shaping the students experiences and fostering a love for nature.
Are you ready to help us make a difference in our students' lives? Don't delay start your camp professional adventure today!
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Strong Communication skills
  • Enthusiasm and experience teaching and/or leading elementary and/or middle school youth.
  • Good judgment, flexibility, and the ability to work independently
  • Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.
  • Ability to work and live in a small, rural community.
  • Ability to lead hikes and other outdoor activities
  • Ability to relate to individuals and groups in a warm, positive manner
  • Willingness to take on varied tasks that support the program
  • Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions

PREFERRED
  • Valid Driver's License and clean driving record
  • Lifeguard certification or willing to obtain upon hire
  • Kayak and/or SUP certification or willing to obtain upon hire
  • Rock climbing/Belay certification or willing to obtain upon hire
  • CPR & First Aid certification or willing to obtain upon hire.
  • Experience with team-building curriculum
  • Understanding of basic natural history and environmental education concepts
  • Degree or Major in Education, Recreation or relevant experiences.

EMPLOYMENT DATES
  • Fall season Instructors typically begin around the end of August and continue until mid - December.
  • Spring season Instructors typically begin February and continue through the end of May.
  • Summer opportunities are also available

NOTE: Exact start dates are determined prior to each season as group contracts are finalized.
COMPENSATION AND AMENITIES
  • $525.00 - $625.00 per week DOE. Additional compensation for weekends
  • Pay is every two weeks keeping with pay schedule of YMCA of Greater OKC
  • Staff shirts are provided
  • Semi private housing
  • Meals are provided when dining hall is open.
  • All training certification costs and time are paid for.
  • Free laundry facilities and wifi
  • Professional advancement and growth opportunities at camp and with the YMCA OKC Association.

If you want to learn more about our programs and mission, visit our website: https://campclassen.org/
We invite you to get to know YMCA CAMP CLASSEN better by contacting us today.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary Description
$525.00 - $625.00 per week plus room and board