1

Surf Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advanced Surf Coach

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

DSRT SURF isn't a traditional workplace, and we're not looking for a traditional surf coach. We're building a fast growing hospitality and lifestyle brand where surf culture, guest experience, safety ...

Surf Concierge

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

DSRT SURF isn't a traditional workplace, and we're not looking for traditional hospitality staff. We're building a fast growing hospitality and lifestyle brand where surf culture, guest experience ...

A surf instructor teaches individuals or groups safety and core techniques for paddling pop up and wave riding. Teaching wave pool awareness, while managing equipment and ensuring a positive ...

We are looking for a few more outstanding surf instructors. Innovative individuals with the desire to make sales and build a lifestyle brand are a major plus. WATCH WHY THIS IS SAN DIEGO'S COOLEST ...

We are looking for a few more outstanding surf instructors. Innovative individuals with the desire to make sales and build a lifestyle brand are a major plus. WATCH WHY THIS IS SAN DIEGO'S COOLEST ...

We are looking for a few more outstanding surf instructors. Innovative individuals with the desire to make sales and build a lifestyle brand are a major plus. WATCH WHY THIS IS SAN DIEGO'S COOLEST ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Surf information

See salary details

$7

$20

$47

How much do surf jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for surf in the United States is $20.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Surf Job?

The primary qualifications for a surf job depend on the position. Retail sales positions usually require little or no education, though employers prefer applicants who are already familiar with surfing products and culture. Becoming a surfing teacher requires expert-level surfing skills and the ability to manage a classroom, but these positions rarely require special certification. Special roles, such as filming while surfing or taking photographs of other surfers doing stunts, often require a bachelor's degree and several years of experience. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a surf job requires excellent communication skills, swimming skills, physical fitness, and the ability to memorize and follow safety and emergency procedures.

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

To thrive as a Surf Instructor, you need excellent swimming ability, surf proficiency, and often a certification such as the International Surfing Association (ISA) instructor credential. Familiarity with safety protocols, first aid/CPR certification, and knowledge of local surf conditions are also essential. Outstanding communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors effectively teach and encourage students of varying skill levels. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable, and productive surf lessons that foster student progress and confidence.

What are some common challenges faced by surf instructors and how can they overcome them?

Surf instructors often encounter challenges such as varying student skill levels, unpredictable ocean conditions, and maintaining student safety. To overcome these, instructors must adapt their teaching methods for beginners and advanced learners, stay vigilant about changing tides and weather, and prioritize clear communication about safety protocols. Building strong rapport with students and staying updated on local surf conditions both contribute to a positive and effective learning environment.

What are surf instructors?

Surf instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups how to surf, focusing on techniques, safety, and ocean awareness. They provide guidance on paddling, standing up on the board, and reading waves, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning environment. Many surf instructors are experienced surfers themselves and often work at surf schools, resorts, or as independent coaches. Their goal is to help students progress from beginners to confident surfers while emphasizing water safety and respect for the ocean.

What is the difference between Surf vs Lifeguard?

AspectSurfLifeguard
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification, Surf Instructor CertificationCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentBeaches, surf schools, water parksBeaches, pools, water parks, aquatic facilities
Industry UsageSurfing schools, water sports centersPublic beaches, private pools, aquatic safety services
Job FocusTeaching surfing, ensuring safety during surf activitiesMonitoring water safety, rescuing swimmers, enforcing safety rules

While both roles involve water safety, a Surf primarily focuses on teaching and guiding surfing activities, whereas a Lifeguard is responsible for monitoring overall water safety and rescuing swimmers. The certifications overlap but differ slightly in scope, with Surf roles emphasizing surf instruction and Lifeguard roles emphasizing rescue skills.

What cities are hiring for Surf jobs? Cities with the most Surf job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surf jobs? The most popular types of Surf jobs are:
What states have the most Surf jobs? States with the most job openings for Surf jobs include:
Infographic showing various Surf job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,816 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Advanced Surf Coach

DSRT SURF OPERATIONS LLC

Palm Desert, CA • On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description:

DSRT SURF isn’t a traditional workplace, and we’re not looking for a traditional surf coach.


We’re building a fast growing hospitality and lifestyle brand where surf culture, guest experience, safety, and community come together in a unique way. We’re looking for experienced surf professionals who are passionate about coaching, guest interaction, water safety, and creating unforgettable experiences in and around the water.


The Advanced Surf Coach is responsible for coaching guests during advanced surf sessions while helping maintain a safe, positive, and high energy environment. This role supports surf operations through coaching, guest engagement, safety awareness, and operational readiness across the surf experience.


This role is best suited for experienced surfers who are confident coaching guests in dynamic surf environments.


What You’ll Do

  • Coach guests during advanced surf sessions and experiences
  • Provide instruction, feedback, encouragement, and surf guidance in a safe and professional manner
  • Support guest safety and operational awareness in and around the water
  • Help create a positive, welcoming, and high energy surf environment
  • Assist with surf operations, session flow, equipment handling, and guest readiness
  • Communicate clearly with guests, leadership, and surf operations team members
  • Support opening, closing, and operational setup duties as needed
  • Assist with maintaining cleanliness, organization, and operational readiness of surf areas and equipment
  • Help ensure company safety procedures and operational standards are consistently followed
Requirements:

What You Bring

  • Previous surf coaching, surf instruction, or strong surfing experience required
  • Strong understanding of surf etiquette, safety, and wave awareness
  • Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with guests and team members
  • Positive attitude and strong guest service mindset
  • Ability to remain calm and safety focused in fast paced environments
  • Experience working in hospitality, recreation, athletics, or guest experience environments is a plus
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and operational conditions
  • Stoke

Who You Are

You’re curious, positive, and excited to help build something unique from the ground up. You enjoy coaching, connecting with people, and creating memorable experiences in and around the water.


You bring strong energy, professionalism, and adaptability to fast moving environments. You’re safety minded, team oriented, and willing to jump in wherever needed to support the guest experience and surf operations team.


Compensation

Compensation will be based on experience and qualifications.


Why DSRT SURF

This is an opportunity to help build something from the ground up where hospitality meets surf culture in a way that hasn’t been done before. You’ll work directly with leadership and play an important role in shaping the operational flow, culture, and experience of the organization from day one.


Equal Opportunity Employer

DSRT SURF is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We consider applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.


Reasonable Accommodation Statement

DSRT SURF provides reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Applicants requiring accommodation during the hiring process should notify the company.


At-Will Employment Statement

This job description is not intended to create a contract of employment. Employment with DSRT SURF is at will, which means either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law.


Work Location

This is a fully on-site role in Palm Desert, California.