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Kayaking Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Kayaking Instructor information

See Washington, DC salary details

$35.9K

$40.1K

$43.1K

How much do kayaking instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for kayaking instructor in Washington, DC is $40,078.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,700.00 and $41,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.
Infographic showing various Kayaking Instructor job openings in Washington, DC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,078 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Adapted Aquatics and Fitness Positions - Seasonal

Adapted Aquatics and Fitness Positions - Seasonal

The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission

Riverdale Park, MD

$17.25/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Maryland-National Capital Park And Planning Commission rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

462nd of 643 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The Prince George's County Department of Parks and Recreation Special Programs Division is seeking Seasonal/Intermittent applicants to fill a variety of positions at several Adapted Aquatics Program & Fitness sites throughout Prince George's County. These positions will coordinate, instruct, and assist individuals with disabilities in various aquatics and fitness programs. Please note: Hours and locations may vary and are contingent upon sufficient program registration and funding.

If programs are canceled, staff will not be scheduled to work. Adapted Aquatics & Fitness sites: Ellen E Linson Splash Park, College Park, MD Fairland Sports & Aquatics Complex, Laurel, MD Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex, Landover, MD Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex, Brandywine, MD Southern Regional Aquatic & Wellness Center, Fort Washington, MD Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatic Center, Glenarden, MD Part-Time Opportunities: Salary depends on position, experience, and certifications. Must be available to work on various weekends, evenings, and holidays.

All persons selected for hire must complete a criminal background investigation. This is a seasonal post. Vacancies are filled on an as-needed basis.

For more information about the Seasonal Hiring process and application status for Prince George's County Parks and Recreation, please contact Joelle Edmond, Joelle.Edmond@pgparks.com or Brenda Miller Brenda.Miller@Pgparks.com. Examples of Important Duties WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTOR $ 23.58 - 27.30 This position is responsible for instructing individuals with disabilities on water safety, basic and advanced swim instruction, in a one-on-one or small group setting. Works approximately 3-15 hours per week

Minimum prior experience with adapting lessons for individual needs. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and hold a current Water Safety Instructor and CPR/First Aid Certification. LIFEGUARD $ 18.96 - $21.30 This position is responsible for the safety of individuals with disabilities during lessons

Works approximately 3-15 hours per week. Applicants must be at least 15 years of age and hold a current Lifeguard and CPR/First Aid Certification. SWIM INSTRUCTOR AIDE $ 19.99 - 23.13 This position is responsible for assisting the swim instructor during lessons for individuals with disabilities, in a one-on-one or small group setting

Works approximately 3-15 hours per week. Preferred experience working with individuals with disabilities and Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and hold a current Lifeguard and CPR/First Aid Certification. CLASS INSTRUCTOR $17.25 - $75.00 Provides instruction for a specific skill area such as Tai Chi, yoga, aerobics, Zumba, exercise/fitness/sports, strength training, personal training, dancing, kayaking, and other specialty skills

Minimum prior experience with adapting programs for individual needs. Preferred experience working with individuals with disabilities and current ARC CPR/First Aid Certification. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

ADATED FITNESS TRAINER $17.25 - $75.00 Provides instruction for a specific skill area such as Tai Chi, yoga, aerobics, Zumba, exercise/fitness/sports, strength training, personal training, dancing, kayaking, and other specialty skills. Must hold nationally recognized certification and experience in Post-Rehabilitation Exercise is preferred. Preferred experience working with individuals with disabilities and current ARC CPR/First Aid Certification

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age Supplemental Information May be subject to drug and alcohol testing. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate a workplace culture of diversity, equity and inclusion without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor.

Applicants with Disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require accommodation or special arrangements due to a qualifying disability, please notify the Recruitment & Selections Services Unit at the time of applications at or301-454-1411. (Maryland Relay 7-1-1) M-NCPPC will make all efforts to reasonably accommodate you.


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