What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kayak and Paddleboard Guide/Instructor position at Riverbound Sports Paddle Company?
Job Title: Kayak & Paddleboard Guide/Instructor
Company: Riverbound Sports
Location: Tempe, AZ (Primary); Tonto National Forest Field Operations
Compensation: $20–$25 per hour tips | Part-Time | Year-Round
About Us:
Riverbound Sports is a premier provider of stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals, instruction, and guided tours throughout the surrounding desert lakes and waterways. As a licensed outfitter operating under a Tonto National Forest permit through the Mesa Ranger District, we are committed to exceptional customer experiences, safety, and environmental stewardship.
Position Overview:
We are seeking an enthusiastic, safety-focused Guide/Instructor to lead on-water tours and provide professional paddling instruction to guests of all experience levels. The ideal candidate has a strong passion for outdoor recreation, excellent communication skills, and the ability to deliver safe, memorable experiences in varying weather and water conditions. Must be able to work weekends and some holidays.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Safety & Risk Management: Monitor environmental conditions, identify hazards, and implement safety and rescue procedures. Maintain clear communication during all emergency situations.
- Instruction & Coaching: Provide high-quality paddling instruction, including equipment handling and water navigation techniques for diverse participant skill levels.
- Customer Experience: Assist guests with proper equipment fitting and safe entry/exit from watercraft. Maintain group cohesion and ensure a positive, engaging experience for all participants.
- Interpretation & Education: Share knowledge of local wildlife, ecology, geology, and cultural history relevant to the area. Promote environmental respect and “pack in, pack out” practices.
- Activity Leadership: Conduct supplemental activities such as short hikes, short competition/games or interpretive storytelling when applicable.
- Operational Support: Tech saavy and able to login to booking apps to check in guests and verify waivers and demographic details. Load/unload gear and prepare equipment for each outing including assisting with equipment maintenance and facility upkeep. Safely transport gear and guests (when applicable) using company vehicles
- Guest Relations & Marketing: Answer inquiries, assist with reservations, and support event promotion with professionalism and enthusiasm.
Qualifications:
- Associate Degree or equivalent experience
- Paddle Certification (ACA or equivalent) preferred
- Current CPR/AED certification required
- Minimum 2 years of customer service, hospitality, or tourism experience
- Strong passion for paddling and outdoor recreation; positive leadership on and off the water
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
- Comfort working outdoors in extreme weather for extended periods (AZ climate)
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Physically able to lift 40 lbs unassisted and move large objects
- Basic equipment care and maintenance experience
- Ability to lift and transport paddleboards and kayaks between vehicle, shoreline, and warehouse
- Clean driving record
- Proficiency with digital tools (booking systems, waiver software, etc.)
- Excellent customer service skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with customers
Join Our Team:
If you are a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual with a passion for water sports and outdoor recreation, we encourage you to apply. This is a great opportunity to join a growing company and make an impact in the outdoor industry.
Salary : $20 - $25