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Kayak Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canoe/Kayak River Crew

Silver Point, TN ยท On-site

$9.50 - $12.50/hr

Canoe/Kayak River Crew: Our Canoe/Kayak River Crew will assist with loading and unloading canoes ... guiding river trips and waterfall excursions. We are looking for team members who will follow ...

This means we kayak among icebergs, travel to hidden waterfalls, snorkel with sea lions, dive with ... The Guide is supervised by the Expedition Leader and Lead Guide and work in teams of 2-7 members ...

This means we kayak among icebergs, travel to hidden waterfalls, snorkel with sea lions, dive with ... The Guide is supervised by the Expedition Leader and Lead Guide and work in teams of 2-7 members ...

This means we kayak among icebergs, travel to hidden waterfalls, snorkel with sea lions, dive with ... The Guide is supervised by the Expedition Leader and Lead Guide and work in teams of 2-7 members ...

This means we kayak among icebergs, travel to hidden waterfalls, snorkel with sea lions, dive with ... The Guide is supervised by the Expedition Leader and Lead Guide and work in teams of 2-7 members ...

This means we kayak among icebergs, travel to hidden waterfalls, snorkel with sea lions, dive with ... The Guide is supervised by the Expedition Leader and work in teams of 2-7 members, along with the ...

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Kayak Guide information

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$9

$16

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How much do kayak guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 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.

More about Kayak Guide jobs
What cities are hiring for Kayak Guide jobs? Cities with the most Kayak Guide job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Kayak Guide jobs? The most popular types of Kayak Guide jobs are:
What states have the most Kayak Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Kayak Guide jobs include:
Infographic showing various Kayak Guide job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, and 86% 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.

Whitewater Kayak Instructor

U S National Whitewater Center

Charlotte, NC โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Whitewater Kayak Instructors at the Whitewater Center are core members of the paddle sports team. Teaching students from a variety of demographics in private, group, and multi-day settings, Instructors will impart efficient techniques and convey their passion for the sport. Whitewater Kayak Instructors are part-time, seasonal, hourly employees and report directly to the Paddlesports Manager.

Responsibilities

  • Facilitate whitewater kayak instruction for individuals and small groups with an informative and enjoyable approach while proactively managing the inherent risks involved with whitewater activities.
  • Provide constructive, meaningful feedback to students in order to foster skill acquisition and long-term paddler development.
  • Utilize differentiated, student-centered instruction techniques, exercise useful and purposeful practices, engage in instructional session planning, and develop performance assessments.
  • Execute all safety and operational processes involved in kayak instruction for the Class II-IV artificial whitewater course.
  • Practice thorough communication with the paddle sports team, and aid where needed to ensure guest service standards and efficient operation.
  • Continue to improve and develop personally as a whitewater paddler.
  • Maintain accurate knowledge of activities, products, and services offered by the Whitewater Center.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • A minimum of 2 years of experience working for a whitewater outfitter within a kayak instruction program, a guiding program, or another similar experience.
  • Current First Aid, CPR & AED Certification โ€“ courses are offered by the Whitewater Center.
  • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and during other Whitewater events as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

  • ACA Whitewater Kayak Instructor certification preferred.

Physical Demands

  • Must be able to safely self-transport over uneven terrain or in a confined space.
  • Must be able to work outdoors for sustained periods of time in all weather and environmental conditions.
  • Must be able to lift and carry at least 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to instruct and/or guide a minimum of 3 whitewater classes per day.
  • Must be able to perform challenging maneuvers confidently and consistently in Class II-IV whitewater.
  • Must be able to rescue students in Class II-IV whitewater.
  • Must be able to bend, stand, lean, and kneel on a regular basis and for sustained periods of time.
  • Must be able to work in shared spaced with other employees and customers.
  • All positions at Whitewater require employees to report and work onsite at Whitewater locations.

Benefits

  • Access to the Whitewater Centerโ€™s pass activities
  • Staff discount program and pro deals
  • 401K

Overview of Department

The Outdoor Activities Department is responsible for leading and supporting experiences in a variety of water and land-based sports. The department also instructs guests through the Whitewater Centerโ€™s Outdoor School and Summer Camps. Outdoor Activities employees engage with guests through an assortment of pass activities and help create memorable outdoor experiences.

Working at Whitewater

Whitewaterโ€™s mission is rooted in the belief that we all share a genetic code that compels us to play outside and share these experiences with others. This mission is accomplished through promoting access and opportunities to play outside and bring people together. Our approach is simple: Make it compelling and easy to engage with nature and invite others to join.

Legal Disclosures

The Whitewater Center provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, the Whitewater Center complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

NOTICE: Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. The Whitewater Center is an employer that participates in the E-Verify program.