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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

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 ...

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO

$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 ...

City & Borough of Juneau

Aquatic Instructor

Juneau, AK

$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 ...

At The Lineup

Na Opio Kai (NOK) Instructor

Ewa Beach, HI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Opio Kai Instructor Recreation & Leisure Activities | Full-Time or Part-Time, Hourly The LineUp at ... Background in customer service or ocean sports (kayaking, SUP, etc.) highly desirable Physical ...

At The Lineup

Na Opio Kai (NOK) Instructor

Ewa Beach, HI

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Opio Kai Instructor Recreation & Leisure Activities | Full-Time or Part-Time, Hourly The LineUp at ... Background in customer service or ocean sports (kayaking, SUP, etc.) highly desirable Physical ...

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All JobsKayaking Instructor Jobs

Kayaking Instructor information

See salary details

$32.5K

$36.3K

$39K

How much do kayaking instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 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.

How long does it take to become a kayak instructor?

Becoming a kayak instructor typically requires completing a certified paddling course, gaining paddling experience, and obtaining relevant certifications such as First Aid and CPR. The process can take several weeks to a few months depending on the individual's prior experience and the certification program's schedule.

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.

How to become a certified kayak instructor?

To become a certified kayak instructor, you typically need to complete a recognized kayaking instructor certification course, such as those offered by organizations like the American Canoe Association or the British Canoe Union. These courses cover paddling skills, safety procedures, rescue techniques, and teaching methods, and often require prior paddling experience and CPR/first aid certification.

How much does a kayak instructor make?

Kayaking instructors typically earn between $10 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the organization they work for. Many are paid hourly or through seasonal contracts, and certifications in safety and rescue can influence pay rates.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level roles such as specialized consultants, surgeons, corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. These positions often require advanced skills, significant experience, or ownership of a business, and may involve irregular or project-based work schedules.

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
Adjunct Instructor, Instructional Sport and Recreation

Adjunct Instructor, Instructional Sport and Recreation

Barry University

Miami Shores, FL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with academic coordinators and directors in the instruction and delivery of assigned courses.

  • Develop curriculum and prepare course outlines or syllabi for students.

  • Teach assigned Instructional Sport and Recreation course sections and maintain accurate attendance records.

Barry University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Adjuncts are responsible for collaborating with respective academic coordinators and directors in the instruction and delivery of the course as well as additional responsibilities outlined in the faculty handbook.
Part-time Instructors (Adjuncts), will teach Instructional Sport and Recreation (ISR) courses in the following categories:
• Group Exercise: Aerobics, Pilates, Yoga, Boot Camp, Cardio-Kickboxing, Spinning, Peak Performance and Strength
Training, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Mind/Body Meditation.
• Specific Sport Instruction: Archery, Basketball, Bowling, Flag football, Golf, Soccer, Rowing, Tennis, Triathlon, and
Volleyball.
• Other: Scuba Diving, Self-Defense courses, Water Sports (i.e. kayaking, canoeing, etc.)
Additional Responsibilities:
• Develop curriculum
• Prepare and distribute course outline/syllabi to students
• Teach course sections
• Maintain accurate attendance records
• Use teaching and learning strategies that optimize student performance and interest
• Conduct assessments
• Comply with department and School policies, grading and procedures
Benefits: Barry University offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees that includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, tuition assistance, paid time off and work/life balance initiatives such as wellness programs, spirituality in the workplace, and training and development.
Barry University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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