Join Our Crew

 

Sea Kayak Guide and Rental Operations Support
Job Type: Seasonal / Part-Time
Compensation: $17 - $21/hour + tips 


At Whidbey Island Kayaking, we believe water reflects wisdom, and some lessons can only be learned through direct experience. As Sea Kayak Guide & Rental Support, you’ll help guests reconnect with nature, share the rhythms of tide and current, and steward respect. You'll guide tours, teach paddling skills, support rentals, and help maintain gear. This part-time role runs May through September with competitive pay ($17–$21/hr + tips) and other perks. There may be an opportunity for a longer season and/or more hours dependent upon individual skills/expertise/interest.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Lead guided sea kayak tours for individuals and groups

  • Prioritize guest safety while creating an engaging, informative experience.

  • Teach basic paddling techniques and safety protocols.

  • Share insights about local marine life, history, and ecology.

  • Conduct pre-trip safety briefings and post-trip debriefs.

  • Assist with kayak maintenance, cleaning, and logistical preparations.

  • Monitor weather and water conditions to ensure safe paddling experiences.

  • Foster an inclusive, welcoming environment for all guests.
    Assist customers in selecting the appropriate rental equipment.

  • Assist with our rental operation, ensuring smooth rentals and safe experiences for all participants.

  • Provide detailed rental information, including safety guidelines, route recommendations, and what to expect while on the water.

  • Assist customers with signing liability waivers and understanding rental policies.

  • Properly fit customers with PFDs (personal flotation devices).

  • Launch and retrieve rental equipment (kayaks, canoes, SUPs, paddles, and tubes).

Requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 Years of age

  • Cell phone and reliable transportation

  • Current First Aid and CPR (or willingness to get certified if hired)

  • Strong kayaking skills with experience in open water paddling.

  • Prior guiding or outdoor leadership experience

  • Passion for marine ecosystems and wildlife, with the ability to educate guests.

    * Know or be able to quickly learn local, human, and natural history of Whidbey and Salish Sea

    * Must be available weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day

Qualifications:

  • Ability to lift and carry kayaks and gear (typically up to 65 lbs).

  • Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.

  • Reliable and punctual team player.
    Energetic with a positive attitude
    * Must be able to attend mandatory training Sunday, June 15th, 2025

  • Strong communication, decision making, logistical, and organizational skills

  • Ability to work on a team for the benefit of the team

  • Ability to remain calm, think clearly and act quickly in case of an emergency

  • Comfortable and effective in public speaking

  • Existing connections to Whidbey communities

Perks & Benefits:

  • Competitive pay with tips and performance bonuses.

  • Guide training and skill development opportunities.

  • Access to paddling equipment and gear

  • The chance to work in one of the most scenic kayaking locations in the Pacific Northwest.

  • A supportive team that is deeply embedded in the community and that values conservation and connection to nature.

  • Pro deals and gear discounts.

How to Apply:

If you love kayaking, the outdoors, and connecting people with nature, we’d love to hear from you! Please email your resume and a cover letter to info@whidbeyislandkayaking.com. Successful cover letters are well-written and include proper format, spelling, grammar, and punctuation. 

Consider discussing:

  • Tell us what draws you in – What excites you about this job, the Salish Sea, Whidbey, and/or WIK’s Purpose?

  • Share your story – How have your experiences and passions prepared you to make an impact at WIK?

  • Show us how you navigate change – We’re growing and evolving. Give us an example of how you’ve adapted, taken ownership, or thrived in a dynamic environment.

Highlight how you work with others – Tell us about a time you collaborated across teams, built relationships, or made a process better.