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Kayaking Instructor Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Kayaking Instructor information

See Texas salary details

$29.8K

$33.3K

$35.8K

How much do kayaking instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for kayaking instructor in Texas is $33,251.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,100.00 and $34,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a kayaking instructor do?

A kayaking instructor teaches individuals or groups how to safely and effectively paddle and maneuver kayaks in various water conditions. They provide instruction on paddling techniques, safety procedures, and rescue skills, and often lead guided trips or classes. Kayaking instructors are responsible for assessing participants' abilities, ensuring that all safety equipment is used properly, and creating a supportive learning environment. They may work with beginners or more experienced paddlers and are often certified through recognized organizations.

What does a kayaking instructor do?

A kayak instructor teaches students paddling techniques and safety practices related to kayaking. You can perform your teaching duties at an outdoor adventure school, for adventure companies, or as part of a state or city park program. In many cases, you also act as a guide for a short kayak trip. Your job tasks include planning the course, providing classroom instruction, and instructing students as they practice using a kayak on a lake or river. Your responsibilities often consist of helping novice paddlers as they take an excursion to practice their new kayaking skills. Some employers require that you obtain certification before teaching.

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

To thrive as a Kayaking Instructor, you need strong paddling skills, water safety knowledge, and relevant certifications such as ACA (American Canoe Association) or BCU (British Canoeing Union) qualifications. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid/CPR certification, and kayaking instruction techniques are typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership abilities help instructors effectively teach and motivate diverse groups. These skills ensure safe, engaging, and educational experiences for participants while minimizing risks on the water.

What are some common challenges faced by kayaking instructors and how can they be managed on the job?

Kayaking instructors often face challenges such as managing varying skill levels within a group, ensuring safety in changing weather or water conditions, and keeping participants engaged. Effective communication, strong risk assessment abilities, and adaptability are essential for addressing these challenges. Most instructors work closely with other staff members to coordinate logistics and maintain safety protocols, and they receive ongoing training to stay updated on best practices.

What is the difference between Kayaking Instructor vs Canoeing Instructor?

AspectKayaking InstructorCanoeing Instructor
CertificationsWater safety, CPR, kayaking-specific trainingWater safety, CPR, canoeing-specific training
Work EnvironmentRivers, lakes, kayaking centersRivers, lakes, canoeing centers
Industry UsageOutdoor recreation, adventure tourismOutdoor recreation, adventure tourism
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both kayaking and canoeing instructors work in outdoor water environments, requiring similar safety certifications. The main difference lies in the equipment and techniques used: kayaking involves a sit-in or sit-on-top kayak, while canoeing uses a canoe. They often work in similar settings such as lakes, rivers, and adventure parks, serving outdoor recreation and tourism industries. When searching for instruction roles, individuals may compare these titles due to overlapping skills and environments.

More about Kayaking Instructor jobs

What are popular job titles related to Kayaking Instructor jobs in Texas?

For Kayaking Instructor jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kayaking Instructor jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Kayaking Instructor jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Kayaking Instructor jobs in TX?

For Kayaking Instructor jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Kayaking Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kayaking Instructor job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,251 per year, or $16 per hour.

Adventure Education Instructor (UREC)

Angelo State University

San Angelo, TX • On-site

$7.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Angelo State University rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

565th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Job Title
Adventure Education Instructor (UREC)
Position Type
Student
Division
Student Affairs
Department
University Recreation
Essential Duties
  1. Aid in facilitating all Outdoor Adventure program areas.
  2. Responsible for utilizing training and judgment to reduce risk in programs.
  3. Assist in enforcing all UREC and Outdoor Adventure policies where applicable, and following guidelines laid out within the operational manual.
  4. Determine facility and program access eligibility for each patron.
  5. Advertise and solicit willing participants to fill Outdoor Adventure program spaces.
  6. Attend all staff meetings and scheduled shifts.
  7. Facilitate patron check-in/check-out for all program areas utilizing pre-established processes and orientations.
  8. Perform applicable opening and closing responsibilities which include but are not limited to: tying ropes, putting away equipment, walking the Lake House property, changing trash bags, vacuuming, and other occasional cleanings.
  9. Properly maintain and store all Outdoor Adventure equipment, which can include: technical climbing and instructional supplies, inspecting equipment, filling chalk balls, route setting, keeping gym and desk area clean, and entering data into digital Outdoor Adventure systems.
  10. Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications
  • Must be a currently enrolled student and registered for classes.

Preferred Qualifications
  • American Red Cross CPR/AED Certification

Physical Demands
  • Climb ladders, rock wall, route setting, or outside surfaces. This may require being in a harness for extended periods.
  • Carry, push, or pull fifty pounds over short distances.
  • Participating or leading any activity OA facilitates (e.g. rock climbing, team building, kayaking, backpacking, etc.).

Salary
$7.25
EEO Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Angelo State University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to employment opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities. We are committed to ensuring that a qualified individual with a disability has the same rights and privileges in employment as non-disabled employees. If an accommodation is requested for the job application process, please contact our office at (325) 942-2168 or email us at hr@angelo.edu.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
Number of Vacancies
5
Open Date
07/28/2026
Close Date
09/10/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicant

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