Job Description
Job Description
Experienced Kayak Guide - Naples Adventure Paddle Tours
Are you someone who truly lives the outdoor lifestyle? Do you breathe saltwater and swamp air?
We're seeking experienced outdoor professionals who have chosen to make the wilderness their way of life. This isn't a job for weekend warriors or indoor enthusiasts—we need guides who hunt, fish, camp, hike, and understand what it means to live connected to nature.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading kayak tours through Naples' pristine wilderness areas
- Independently managing groups in challenging outdoor environments
- Loading/unloading 80+ lb kayaks and towing equipment trailers
- Performing wilderness rescues when necessary
- Educating guests about local ecosystems and wildlife
Compensation & Benefits
- $25/hour + tips (tips average $60-100 per tour based on group size)
- Year-round position available: Part-time or Full-time
- Housing subsidies available
- Paid continuing education and certifications
- Free use of company boats, kayaks, and outdoor equipment
- Outdoor gear discounts
- Clear advancement opportunities with paid certifications (Captain's License, ACA Kayak Training, Marketing Certifications)
NON-NEGOTIABLE REQUIREMENTS
If these qualifications aren't clearly listed on your resume, do not apply:
Experience Requirements (MUST HAVE):
- Previous outdoor guiding experience OR
- Experience teaching/instructing large groups in outdoor settings
- Demonstrated background in outdoor recreation (hunting, fishing, camping, hiking)
Education/Certifications (PREFERRED):
- Environmental sciences background OR
- Florida Master Naturalist certification OR
- Similar continuing education in natural sciences
Physical & Legal Requirements:
- Physical strength to handle 80+ lb kayaks independently
- Ability to perform wilderness rescues
- Clean driving record and reliable transportation capable of towing light trailers
- Pass background check
- Comfortable working independently in remote locations
Company Culture
Our team lives for the outdoors. Our favorite activities include fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, and mountain biking. If your preferred pastimes are indoor activities like golf or video games, this position is not for you.
We're extremely selective because our guides are the foundation of our company. We want someone who has chosen this lifestyle, not someone looking for an easy outdoor job.
Application Requirements
- Resume clearly showing relevant outdoor experience and qualifications
- Cover letter paragraph: This is your first impression—take time to sell us on why you're the right fit. Tell us about your outdoor lifestyle, relevant experience, and why you want this specific position.
What We're Looking For
Someone who:
- Lives and breathes the outdoor lifestyle
- Has proven experience in outdoor leadership roles
- Understands the physical and mental demands of wilderness guiding
- Wants to grow with our company through additional certifications
- Can work independently and handle emergency situations
- Sees this as more than just a job—it's a calling
Ready to start immediately. Serious applicants only.
We are not hiring just anyone. We're looking for the right person who fits our culture and has the experience to back it up. If you don't meet these specific requirements, please save everyone's time and look elsewhere.