Kayak Tour Guide

Category: Seasonal

Salary: $20/hour

Bonus: $200/month for successful completion of your employment agreement. The bonus is dependent on terms of your seasonal availability and performance/attendance, up to $1,000 total. Employees who do not complete the entire term of their employment agreement will not be eligible for any part of the incentive/bonus.  

Position Summary

The Kayak Guide is responsible for leading guests on guided kayak excursions near Klawock Island, ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience. This role involves providing safety briefings, assisting guests with equipment, and sharing knowledge about the local environment, wildlife, and history.

 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 
• Lead guided kayak tours, ensuring guest safety and an enjoyable experience. 
• Conduct pre-tour safety briefings, demonstrating proper paddling techniques and emergency procedures. 
• Assist guests with fitting personal flotation devices (PFDs), adjusting gear, and launching kayaks. 
• Monitor weather and water conditions, making informed decisions to maintain safety. 
• Educate guests about the local ecosystem, wildlife, glacial features, and cultural history. 
• Provide exceptional customer service, addressing guest inquiries and concerns professionally. 
• Perform basic maintenance and cleaning of kayaks, paddles, and safety equipment. 
• Assist with tour logistics, including gear storage, transportation, and trip coordination. 
• Follow all company policies and safety regulations

• Maintain professional conduct and represent Klawock Island Ventures with integrity and pride.

• Promote Klawock Island Ventures (KIV) venues and merchandise.

• Participate in all required training.

• Maintain current First Aid/CPR certification.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Experience, Skills and Qualifications:

• Previous experience guiding kayaking, outdoor adventure, or nature-based tours preferred.

• Experience working in tourism, hospitality, or guest service environments is highly valued.

• Strong kayaking and water safety skills.

• Excellent communication and storytelling abilities.

• Ability to lead groups and maintain situational awareness in outdoor environments.

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in changing weather or water conditions.

• Physical ability to assist guests, carry kayaks, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Swiftwater rescue or sea kayak guide certification preferred but not required.

• Valid driver’s license preferred.

• Commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

• Must be willing to work in harsh weather conditions for extended periods of time and work varied shifts as well as weekends and holidays.

Klawock Island Ventures is a Native-owned and operated enterprise and offers Native Preference under P.L.93-638. Applicants must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States.