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Kayak Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... 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 trailer, drive a ...

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 ...

Seasonal Watersports Instructors for spring/summer 2026 12.60 per hour / Real Living Wage Employer ... RYA or UKCC level 1 in Kayak & Canoe qualifications or equivalent required We're seeking ...

Seasonal Watersports Instructors for spring/summer 2026 12.60 per hour / Real Living Wage Employer ... RYA or UKCC level 1 in Kayak & Canoe qualifications or equivalent required We're seeking ...

Free Paddle Board and Kayak Rentals at the Boating Center Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Explore Lake Michigan in a kayak or on a paddleboard at no cost. Discounted Rates at ...

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Kayak Instructor information

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$32.5K

$36.3K

$39K

How much do kayak instructor jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for kayak instructor in the United States is $36,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $37,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Kayak Instructor, you need strong paddling technique, water safety knowledge, and typically certifications like ACA or BCU instructor credentials. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid/CPR training, and kayak-specific teaching tools is essential. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership help instructors effectively teach students of varying skill levels and respond calmly in challenging situations. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable learning experiences and help maintain a high standard of instruction on the water.

What are some common challenges faced by kayak instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Kayak instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting lessons to varying skill levels, ensuring participant safety in changing weather conditions, and maintaining group engagement. To address these, instructors typically use flexible teaching methods, conduct thorough safety briefings, and stay updated on local water conditions. Effective communication and strong situational awareness are key to managing group dynamics and responding quickly to any issues that arise during sessions.

What does a kayak instructor do?

A kayak instructor teaches individuals or groups how to safely and effectively paddle and maneuver a kayak. They provide instruction on techniques, safety protocols, and equipment use, often adapting lessons based on skill level and water conditions. Instructors may lead guided trips, assess risks, and ensure that all participants are following proper safety guidelines. Their goal is to help students build confidence on the water, improve their kayaking skills, and foster a respect for aquatic environments.

What is the difference between Kayak Instructor vs Canoe Instructor?

AspectKayak InstructorCanoe Instructor
CertificationsWater safety, CPR, kayak-specific trainingWater safety, CPR, canoe-specific training
Work EnvironmentRivers, lakes, coastal watersRivers, lakes, calm waters
Industry UsageOutdoor recreation, adventure tourismOutdoor recreation, adventure tourism

Both Kayak Instructors and Canoe Instructors require water safety certifications and work in outdoor aquatic environments. The main difference lies in the type of watercraft they teach: kayaks versus canoes. While their skills overlap, each role specializes in different paddling techniques and equipment, catering to different customer preferences and skill levels.

More about Kayak Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Kayak Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Kayak Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Kayak Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Kayak Instructor jobs include:

Eco-Art Educator

Artist Boat

Galveston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Artist Boat is a 501(c)(3) organization in Galveston, TX dedicated to promoting awareness and preservation of coastal margins and marine ecosystems through science and art.
Job Description
Job Description: Artist Boat, Inc.
Title: Eco-Art Educator - TWO POSITIONS AVAILABLE, one for a candidate who possesses scientific literacy and research skills and one for a candidate who possesses visual art skills.
FLSA Status: Salaried Exempt
Reports to: Program Manager
Growth Potential: Coordinator in 2 years
Essential Function: Primary duty is to interpret habitats, ecosystems, science, and the environment through the disciplines of science and art for people of all ages while engaging in Eco-Art experiences with Artist Boat. Educator must be able to clearly and enthusiastically use the arts as the primary discipline to convey knowledge and engage participants.
Key Responsibilities:
• Be able to work with a team member who is a specialist in the visual arts or environmental science and is passionate about marine biology and environmental education;
• Present high level art skills in classroom and field contexts to co-workers and participants;
• Learn and properly present science skills and knowledge to students and adults in order to facilitate the creation of works of art interpreting the coastal margins and marine ecosystems of the Gulf of Mexico. This can be done in outdoor classrooms via kayak and vessel, on walking tours, on campus habitats, in the classroom, and during habitat restoration events;
• Possess or develop a deep understanding of the region's natural history, its flora and fauna, and watercolor painting techniques;
• 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 manner;
• Lift 60 pounds, load and unload a kayak trailer, drive a standard transmission, trailer vehicles, spend 8 hours outside on a regular basis;
• Be able to lead kayak trips with 10-15 participants as a solo guide, and trips of up to 27 participants with one other Artist Boat Educator.
• Clean and maintain all equipment used for programs;
• Be able to design and deliver hands-on art activities for Eco-Art Workshops, Adventures, Residencies, and other programs;
• Be able to assist in installation of large scale public works and restored habitats or nativescaping;
• Enthusiastically acquire knowledge about native flora, fauna, and ecosystems in order to properly identify species and assist in interpretation of habitats;
• Represent Artist Boat and the mission of Artist Boat during events and in the community;
• Be willing and able to drive to destinations throughout the Galveston Bay region to deliver programming, be willing to work weekends, and be willing to fully commit to the mission of Artist Boat;
• Fully understand the different benefits and challenges associated with non-profit work;
• Must pass background check and be fingerprinted to serve the 7,500 youth that Artist Boat works with annually;
• Be able to take on duties and tasks as assigned and/or further implement processes that improve the work environment.
Qualifications
Requirements: Bachelor of Science or Fine Arts;1-3 years experience in arts, outdoors, informal science education and/or environmental education. Must want to pursue a permanent career in environmental education through mission-driven organizations, want to assist in the growth of organizations and themselves, and want to learn about local ecosystems through individual studies and experiences. There is strong potential for growth and advancement over a two to five year period for committed and contributing employees. All Eco-Art Educators have the potential to become program coordinators and managers within two to three years. Salary is commensurate with qualifications. Benefits include long-term disability insurance, health insurance, and SIMPLE IRA for all full-time employees.
To Apply: Please send cover letter, resume, copy of transcript, and three letters from professional references to Amanda Rinehart, Education Program Manager via snail mail at 2627 Avenue O, Galveston, Texas 77550. Applications Due by June 17th, 2016. Interviews will commence June 20 - 27th. Ready to fill position immediately and anticipated start date July 5th, 2016. Artist Boat is a small and growing not for profit organization that needs dedicated and contributing employees who are personally committed to the environment and seek growth and leadership opportunities and challenges in order to pursue a life long career in environmental education and conservation. Please do not call or email the Executive Director. Each applicant will be emailed a notification that his or her full application has been received. Applications not containing all requested documents will not be reviewed or notified of receipt.
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Videos To Watch
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