Sea Kayak Guide / Lead Guide

Job Description:

Contemporary Adventures Kayaking & Exploration LLC is hiring seasonal sea kayak guides for the 2026 season in the Bayfield / Apostle Islands area. We are building a guide team for two operating lanes: APIS-connected trips, including Meyers Beach / mainland sea cave operations when conditions and access allow non-APIS trips from alternate launch areas such as sheltered coastal and nearshore routes This is a strong fit for people who want real responsibility, meaningful outdoor work, and the chance to build paddling, rescue, leadership, and client-management skills on Lake Superior. This is not a casual flatwater rental job. We are looking for people who can work professionally in changing Lake Superior conditions, communicate clearly with guests, and contribute to a disciplined, safety-minded operation.

Position Overview:

As a seasonal sea kayak guide, you will lead or assist guided kayak tours, manage safety and logistics, and help create a calm, professional, memorable guest experience. We are open to hiring both experienced lead guides and strong assistant-guide candidates with the right attitude, judgment, and baseline paddling ability. Expected hours vary week to week based on bookings, weather, and route assignment. This is a seasonal, trip-based position.

Responsibilities:

Lead or assist guided sea kayak tours Conduct guest check-in, gear fitting, and safety briefings Teach paddling basics, group procedures, and on-water expectations clearly Manage groups calmly and professionally on and off the water Help assess weather, waves, route conditions, and operational fit for the day Support launch logistics, kayak loading/unloading, and gear handling Help maintain equipment and keep trip systems organized Represent the company well with guests through strong communication and professionalism

What We're Looking For:

Strong paddling ability and sound judgment on the water Reliability, punctuality, and a professional attitude Good people skills and clear communication Ability to stay calm, attentive, and safety-focused with groups Physical ability to paddle, lift kayaks, and work outdoors in varying weather Willingness to work mornings, afternoons, weekends, and weather-dependent schedules Interest in helping build both a flagship APIS lane and a reliable non-APIS lane

Strongly Preferred:

Sea kayak guiding experience Great Lakes, coastal, or cold-water paddling experience ACA coastal kayaking certifications or comparable experience CPR / First Aid, WFA, WFR, or other relevant medical certification Rescue skills, towing systems, assisted rescue, and self-rescue proficiency Experience making conservative go / no-go decisions Outdoor teaching, trip leading, or group leadership experience Shuttle, trailer, or trip-logistics experience Training /

Certification Support:

For selected candidates, we are willing to pay for or help cover an early-June certification or training course during the first week of June. Final role level, APIS assignment, and pay rate will depend on qualifications, successful completion of training, skills assessment, and any required certifications or documentation. Role Levels /

Pay Range:

Compensation is primarily paid per tour at $80

• 125 depending on qualifications, certifications, leadership ability, and route assignment.

Higher daily totals are possible on longer or multiple-tour days.

Assistant / developing guide:

$80

• 95 per tour Lead guide: $95
• 110 per tour Highly qualified lead / park-qualified guide: $110
• 125 per tour

Why Join Us:

Work on Lake Superior in one of the most compelling paddling environments in the Midwest Build real leadership, rescue, and trip-management skills Be part of a small company where your judgment and growth matter Help shape a serious operation from the ground up Paid certification support available for selected candidates in early

June Good Fit For This Role:

You already guide, teach, or lead in outdoor settings You want more than a casual summer tourism job You are comfortable working hard, communicating well, and being accountable You want to grow into a stronger guide, not just show up for a paycheck You can contribute to a safety-minded, guest-focused Lake Superior operation Background checks are required for finalist or conditional-hire guide candidates. Any criminal-history review will be evaluated based on customer safety, job duties, time elapsed, and relevance to the role.

To Apply:

Please send: a short introduction your paddling / guiding resume or relevant experience summary current certifications your availability for June through September whether you are applying as an assistant guide, lead guide, or are open to either You may also include a short note about your experience with cold water, open water, rescue skills, teaching, or client leadership.

Pay:

$80.00

• $250.

00 per day People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person