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Kayaking Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO · On-site

$20/hr

Field Instructor Reports To: Program Director FSLA Status: Seasonal, non-exempt Salary: DOE ... kayaking, rock climbing, arts and crafts, and more. * Adapt programming and leadership style to ...

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO · On-site

$20/hr

Field Instructor Reports To: Program Director FSLA Status: Seasonal, non-exempt Salary: DOE ... kayaking, rock climbing, arts and crafts, and more. * Adapt programming and leadership style to ...

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO · On-site

Field Instructor Reports To: Program Director FSLA Status: Seasonal, non-exempt Salary: DOE ... Facilitate a range of activities, including field games, day hiking, camping, kayaking, rock ...

City & Borough of Juneau

Aquatic Instructor

Juneau, AK · On-site

$21.31 - $22.74/hr

Other: American Red Cross certification as "Water Safety Instructor" or other specialized certification in diving, scuba diving or kayaking as appropriate. At least 15 years of age at time of ...

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Kayaking Instructor information

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$32.5K

$36.3K

$39K

How much do kayaking instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for kayaking instructor in the United States is $36,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $37,500.00 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.
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Kayaking Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kayaking Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,250 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Adjunct Recreation Activity Instructor

Adjunct Recreation Activity Instructor

Weber State University

Ogden, UT • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Weber State University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

436th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
WSU's Commitment to Equal Opportunity
Weber State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an environment welcoming to all individuals. We strive to create a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected categories, such as disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, national origin, veterans status, or others, as required by law and university policy (see Weber State University's Policy and Procedure Manual 3-32).
Position Information
Position Title
Adjunct Recreation Activity Instructor
Requisition Number
A00005P
Job Summary/Basic Function
Part-time adjunct instructor of lower division recreation activity courses as needed per semester. The instructor is responsible for leading safe, effective, and enjoyable classes for the HPHP department in various disciplines and activities, to include but not limited to: hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, snow/ice climbing, mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding, whitewater rafting, whitewater kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing.
**This is a pooled position. Applicants are selected from the pool as positions become available. After a period of time the pool will expire and applicants will be notified.
Required Qualifications
Minimum current CPR and First Aid. Other requirements determined at time of application or interview based on specific course needs.
Preferred Qualifications
Background Check?
Yes
Posting Detail Information
Open Date
09/22/2025
Close Date
09/22/2026
Open Until Filled
Notes to Applicant
To apply, complete the online application, attach a resume and a cover letter.
If you are hired, please keep in mind that you will need to complete the appropriate Payroll and HR documents prior to beginning work.
The screening of applicants will begin immediately.
Due to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), individuals who have worked in a salaried capacity for Weber State University are ineligible to be hired as an hourly or adjunct employee at Weber State for six months.
Criminal Background check is required as a condition of employment.

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