1

Surf Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Class A - Surface Designer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$96K - $162K/yr

ICEM Surf, CATIA ISD, Alias, Team Center, Reference Manager) High School/GED required Even better, you may have.. Associates degree or equivalent. Bachelor's Degree preferred Strong understanding of ...

ICEM Surf, CATIA ISD, Alias, Team Center, Reference Manager) * High School/GED required Even better, you may have... Associates degree or equivalent. Bachelor's Degree preferred Strong understanding ...

New

Showing results 21-28

Surf information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$17

$41

How much do surf jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for surf in Michigan is $17.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.61 and $21.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surf instructor?

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Surf jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Surf jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Surf jobs in Michigan?

For Surf jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Surf job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,721 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Class A - Surface Designer

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI • On-site

$96K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Ford Motor Company rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 527 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 45 rated automakers


Job description

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world -- together. At Ford, we're all a part of something bigger than ourselves.

Are you ready to change the way the world moves. Join us in shaping the future of Ford Motor Company, as part of a global organization with exceptional colleagues in world-class facilities. As part of Ford Design, you'll be at the cutting edge of Ford's most strategically critical work, designing people and society's needs into the heart of our next generation of products, services, and experiences.

Surface Development Primary is the leader of surface quality and Class A surface on the program. As part of Ford Design, the primary integrates engineering requirements while maintaining the design vision. What you'll do..

Leads program surface progression of Design and surface expert evaluation, and critique sheet process Leads cross-system surface execution to ensure full system surface compatibility Confirms all program surface interfaces are "Designed-in-Context" to a coordinated data set including supplier data Develops and maintains a coordinated Class A surface database (i.e. Reference Manager) Ensures incorporation of appropriated technical, attribute and program requirements into surface whilst maintaining the design vision. Drives resolution of surface data issues by leading power wall and digital reviews Manages surface changes in SDMS (Surface Data Management system) Maintain program product structure and part history in Teamcenter to accurately represent evolution of design and change control Supports DTO Supervisor with workload distribution, and prioritization of assignments within Surfacing Team Facilitate program surface progression through the K-Loops

Develop and assist (mentor) Class A Surface Designers in the delivery of feasible math surfaces aligned with program milestones requirements that delivers design intent During the K-Loops, lead surface development pre-Discovery Complete and post-Discovery Complete lead the incorporation of technical requirements into the surface. On applicable programs, work with Production Studio post K6 to ensure Design vision is maintained through the surface verification process. You'll have..

7+ years of experience in Class A Surfacing (Exterior and Interior commodities, Total Vehicle System Compatibility). Demonstrates creative and artistic insight, and ensure progression of surface data consistent with Design Language Strong technical skills in Class A Surfacing Tools, Data Management and Visualization Tools (e.g. ICEM Surf, CATIA ISD, Alias, Team Center, Reference Manager) High School/GED required Even better, you may have..

Associates degree or equivalent. Bachelor's Degree preferred Strong understanding of Design Development and Feasibility Process, and how they drive the design process through the FC / UPVX / FAA GPDS milestones Understanding of the Craftsmanship, DPA Process and System Compatibility. Proven ability to evaluate design alternatives and provide a recommendation Demonstrate interpersonal skills including ability to plan and organize work utilizing departmental project management tools (e.g

Surface Tracker, Surface Change Request System, etc.). Able to develop and track a plan to deliver geometry through the GPDS milestones Good communication skills, collaborative behavior for daily interaction with Design Studio, Engineering, Manufacturing and other affected activities Knowledge of Microsoft suite (Power Point and Excel) You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply. As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice

You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home. Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills. Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above

No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including: Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases Tuition assistance Established and active employee resource groups Paid time off for individual and team community service A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time. This position is a salary grade 7-8 and ranges from $84,480-141,360., This position is a salary grade 8 and ranges from $96,720-162,120. For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/GSR Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660. This position is hybrid.

Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid #DesignTeam #LI-SC3


What Ford Motor Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom