Join Our Crew
Open Position: Sea Kayak Guide & Team Member
Season: Mid-April–Mid-October
Type: Part-Time / Seasonal
Pay: $18–21/hr + tips
Role Snapshot
Help guests connect to the Salish Sea through guided tours, skill instruction, and safe, welcoming experiences. You’ll also support rentals, clean & maintain gear, and contribute as a team player.
Potential for extended season or additional hours based on skills and interest.
Key Responsibilities
Guiding & Guest Experience
Lead sea kayak tours
Teach paddling and safety skills
Share local ecology, history, and marine life knowledge
Conduct safety briefings/debriefs
Foster an inclusive environment
Operations
Fit PFDs and kayaks
Assist with waivers
Clean and maintain equipment
Monitor weather and water conditions
Support rentals and logistics as needed
Requirements
Age & Certifications
Must be at least 20 years of age
Current First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain if hired)
Experience & Knowledge
Strong kayaking skills with experience in open-water paddling
Prior guiding and/or outdoor leadership experience preferred
Passion for marine ecosystems and wildlife, with the ability to educate guestsKnowledge of (or ability to quickly learn) local human and natural history of Whidbey and the Salish Sea
Availability & Practical Needs
Available to work weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day
Must be able to attend mandatory training in May
Have a cell phone and reliable transportation
Clean driving record
Physical & Environmental Readiness
Ability to lift and carry kayaks and gear (typically up to 65 lbs)
Comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather and marine conditions
Professional Skills & Traits
Reliable and punctual
Energetic with a positive attitude
Strong communication, decision-making, logistical, and organizational skills
Comfortable and effective in public speakingAbility to work as part of a team for the benefit of the team
Ability to remain calm, think clearly, and act quickly in case of emergency
Existing connections to Whidbey communities are a plus
Perks & Benefits
Tips
Training & skill development
Access to gearPro deals & discounts
Supportive, conservation-minded team
Stunning PNW work environment
Open Position: Rental Operation & Team Member
Season: May–September
Type: Part-Time / Seasonal
Pay: $17.15–18.50/hr + tips
Role Snapshot
Support guests through the full rental process, from gear selection to safe launch and return. Help create positive, safe, and welcoming water experiences.
Potential for extended season or additional hours.
Key Responsibilities
Help guests choose equipment
Provide safety and route guidance
Fit PFDs and boats
Launch/retrieve gear
Clean equipment
Monitor conditions
Assist across operations as needed
Requirements
Certifications & Skills
Age 16+
First Aid/CPR (or willing to obtain)
Some kayaking/SUP experience
Personal Qualities
Friendly, reliable, positive
Team-oriented
Calm under pressure
Good communicator
Practical
Weekend availability (Memorial Day–Labor Day)
Lift ~65 lbs
Cell phone + transportation
Clean driving record
Attend May training
Perks & Benefits
Tips
Training opportunities
Gear access
Pro deals & discounts
Scenic, community-focused workplace
How to Apply
We believe time on the Salish Sea is transformative. If you’re passionate about helping people connect with Whidbey’s waters, wildlife, and community, we’d love to hear from you.
Email your resume with a cover letter to info@whidbeyislandkayaking.com.
Strong cover letters are:
Well-written and properly formatted
Clear, thoughtful, and specific
Free of spelling/grammar errors
In your cover letter, consider sharing:
✔ What draws you in
What excites you about this role, the Salish Sea, Whidbey, or WIK’s purpose?
✔ Your story
How have your experiences and passions prepared you to contribute?
✔ How you handle change
Example of adapting, taking ownership, or thriving in a dynamic environment
✔ How you work with others
A time you collaborated, built relationships, or improved a process