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Kayak Guide Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

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Kayak Guide information

See Oklahoma salary details

$9

$14

$20

How much do kayak guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for kayak guide in Oklahoma is $14.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $13.99 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 Oklahoma? For Kayak Guide jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kayak Guide jobs in Oklahoma look for? The top searched job categories for Kayak Guide jobs in Oklahoma are:
Kayak Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kayak Guide job openings in Oklahoma as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,033 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

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

YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

Davis, OK • On-site

$525 - $625/wk

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

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 

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