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Kayaking Guide Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Kayaking Guide information

See Portland, OR salary details

$7

$18

$31

How much do kayaking guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for kayaking guide in Portland, OR is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Kayaking Guides?

Kayaking Guides are outdoor professionals who lead individuals or groups on kayaking trips, ensuring safety, providing instruction, and sharing knowledge about the local environment. They are responsible for planning routes, supplying equipment, and teaching proper paddling techniques. Kayaking Guides also often share information about wildlife, natural features, and local history, making the experience educational as well as enjoyable. Their primary goal is to create a safe, memorable, and fun adventure for all participants.

What are some common challenges faced by Kayaking Guides, and how can they be managed effectively?

Kayaking Guides often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, varying skill levels among clients, and ensuring group safety on the water. Managing these challenges involves thorough pre-trip briefings, continuous monitoring of environmental conditions, and adapting plans as needed to prioritize safety. Effective communication and strong situational awareness are essential, as is maintaining certifications in first aid and water rescue. Building experience through regular training helps guides handle unexpected situations confidently.

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

To thrive as a Kayaking Guide, you need strong paddling proficiency, water safety knowledge, and typically a relevant certification such as ACA or BCU. Familiarity with GPS devices, rescue equipment, and first aid/CPR certification are commonly required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and crisis management skills help guides effectively instruct and reassure diverse groups. These abilities are vital for ensuring client safety, providing memorable experiences, and responding calmly to emergencies in dynamic outdoor environments.

What is the difference between Kayaking Guide vs Canoe Guide?

AspectKayaking GuideCanoe Guide
CertificationsFirst Aid, CPR, paddling certificationsFirst Aid, CPR, paddling certifications
Work EnvironmentRivers, lakes, calm or whitewaterRivers, lakes, calm or whitewater
Industry UsageAdventure tourism, outdoor recreationAdventure tourism, outdoor recreation
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both kayaking guides and canoe guides work in outdoor water environments, often in adventure tourism. They require similar certifications and serve similar industries. The main difference lies in the type of watercraft they specialize in—kayaking guides focus on kayaks, while canoe guides work with canoes. Their roles are comparable, with overlapping skills and work settings, making them common points of comparison for those interested in water-based guiding careers.

What job categories do people searching Kayaking Guide jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Kayaking Guide jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Kayaking Guide job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,092 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

DPT / Doctor of Physical Therapy - Inpatient / Outpatient

MLee Medical Employment

Portland, OR • On-site

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Transform Lives Through Movement: Join Our Dedicated Inpatient Physical Therapy Team in Portland, Oregon
Overview
Imagine having the opportunity to help someone reclaim their life - taking their initial steps after surgery, regaining their independence post-stroke, or rediscovering their voice following an illness. As a Physical Therapist, you are not just facilitating recovery; you are restoring dignity, hope, and movement during some of life's most challenging moments. Here, you'll embark on this vital work in a vibrant city that perfectly balances career fulfillment with an extraordinary lifestyle.
We are excited to welcome a compassionate and experienced Physical Therapist to our dynamic team in Portland - a city renowned for its welcoming spirit and unparalleled natural beauty. If you're ready to make a profound impact on people's lives and become part of a collaborative and inspiring community, this is your calling.
Description
  • Conduct thorough evaluations of patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings, developing tailored treatment plans to meet their unique needs.
  • Implement physical therapy interventions to enhance mobility, strength, balance, and overall functional abilities.
  • Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including nurses, physicians, and rehabilitation specialists, to maximize patient outcomes.
  • Provide education to patients and their families about therapeutic goals, care plans, and home exercise regimes.
  • Maintain detailed documentation of treatment evaluations, interventions, and patient progress, adhering to hospital standards and regulations.
  • Engage in team rounds and collaborative meetings to ensure comprehensive and coordinated patient care.
Education
  • Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Certifications
  • Must hold a valid state license as a Physical Therapist.
  • CPR certification is preferred.
  • Additional specialized certifications (such as geriatric or neurological) are advantageous but not mandatory.
Skills
  • Prior experience is highly preferred.
  • Adept at treating patients with intricate medical histories and mobility challenges.
  • Exceptional communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Comfortable utilizing digital documentation and clinical charting systems.
Benefits
  • Attractive compensation package.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Professional development support with continuing education and licensure reimbursement.
  • Flexible scheduling and generous paid time off.
  • Encouraging team culture with ample opportunities for professional growth.

Your Daily Experience Awaits
Each day is filled with new challenges, and each moment presents an opportunity to make a difference. As a trusted partner in recovery, whether you are assisting a patient in regaining stability post-operation or guiding someone through the arduous journey of stroke rehabilitation, you play a pivotal role in their healing process.
This hands-on, impactful work combines clinical expertise with an empathetic approach. You will assess individual needs, implement specific treatment strategies, and adapt your methods as patients advance towards their recovery goals. As an integral part of our collaborative care team, you'll influence discharge plans and ensure a smooth transition home for your patients.
What you do here holds immediate significance; the connections you forge during these formative recovery stages are life-altering.
Why Portland, Oregon is the Ideal Setting
While your role may evolve within the walls of a facility, your life as a professional in Portland is enriched by the breathtaking landscape, diverse culture, and thriving community outside those walls. Known for its lush greenery, vibrant food scene, and an ethos of creativity, Portland is the kind of city where personal and professional growth go hand in hand.
Picture locals hiking scenic trails, savoring artisanal coffee, and embracing the rich variety of local music and art. From the bustling downtown markets to hidden gems in surrounding neighborhoods, you'll find the energy of a city that celebrates individuality and innovation. The absence of a state income tax, along with affordable housing options, means that you can enjoy life's perks without breaking the bank. Portland is a place that encourages exploration, whether it's through enjoying its famous food truck cuisine or kayaking on the Willamette River.
This is a city where healthcare professionals are not just employees, but valued members of a community that fosters connection and growth.
The Ideal Candidate
Beyond skills and qualifications, we seek individuals who understand the true essence of healing. You are someone who recognizes that movement is not just about physical therapy, but also about emotional and soulful recovery. If you believe in the power of kindness, the strength of connection, and the importance of resilience in recovery, you might be just who we are looking for.
We welcome all levels of experience - whether you are beginning your journey or are an established professional - as long as you are committed to evidence-based care, collaboration, and compassionate service. Let's connect and explore how your journey can align with ours.
Make a Impact While Advancing Your Career
This isn't merely a career - it's a calling. As a Physical Therapist based in Portland, you will be surrounded by an enthusiastic team of fellow clinicians, embraced by a supportive workplace culture, and invigorated by the dynamic spirit of the city. Together, we aim to elevate the standard of care while nurturing professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Join us in helping others reclaim their movement while simultaneously empowering your own journey toward professional excellence and satisfaction. Become part of a team and a community that inspires you to thrive.