Whitewater Kayak & Canoe Instructor (2026 Season)

For 53 years NOC has led the outdoor industry, taking more guests whitewater rafting and teaching more paddlers than any other outdoor recreation company. NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine as well as unmatched retail service, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning services. NOC career opportunities offer a rare combination of work in beautiful locations, a chance to grow skills and to share a passion for active outdoor recreation.

THIS POSTING IS FOR THE 2026 SEASON

JOB SUMMARY

Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to share your whitewater passion with others? Do you want to spend your summer on the river? Do you want to work in beautiful locations? If yes, then we encourage you to apply for our Kayak/Canoe Instructor position at NOC!

NOC is looking for certified & aspiring ACA Level 4 Whitewater Instructors to join our team for the 2026 season

Participating in our weeklong instructor training course is an excellent way to get your foot in the door and increase your chances of being considered for a position on our team. A week on the water with us will give you a chance to experience our teaching progressions, gain perspective on the school's teaching philosophy, and how our operations run daily.

For more information or to begin the ACA Instructor Development and Certification process, visit ACA Whitewater Kayak Instructor Training | Nantahala Outdoor Center (noc.com) [https://noc.com/courses/aca-kayak-instructor-certification/]

Disclaimer: Successful completion of a certification course in no way guarantees employment with NOC

NOC Instructors primarily instruct on Fontana Lake and local whitewater runs in the Southeast. Instructors may also have the opportunity to specialize in more advanced playboating or creekboating instruction and can also cross-train as SUP Instructors, Swiftwater Rescue Instructors and River Guides.

This position is classified as seasonal and reports to the Manager of the Paddling School. NOC is looking for Kayak and Canoe Instructors that are available to start in May. Ideal applicants will be available for a minimum of 4 months. Instructors must possess current WFA and CPR certifications. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, however preference will be given to applicants over 21 years of age due to insurance reasons regarding driving vehicles for NOC.

Responsibilities

• Teach whitewater kayaking and canoeing skills to groups of varying experience, age and number
• Create and modify lesson plans and logistics to accommodate the needs and abilities of students
• Transport guests to and from lakes and rivers in NOC vehicles (including 15-passenger vans and towing trailers) while adhering to all NOC and state laws, regulations, and policies
• Communicate with guests about local area information, other NOC activities and offerings, river and trip information, and provide general entertainment.
• Provide top-notch guest service to all guests, before, after, and during their instruction
• Clean and organize all gear used during the day, including, but not limited to: loading and unloading boats, washing all gear, and inspecting, fueling and cleaning vehicles
• Other tasks, such as: driving shuttle, repair and maintenance of gear or facilities, greeting guests at check-in, and assisting other NOC departments, as qualified and as assigned
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• At least 18 year of age
• Motivated self starter
• Willing to chaperon overnight on occasion for our kid's camps
• Detail oriented
• Ability to work as a team player to support departmental goals and objectives
• Ability to make decisions under pressure and think critically

• ACA Level 4 Whitewater Instructor certification
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR
• Valid drivers license and good driving record
• Great communication, teaching, and leadership skills
• Strong sense of guest service and risk reduction
• Extensive whitewater experience
• Enthusiasm for sharing outdoor adventures with others

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Ability to lift 50lbs
• Comfortable loading and unloading kayaks from vehicles and trailers
• A strong swimmer
• Capable of providing assistance to guests in regards to carrying boat, loading, gear
• Comfortable working in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, wind, rain)
• Comfortable paddling and performing rescues in Class III whitewater
• Comfortable working and driving in varying weather condition including curvy, mountain roads in remote locations

** Attending NOC's ACA Level 3/4 Instructor Development Workshop/Instructor Certification Exam in the spring is a great opportunity to get your foot in the door.**

The above noted job description is not intended to describe, in detail, the multitude of tasks that may be assigned but rather to provide a general sense of the responsibilities and expectations of this position. As the nature of business demands change, so too may the essential functions of this position.

Please note that as an employer with over 100 employees, NOC will be required to comply with any OSHA Vaccination and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard should that standard be enacted.

The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment including hiring, promotions, termination, training and compensation. The NOC does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic condition or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable. Furthermore, the NOC is committed to a work environment free of discrimination and harassment through respecting and valuing the diversity among employees and all those with whom the NOC does business.