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Surfing Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surf Instructor

Koloa, HI · On-site

$1.2K - $3.0K/mo

Hawaiian Style Surfing | Poipu, Kauai Do you love surfing and want to share that passion with ... We're looking for energetic, patient, and safety-minded Surf Instructors who enjoy working with ...

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Surfing Instructor information

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$12

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$26

How much do surfing instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for surfing instructor in the United States is $17.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surfing instructor?

A Surfing Instructor teaches individuals or groups how to surf, including water safety, paddling techniques, wave selection, and standing on the board. They ensure students understand ocean conditions and proper etiquette while fostering confidence in the water. Instructors may work at surf schools, resorts, or independently, catering to beginners and advanced surfers alike. The role requires strong swimming skills, patience, and a passion for surfing.

How much do surfing instructors get paid?

Surfing instructors typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with pay rates varying based on experience, location, and whether they work for a surf school or independently. Many instructors also receive tips from students, which can significantly increase overall earnings. Some seasonal or full-time positions may offer additional benefits or higher wages depending on the region and demand.

What are some common challenges faced by surfing instructors on the job?

Surfing Instructors often face challenges such as adapting lessons for students of varying skill levels, responding quickly to changing ocean and weather conditions, and ensuring everyone remains safe in potentially unpredictable environments. Managing group dynamics—especially with larger classes or nervous beginners—requires patience and clear communication. Additionally, instructors may need to work early mornings, weekends, or holidays, especially during peak surf seasons. Overcoming these challenges builds resilience, fosters strong teaching skills, and contributes to a rewarding and dynamic work experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surfing instructor?

To succeed as a Surfing Instructor, you need strong swimming ability, mastery of surfing techniques, and an in-depth knowledge of ocean safety, commonly backed by lifeguard certification and first aid/CPR credentials. Familiarity with surfboards, rescue equipment, and scheduling or booking systems is also beneficial. Patience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to motivate and connect with students are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and effective learning experience for all participants.

Do surfing instructors get paid?

Yes, surfing instructors typically receive payment for their services, which can include hourly wages, lesson fees, or a combination of both. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for a surf school, and may also include tips from students.

What qualifications do I need to be a surfing instructor?

To become a surfing instructor, you typically need a valid lifeguard certification, such as First Aid and CPR, and a recognized surfing instructor certification from organizations like the International Surfing Association (ISA) or equivalent. Experience in surfing and strong communication skills are also important for teaching and ensuring safety in the water.
More about Surfing Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Surfing Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Surfing Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Surfing Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Surfing Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Surfing Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,252 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

$39K - $50K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Surfing Program Assistant

Under the direction of the MBAC Instructional Coordinator and the MBAC Assistant Director, the Surfing Program Assistant is responsible for assisting in training, scheduling, and supervising staff; completing administrative tasks related to the department; and completing assigned tasks that may require a high level of skill or attention to detail. This position will focus on the safety and operations of the MBAC Surfing department by providing additional support and supervision for surfing staff. Supervises all daily operational functions of MBAC when assigned as "duty person" including assisting customers with equipment use, handling and reporting customer and employee accidents and complaints, opening and closing the building, supervising part-time staff in the absence of their direct supervisor, and other operational functions.

Primary Functions
  • Provide support to the MBAC Instructional Coordinator in training and supervising MBAC surfing instructors
  • Maintain safety of the MBAC surfing program
  • Responsible for assisting with hiring, training, scheduling, coaching, and evaluating surfing staff
  • Plan and implement department trainings and in-service trainings for the surfing staff
  • Assist with administrative tasks including but not limited to scheduling staff, data entry, and completing reports
  • Propose future efficiencies and establish protocols and procedures for the surfing department
  • Maintain strong communication with MBAC full time staff
  • Other duties as assigned
Customer Service and Collaboration
  • Serves as main point of contact for customers and Office Assistants regarding surfing issues
  • Ensures all staff are providing the best customer service and value possible
  • Responds to customer inquiries, complaints, and issues in a timely fashion
  • Establishes and maintains working relationships with various A.S. and University departments
Safety
  • Ensures all operations are conducted with safety of staff and customers as first priority, and in accordance with the Injury and Illness Prevention Plan and other safety policies
  • Adheres to Associated Students' Code of Safe Practices
  • Reports accidents to supervisor and reviews changes required to avoid reoccurrence
  • Ensures proper documentation is completed for each accident (employee and/or non-employee) and forwards to supervisor
  • Reports maintenance problems and/or broken and unsafe equipment to the appropriate party immediately
Qualifications

Minimum & Preferred Requirements

Education:

  • High School Diploma
  • Bachelor's Degree from a regionally accredited college or university in Recreation, Physical Education, or a related field preferred

Experience:

  • Minimum two years of demonstrated experience teaching surfing

License & Certifications:

  • Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding (must be obtained within the first month of employment)
  • FBI, DOJ, and LiveScan fingerprint clearance
  • Current valid Driver's License

Trainings:

  • Anti-Harassment Training for Supervisors (Must be completed within 30 days of hire)
  • Workplace Violence Prevention Plan Training (Must be completed within 30 days of hire)
  • Gender Awareness Training (Must be completed within 30 days of hire)
  • MBAC All Staff Training
Performance Expectations
  • Complete tasks and projects that require high level of skill and/or attention to detail
  • Able to multitask while working in a fast paced environment
  • Capable of maintaining positive working relationships with staff, customers, and vendors
  • Able to work independently with minimal supervision and as a team player
  • Able to interact effectively with a wide diversity of people and support San Diego State University Associated Students' values and mission
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Must have excellent technical surfing skills (or excellent understanding of skills)
  • Must have excellent knowledge of the ocean environment including weather, surf, currents, marine animals, and other environmental conditions
  • Must be aware of current trends in the sport of surfing
  • Must be well organized and able to prioritize work, problem solve, make decisions, and meet scheduled deadlines under pressure
  • Must be able to follow oral and written directions and follow projects through to completion
  • Must have strong English language skills and the ability to read, write, and verbally communicate at a level appropriate to the duties of the position
  • Ability to operate a computer, proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and ability to learn and utilize new software programs
  • Ability to gather and organize data, draw logical conclusions, and discern implications
  • Must be able to lead by example and serve as a teacher/mentor to staff within the department and at MBAC
Schedule & Working Conditions

This is a part-time position. Flexibility and willingness to work long hours including weekends with high demand during summer.

The work environment will involve exposure to salt water, cold water, sun, wind, rain, weather, sand, seaweed, sea grass, ocean currents, sea creatures, breaking waves, and other outdoor elements.

Physical requirements include but are not limited to: swimming, swimming in rough and deep water, walking, running, walking or running over rough or uneven surfaces, bending, stooping, lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying loads. Must be able to swim at least 550 yards, dive at least 10 feet deep, swim with a 10 pound object for at least 20 yards, and tread water for at least 2 minutes. Must be able to watch and supervise groups of students on the water while coaching technique and supervising safety. Must be able to recognize and respond to emergencies and prevent injuries or drowning.

Relationships

Inside the Organization:

  • Reports to the MBAC Instructional Supervisor
  • Reports to the MBAC Instructional Coordinator
  • Works closely with Office Assistants and other staff members
  • Supervises Surfing Instructors

Employment Category: Part Time, MBAC Range 3, Step 1 – Starting Rate: $21.00/hour

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with Associated Students. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current Associated Students employees who apply for the position.

Fingerprinting is required for all employee and volunteer positions that have direct contact with minor children.