Location: Various waterways and outdoor locations throughout Pennsylvania
Company Base: Delaware County, PA
Reports to: Program Director
Job Type: Seasonal and Part-Time with flexible, program-based scheduling
About Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC
Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC provides outdoor education and guided adventure programs that help people of all ages build confidence, practical skills, and meaningful connections to the outdoors. Our programs include hiking, backpacking, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), fishing, outdoor skills courses, youth programs, camps, and family adventures. We prioritize safety, inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and welcoming participants who are new to outdoor recreation.
Position Overview
Paddlesports Facilitators and Instructors lead and support a variety of paddling programs throughout the season, including kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, youth paddling programs, guided trips, private outings, and SUP Yoga events.
This position combines instruction with logistics and equipment management. Instructors are responsible not only for delivering safe, engaging paddling experiences but also for transporting, launching, and maintaining equipment. Staff will regularly tow company trailers loaded with kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to program locations.
The ideal candidate is an experienced paddler who enjoys teaching, is comfortable managing equipment and trailers, and can create welcoming outdoor experiences for participants of all ages and experience levels.
Role Growth and Advancement
Paddlesports Facilitators and Instructors begin with responsibilities appropriate to their experience level. As instructors gain familiarity with our programs and demonstrate strong leadership and safety practices, opportunities may expand to include:
- Leading advanced paddlesports courses and guided trips
- Serving as lead staff during large paddling events and youth camps
- Mentoring seasonal instructors and assistants
- Assisting with trip planning, logistics, and equipment management
- Supporting curriculum development and new paddlesports programming
- Coordinating special events and waterfront operations
Advancement is flexible and based on individual interests, certifications, experience, and availability.
Key Responsibilities
Program Instruction and Leadership
- Lead and assist kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding programs
- Teach beginner through intermediate paddling skills
- Support youth paddling programs, camps, and family events
- Assist with guided paddling trips and specialty programs
- Support SUP Yoga programs by transporting, launching, staging, and retrieving equipment
- Adapt instruction to varying ages, abilities, and experience levels
- Serve as a positive role model for participants
Equipment Transportation and Logistics
- Tow company trailers containing kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and related equipment
- Load, unload, secure, and transport boats safely
- Conduct pre-trip and post-trip equipment inspections
- Assist with equipment cleaning, storage, and maintenance
- Maintain organized gear inventories
- Ensure vehicles and trailers are operated safely and responsibly
Safety and Risk Management
- Maintain participant safety as the top priority
- Monitor weather, water, and environmental conditions
- Follow and enforce company safety protocols and Leave No Trace principles
- Conduct participant safety briefings and equipment checks
- Assess participant abilities and adapt programs accordingly
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and incidents
Participant Engagement
- Create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive learning environment
- Encourage confidence, skill development, and environmental stewardship
- Provide clear instruction, demonstrations, and constructive feedback
- Help participants overcome challenges and build comfort on the water
Program and Team Support
- Assist with program setup and breakdown
- Support fellow instructors during programs and camps
- Assist with trip preparation, rosters, and logistics
- Participate in occasional staff training and professional development opportunities
Communication and Professionalism
- Communicate clearly and professionally with participants, families, and staff
- Represent Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC in a positive and professional manner
- Maintain professionalism both on and off the water
Qualifications
Required
- Current ACA Instructor Certification in at least one paddlesports discipline (kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard)
- Current First Aid and CPR certification
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
- Reliable vehicle capable of towing a trailer
- Demonstrated experience towing and maneuvering trailers
- Successful completion of a company trailer towing and driving evaluation prior to hire
- Compliance with Pennsylvania ACT 153 clearances and requirements when working with youth programs
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Physical ability to lift, carry, load, and transport paddlesports equipment
- Physical ability to lead active outdoor programs in varied weather and environmental conditions
Preferred
- Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
- ACA certifications in multiple paddlesports disciplines
- Experience teaching youth, families, and beginner paddlers
- Experience leading guided paddling trips
- Experience managing paddlesports equipment and trailer operations
- Knowledge of local waterways throughout Pennsylvania
Scheduling Model
Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC uses a quarterly, assignment-based scheduling model designed to be flexible while setting clear expectations.
- Staff are scheduled on a quarterly basis
- Assignments are sent by text or email with details including date, time, location, and role
- You may accept or decline any assignment with no obligation or penalty
- Once you accept an assignment, it is a firm commitment
This model works well for staff who want flexible, part-time outdoor work while maintaining reliability for accepted assignments.
Benefits and Perks
- Free Gear Rentals: Access Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC equipment for personal use
- Pro Deals and Industry Discounts: Eligible staff may access outdoor industry pro deals
- Free or Discounted Trips and Programs: Join select Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC trips and programs at no cost or a significant discount when space allows
- Skill Development: Build leadership and instructional skills in outdoor education and paddlesports instruction
- Supportive Team Environment: Work alongside experienced, mission-driven instructors
- Flexible Scheduling: Program-based scheduling that fits a variety of lifestyles
- Meaningful Work: Spend your time outdoors helping people connect with nature through paddlesports and outdoor recreation
Schedule and Compensation
This position offers flexible scheduling, including weekdays, weekends, and occasional evenings. Hours vary by season and program demand. Compensation is competitive and based on experience, certifications, responsibilities, and trailer towing experience.
How to Apply
Please submit:
- Resume
- Brief cover letter describing your paddling experience and interest in teaching
- Relevant certifications
- Summary of your trailer towing experience, including types of trailers and frequency of use
Selected candidates will be required to complete a trailer towing and driving evaluation prior to employment.