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Kayaking Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brevard Zoo

Treetop Trek Guide

Melbourne, FL · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

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How much do kayaking guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 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 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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 26% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 63% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,919 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Day-Trip Raft Guide

Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking

White Salmon, WA • On-site

$195/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Wet Planet is looking for experienced paddle raft guides to join our team on the Class III-IV White Salmon River!
Our team enjoys making it possible for guests to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and gain an appreciation for our natural environment through half-day and full-day paddle raft trips on the Northwest's classic Wild and Scenic White Salmon River. With continuous, technical Class III-IV whitewater, it is essential that our day trip raft guides prioritize guest care and risk management to create seamless experiences for guests. As the face of Wet Planet, our guides enjoy working with a team of fellow river professionals to make sure our guests have amazing experiences out on the river.
The bulk of our day trips are Class III-IV paddle rafting on the White Salmon River. Due to the technical nature of the White Salmon, all guides we hire must have previous guiding experience on Class III-IV. In addition to the White Salmon, we offer day trips on the Class III Klickitat River, Class III Tieton River, Class IV Hood River, and Class V Wind River. Our guides enjoy this variety and the opportunity to hone their skills and guide Class IV/V if desired. Kayakers enjoy the opportunity to support kayak on small trips and Class V trips.
Wet Planet
Each year, many of our guests and team members return to enjoy the abundance of beautiful rivers we raft and kayak in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Our headquarters is located on the banks of the White Salmon River in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, surrounded by a whitewater paradise and an incredible community of boaters. It's the perfect location for raft guides and kayakers to work and play in the Pacific Northwest.
Qualifications & Experience:
  • Previous commercial paddle raft guiding experience on Class III whitewater at a minimum; Class IV experience preferred
  • Professional appearance, excellent communication skills, and team player
  • You love guiding rafts and sharing the river with guests, including your knowledge on natural and human history
  • You prioritize guest care and risk management
  • Current First Aid & CPR required at a minimum; Wilderness First Responder preferred
  • Current River Rescue Certification preferred (Sierra Rescue, ACA Swiftwater, or equivalent)

Day Trip Season: We offer day trips from April 1-September 30.
Availability:
  • Full-time, full season: Mid-May (or earlier) through September
  • Full-time, peak season: June-August
  • Part-time, peak season: June-August

Many of our staff combine work in multiple disciplines and enjoy the variety of work throughout the season. For those with skills in paddle rafting, rowing, and/or kayaking, work is available from April to September by combining day trips, multi-day trips, and kayak instruction.
Wet Planet Perks:
  • Access to free trips and courses as well as discounted professional training (river rescue courses, medical courses, ACA instructor course, etc.)
  • Cross-training for other job areas & opportunities within Wet Planet
  • Discounts on food, drinks, and merchandise in the Wet Planet store and espresso bar
  • Industry Pro Purchase Program
  • Free rafting and kayak courses for friends & family
  • Access to local housing options
  • Accrued Sick Leave
  • Retirement plan after two years of employment

Compensation:
  • $85-195 per trip, based on certifications, experience, role, and type of trip (half-day or full-day, first year guide to Senior Trip Leader with all required experience, trainings and certifications)
  • Simple IRA savings plan option after 2 years

Combine your desire to play outside with your professional skillset and experience - join our team!

Apply