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Kayaking Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brevard Zoo

Treetop Trek Guide

Melbourne, FL

Zipline Guide Status: Part-Time; FLSA Hourly Non-Exempt Department: Conservation Learning Reports ... kayaking through the Africa area, giraffe feeding, and rhinoceros and various other animal ...

Hyatt

Outdoor Adventure Guide - Full-Time

Austin, TX · On-site

The Outdoor Adventure Guide must have an interest in and knowledge about the natural world ... Trained or willing to be trained at facilitating stand up paddleboard and kayaking * Knowledge of ...

New

Summit Bechtel Reserve

Whitewater River Guide

Glen Jean, WV · On-site

$1.6K - $2.1K/mo

Key ResponsibilitiesConduct a gear shakedown / inventory with guestsProvide whitewater kayaking instruction and ensure rafter safety, providing medical care as neededPack and load food / equipment in ...

Boy Scouts of America

Whitewater River Guide

Glen Jean, WV · On-site

$11.75 - $13.50/hr

Provide whitewater kayaking instruction and ensure rafter safety, providing medical care as needed * Pack and load food / equipment in trucks and boats * Potential act as "Sweep" boater and be ...

Ambgroup

Big Creek and the mighty Yellowstone River offer fishing, rafting, and kayaking opportunities ... Lead safe, engaging, and informative outdoor experiences including guided day hikes, wildlife ...

Ambgroup

Big Creek and the mighty Yellowstone River offer fishing, rafting, and kayaking opportunities ... Lead guided hikes, recreational activities, wildlife viewing, and fly-fishing experiences.

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Kayaking Guide information

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$7

$17

$29

How much do kayaking guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for kayaking guide in the United States is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kayaking guide?

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 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 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 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.

More about Kayaking Guide jobs

What cities are hiring for Kayaking Guide jobs?

Cities with the most Kayaking Guide job openings:

What states have the most Kayaking Guide jobs?

States with the most job openings for Kayaking Guide jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Kayaking Guide jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Kayaking Guide jobs are:

Kayaking Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kayaking Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,919 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Treetop Trek Guide

Brevard Zoo

Melbourne, FL

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist guests with completing aerial courses and ensure their safety during the experience.

  • Conduct pre-tour safety orientations, fit guests with harnesses and helmets, and perform safety inspections.

  • Perform guest retrievals, rescues, and braking as necessary to maintain safety on the courses.

Job description

Position: Zipline Guide
Status: Part-Time; FLSA Hourly Non-Exempt
Department: Conservation Learning
Reports to: Manager, Attractions amp; Adventure Learning
POSITION OVERVIEW
Located along the Space Coast in Melbourne, Florida, the Brevard Zoo is an AZA-accredited facility with a diverse collection of over 900 animals representing nearly 200 species. It is also home to the Sea Turtle Healing Center for rehabilitation of wild marine turtles. Brevard Zoo is well-known for its strong conservation ethic and unique attractions, such as kayaking through the Africa area, giraffe feeding, and rhinoceros and various other animal encounters.
The Zipline Guide is responsible for ensuring the safety of Treetop Trek guests while providing exceptional experience on Brevard Zoo’s aerial adventure courses. This position provides informative zipline tour experiences that help guests create unforgettable memories and a new connection to Florida’s outdoors.
QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED:
  • Able to pass First Aid/CPR certification plus Trauma certification
PREFERRED/DESIRED:
  • Previous experience in customer service roles
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Complete daily operating procedures of the aerial courses.
  • Assist guests with completing aerial courses.
  • Properly and correctly fit guests for harness and helmets.
  • Conduct pre-tour safety orientation for all guests.
  • Supervise guests on the aerial courses to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests.
  • Perform guest retrievals, rescues, and breaking as necessary.
  • Create learning experiences so guests can learn about Florida’s ecosystems, Brevard Zoo’s animals, and Brevard Zoo’s mission.
  • Provide excellent customer service.
  • Complete inspections of all course components and gear.
  • Assist with course maintenance as needed.
  • Attend department meetings and training as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to accurately and clearly communicate verbal information.
  • Comfortable with heights and ziplines.
  • Ability to properly tie required knots.
  • Capable of handling stressful situations and react in an effective and calm manner.
  • Attention to detail to ensure safety.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
(M) Medium Work
Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects as needed to move objects.
Employees must be physically fit. Must be able to stand for long periods at a time. Must have clear vision, ability to frequently use hands (finger dexterity), and ability to properly wear a helmet plus harness for long periods of time.
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS/HAZARDS:
Outdoor working environment with exposure to extreme heat and weather conditions. Requires frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and walking.
WORK SCHEDULE:
May be required to work weekends and nights as necessary.
The above information in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the Zoo’s policies on evaluation of personnel.
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Statement
East Coast Zoological Society of Florida, Inc., dba Brevard Zoo, is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
We do not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any aspect of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, training, transfer, termination, or any other terms and conditions of employment.
Employees and applicants are encouraged to report any concerns regarding discrimination or harassment, and retaliation for reporting such concerns is strictly prohibited.
Brevard Zoo is committed to an inclusive environment where employees are encouraged to be their authentic selves. We value the diverse qualities, perspectives, and experiences of all individuals. Join us in sharing the joy of nature to help people and wildlife thrive.

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