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Surf Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

AAA Oregon/Idaho

Insurance Agent

Beaverton, OR · On-site

We get our feet wet: we hike, bike, ski, surf, climb, fish, hunt and gather. We go for a great deal, a challenging workout and a wide-open road. We drive, ride, cruise and fly. We are sightseers ...

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Surf information

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.

More about Surf jobs

What job categories do people searching Surf jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Surf jobs in Portland, OR are:

Surf jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surf job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Insurance Agent

Beaverton, OR • On-site

AAA Oregon/Idaho
Personal Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about AAA Oregon/Idahoexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

AAA is looking for motivated insurance agents for our busy Beaverton office!

With over 100 years of experience in the insurance business, our members trust us to make sure their most valuable assets are properly covered. At AAA we offer multiple top tier carriers. If you are looking for a sales position with no overhead, life/work balance, top-notch benefits, access to a large member base, and a stable organization then this is the position for you!

Stand out qualities
  • Requires being a motivated self-starter.
  • Strong sales ability and customer service skills.
  • Organizational and time management skills.
  • Property & Casualty licenserequired; training for non-licensed candidates available.
    • If not licensed upon hire, must successfully pass the licensing exam within 30 days of hire, and/or within two (2) examination attempts, whichever occurs first.
  • Must possess strong interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ideal candidate has a positive attitude with a desire to serve our members.
  • Eligibility for hire based on a clean background check and drug screen.
  • High school education or equivalent, college degree or equivalent experience a plus.

AAA Oregon offers robust benefits:

  • No overhead expenses and high income potential
  • Great Lead Sources - Access to more than 800,000 existing members
  • Defined Business hours - Monday through Friday
  • Medical insurance (75% premium paid by AAA, low to zero deductible plan options, high quality coverage with low co-pays)
  • Dental insurance with orthodontia coverage
  • Up to 9% 401(k) contributions and match
  • Paid sick, vacation, and holidays

At AAA, we embrace the word go but know when to slow down and breathe in. We believe in quality time, in family time, in getting home on weeknights and away on weekends. We are forward thinking; we go to jobs we like, and we want every dollar to matter. We look for balance, for security and stability, for peace of mind. We are sons, daughters, mothers and fathers. We are doers, sharers and learners. We get our feet wet: we hike, bike, ski, surf, climb, fish, hunt and gather. We go for a great deal, a challenging workout and a wide-open road. We drive, ride, cruise and fly. We are sightseers, adventurers and explorers; discovering new places, uncovering new worlds. We go for the past, present and future. We are AAA.

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