Kayaking Guide

AKT is planning to hire 14 kayak guides for the 2025 season. 

We need qualified staff who are available from May through the beginning of October. Early arrival in May is important so that we can have enough time for training and familiarization before the busiest months of the season. Some positions may be available for individuals who need to arrive later or leave earlier. 

Our starting wages are $16.66/hr, plus tips, which can often double the base salary. It is not uncommon for guides to be earning a combined wage of $25-$35/hr.

Duties:

• Independently plan trip routes based on group needs, weather conditions, and tidal predictions.

• Lead fun kayak tours while interpreting the natural and cultural history of the area.

• Effectively manage groups while in the field using dynamic risk assessment protocols.

• Communicate directly with guests about their expectations, your plans, why you are making your decisions.

• Follow Leave No Trace Principles while in the field.

• On Multi-Day Trips; Prepare food for guests, set up camp, ensure guest comfort.

• Inspect the packed equipment prior to expedition departures, occasionally you will pack for them yourself.  Clean all equipment and vehicles at the end of each trip.

• Assist in the logistics of operating the trips, including occasionally launching or picking them up.

• Fill in where necessary. There are often small chores that need attending to.

Qualifications: 

• CPR/AED and First Aid or higher.  

• Washington State Food Handler’s Card (available online) 

• Washington State Whale Watch Operator License. (Online, we will assist you in obtaining this.)

• Must be available in early May and attend our training events. You will receive free coaching for the kayak skills training. Land-based operational trainings will be paid.

Required Equipment:

• Cell phone with an international plan. (Your service sometimes will bounce into Canada on some trips.)

• Dry Suit. (Not required on all trips, but you will need it for training and playing. We have a program for assisting you to buy one painlessly, please inquire.)

• Booties to protect your drysuit socks

• Charts of the area (we can sell you waterproof charts at our cost ~$15)

• Blunt-tipped rescue knife.

*We will provide all your necessary safety kit essentials.*

Preferred Skills: 

• Education background: outdoor education, environmental education, recreation, biology, natural resource management, earth sciences or related field.

• Restaurant experience to aid in your presentation of meals out in the field.

• Experience driving trailers (not required, but a benefit).

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively to guests and co-workers. 

• Good physical fitness: the ability to lift at least 50lbs comfortably, and walk on uneven terrain. 

• Leadership experience.

• Our guide kayaks are the limiting factor for your physical size. If you are in excess of 6' 3", or 240 pounds then please call us. Our equipment may not work for you.  

Compensation:

• Competitive wages, DOE, plus tips.