03/02/2022
Let the waters of Lake Superior be your summer office! We are hiring for part time and full-time kayak guides to join our crew of fun and amazing people. We enjoy sharing our enthusiasm for the Apostle Islands, Lake Superior’s sea caves and mother nature with others. All the gear and training is provided to learn how to safely guide people on Lake Superior, so no previous experience is necessary. Experienced paddlers will be compensated with a higher starting wage and seniority for scheduling.
Kayak Guides lead tours at Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island, approximately 3 hours in length, ~4 miles round trip of paddling and small group sizes per tour. Entry level guides are matched with senior guides to lead tours, 1 to 2 tours per day. Guides may also repair kayaks, gear, and have other work opportunities around the beach shop.
The kayak guide position is responsible for all aspects of the tour, taking care of/cleaning equipment, communicating with other staff and clients, and setting up/putting away all gear for your tour. As a guide, it is important to be a people person, engage with the customers and ensure they enjoy their tour. The position spends multiple hours a day in the sun and on the water, out in all types of environmental conditions. Guides need to plan ahead, work hard, and be detail oriented in taking care of clients and equipment. This includes observing weather and wind to ensure clients are staying safe and helping them with paddle technique and maneuvers.
At the beginning of the season all guides go through ACA training as well as training in safety, repairs and more. Staff development opportunities are also offered during the summer season. No previous kayak guiding experience is required for this position, however applicants need to be athletic, and some paddling skills are required.
Compensation begins at $16/hr and goes up $28/hr based on experience and group size. There are possible additional bonuses mid season and end of the season. If applicants live on the mainland, we will assist with ferry fees. We do not have employee housing available but we will help look for options. An on island vehicle can be provided for transport from our beach shop out to the park. Other perks of the job include 40% off at our beach shop, free paddleboard usage after hours, frequent free coffee and snacks, flexible or set schedules available and awesome co-workers!
Guide Qualifications & Requirements
Love of the outdoors!
Sense of humor
Friendly people-centric attitude
Willing to spend the time with clients to make it the best experience possible
Reliable and punctual team player
Good communication and leadership skills
Some kayak, canoe or boating experience (we also provide training)
Well-groomed and organized
Good physical shape, ability to lift 65 pounds
Current First Aid and CPR
Other desired skills: Experience teaching or leading others, experience with outdoor activities like camping or hiking, handy gear or tools.
If you are interested in applying, please send your resume and cover letter to [Email hidden]. We look forward to hearing from you!
