Paddle Tour Guide Riverbound Sports Tempe, AZ Job Details Part-time | Contract $22 - $27 an hour 10 hours ago Benefits Employee discount Flexible schedule Qualifications CPR Certification Customer communication Customer service Driver's License Attention to detail AED Certification Time management First aid and CPR Full Job Description The Paddle Tour Guide is a key part of Riverbound's customer experience and day-to-day tour operations. Guides are the face of the company during the guest experience and play an important role in turning the company into an exceptional on-water adventure. Ultimately, the guide helps fulfill the mission of getting people outdoors, onto the water, and excited about paddling while maintaining the high standards of safety, service, and professionalism. The paddle guide is responsible for creating safe, enjoyable, and memorable paddle experiences for our guests. Responsibilities The Paddle Tour Guide is responsible for helping prepare equipment before each tour, ensuring guests have properly fitted safety gear, conducting pre-trip safety briefings, leading the group on the water, monitoring changing conditions, and maintaining a positive and professional atmosphere throughout the experience. The role requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, confidence on the water, attention to safety, and the ability to work effectively with guests of varying ages, experience levels, and physical abilities. 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. 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 collaboratively as part of a team Comfort working outdoors in extreme weather for extended periods Strong organizational and time-management skills 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.)

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 competition/games or interpretive storytelling when applicable.

Operational Support:

Complete required tour documentation and waivers Assist with equipment and facility upkeep Load/unload gear and prepare equipment for each outing 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.

Join Our Team:

If you are a reliable, energetic, and detail-oriented professional who enjoys sharing outdoor adventures with others, we encourage you to apply. Be part of a growing organization dedicated to inspiring unforgettable on-water experiences.

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.enthusiastically Strong customer service orientation focused on creating positive guest experiences Knowledge of wilderness safety practices, including CPR, first aid, and emergency rescue techniques Exceptional communication skills for storytelling, guiding, and building rapport with guests of all ages Experience in outdoor work environments with physical stamina for standing, paddling, and navigating natural terrains Effective time management to coordinate tour schedules smoothly while maintaining flexibility for weather or unforeseen circumstances Demonstrated teaching ability to instruct beginners in paddling techniques and water safety fundamentals Embark on an adventure that combines leadership, storytelling, outdoor expertise, and customer engagement. Bring your passion for nature and guiding others to create unforgettable paddleboarding experiences!

Pay:

$22.00 - $27.00 per hour Expected hours: 6.0 - 30.0 per week

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexible schedule Application Question(s): Are you able to lift and carry 40 lbs?

License/Certification:

CPR Certification (Required) Driver's license (Required) American canoe association Instructor certification (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person