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Kayak Guide Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

TeamHealth

Jackson, MI - Physician - FT

Southfield, MI · On-site

$256K - $304K/yr

Our innovative population health data reports will guide you towards optimal and timely care for ... For the outdoor lovers - take a hike, kayak, or fish. The fun is always on in Jackson, Michigan.

TeamHealth

Jackson, MI - Physician - FT

Southfield, MI · On-site

$256K - $304K/yr

Our innovative population health data reports will guide you towards optimal and timely care for ... For the outdoor lovers - take a hike, kayak, or fish. The fun is always on in Jackson, Michigan.

All JobsKayak Guide JobsKayak Guide Jobs in Michigan

Kayak Guide information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do kayak guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for kayak guide in Michigan is $14.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $13.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Kayak Guides during group excursions, and how can they be managed?

Kayak Guides often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among participants, unpredictable weather conditions, and ensuring group safety on the water. Managing these challenges involves thorough pre-trip briefings, assessing each participant's abilities, and adapting routes or plans as needed. Guides must remain vigilant, communicate clearly, and be prepared to handle emergencies, making strong leadership and quick decision-making essential in this role.

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

To thrive as a Kayak Guide, you need strong paddling proficiency, knowledge of water safety, and often certifications in first aid and CPR. Familiarity with navigation tools, rescue equipment, and sometimes swiftwater rescue certification are typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help guides manage groups and respond to challenges on the water. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring client safety, providing memorable experiences, and handling emergencies effectively.

What are kayak guides?

Kayak guides are outdoor professionals who lead individuals or groups on kayaking trips, ensuring safety, providing instruction, and sharing knowledge about the local environment and wildlife. They are responsible for planning routes, teaching paddling techniques, and responding to emergencies on the water. Kayak guides often work for tour companies, outdoor adventure programs, or parks, and must possess strong paddling skills, first aid training, and excellent communication abilities.

What is the difference between Kayak Guide vs Canoe Guide?

AspectKayak GuideCanoe Guide
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, guiding certificationsCPR, First Aid, guiding certifications
Work EnvironmentRivers, lakes, coastal watersRivers, lakes, coastal waters
Industry UsageTourism, outdoor recreationTourism, outdoor recreation
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both Kayak Guides and Canoe Guides work in similar outdoor environments, often requiring similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. They serve in the tourism and outdoor recreation industries, guiding clients on water adventures. The main difference lies in the equipment used: kayak guides specialize in single or double kayaks, while canoe guides focus on canoes. Understanding these distinctions helps travelers choose the right guide for their water activity experience.

What are popular job titles related to Kayak Guide jobs in Michigan? For Kayak Guide jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kayak Guide jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Kayak Guide jobs in Michigan are:
Kayak Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kayak Guide job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,294 per year, or $14.1 per hour.
Outdoor Education Program Instructor

Outdoor Education Program Instructor

YMCA of Greater Flint

Fenton, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

The Outdoor Education Program Instructor is responsible teaching/leading all activities and programs for groups attending Outdoor Education and Group Adventure Programs. The position will have a direct impact on the quality or programing for all guests of camp. YMCA Camp Copneconic will have a satisfied and growing participant base, quality programs and services, sound financial position and a positive community image.
General Function: Lead activities for groups attending camp for all Outdoor Education and Group Adventure programs. The instructor will also perform cleaning upon departure of groups
Entry Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent. Desire to work with children in an outdoor setting.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead activities for groups attending camp for all Outdoor Education and Group Adventure programs. The instructor will also perform cleaning upon departure of groups
  • Lead and teach activities as written in the Instructors Guide.
  • Attend meals and perform duties at the dish window as scheduled.
  • Host groups as scheduled.
  • Report equipment and supply needs to the Outdoor Education Program Director.
  • Clean housing and program facilities & areas after group departures.
  • Assist in teaching and training Level 1 Instructors in programs as needed.
  • Report maintenance concerns to Outdoor Education Program Director.

Child Abuse Prevention:
  • Adhere to policies related to boundaries with children.
  • Attend required abuse risk management training.
  • Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising children.
  • Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
  • Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.

Requirements
  • Speak clearly
  • Speak fluent English
  • Read & write English
  • Bend/stoop/twist
  • Push/pull
  • Climb/balance on ladders
  • Use cleaning chemicals
  • Use pool chemicals
  • Lift over 50lbs
  • See clearly
  • Work in an outdoor setting over 6 hours/day
  • Work in air-conditioned area
  • Work in non-air conditioned area
  • Work outdoors with pollens
  • Work in sunlight
  • Work in high humidity
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, and outside weather conditions.

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