Naturalist Kayak Guide (Seasonal)

Poulsbo y Port Gamble, Washington

Olympic Outdoor Center is seeking a knowledgeable, engaging Seasonal Naturalist Kayak Guide to join our guiding team for the summer season.

This unique role combines kayaking leadership with environmental interpretation. Naturalist Guides serve as the ecosystem expert on our tours—sharing insights into the marine environment, local wildlife, and the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence.

Naturalist Guides lead and support both:
• Bioluminescence Night Tours (Port Gamble)
• Wildlife & Scenic Kayak Tours (Poulsbo / Liberty Bay)

This position is ideal for a college student or early-career professional pursuing work in environmental science, marine biology, ecology, outdoor education, or a related field.

Department: Programs
Employment Type: Part-time/temporary

Closing Date: March 31, 2026

Job Description

Status: Seasonal, Part-Time
Season: Summer (May – September)
Hours: Approximately 10–25 hours per week
Schedule: Includes evening and weekend shifts (Bioluminescence tours typically run 8:00pm – 12:00am / 1:00am)
Locations: Port Gamble Waterfront (night tours) & Poulsbo / Liberty Bay (wildlife tours)

Key Responsibilities

Naturalist-Led Guest Experience

Provide engaging interpretation of local marine and coastal ecosystems
Share knowledge of bioluminescence, plankton, tides, and nocturnal shoreline life
Help guests connect with the natural environment through storytelling and science
Answer questions and enhance tours with educational, place-based insight

Guided Tours (Bioluminescence + Wildlife)

Lead safe, welcoming kayak tours for guests of all experience levels
Provide pre-tour briefings on paddling basics, safety expectations, and tour flow
Guide groups at an appropriate pace while maintaining strong cohesion
Highlight wildlife sightings such as seabirds, seals, otters, and other marine species

Safety & On-Water Leadership

Maintain awareness of weather, tides, currents, and marine traffic
Make sound decisions to ensure participant safety, especially during low-light tours
Respond calmly to unexpected conditions or guest needs
Support Olympic Outdoor Center’s strong safety culture and professionalism

Equipment & Waterfront Support

Assist with setup and breakdown of kayaks, safety gear, and tour equipment
Ensure gear is cleaned, organized, and stored properly after each trip
Perform basic inspections and report maintenance or safety issues

Cross-Training & Team Support (Optional)

Depending on scheduling needs, Naturalist Guides may also assist with:

Rental associate shifts and guest check-in
Waterfront logistics and gear support
Events or special group programs

Qualifications

Required

Strong interest in environmental education and outdoor guiding
Comfort kayaking in marine environments and leading groups on the water
Ability to communicate clearly and enthusiastically with guests
Current (or ability to obtain) CPR and First Aid certification
Dependable availability for weekend and evening tour schedules

Preferred

Degree (or currently pursuing a degree) in a related field, such as: Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Outdoor Education, Natural Resources
Prior experience in interpretation, education, guiding, or working with the public
Familiarity with Puget Sound ecosystems, tides, and local species
Experience guiding at night or in low-light conditions is a plus

Skills & Attributes

Curious, personable, and passionate about the natural world
Confident public speaker and engaging storyteller
Calm, safety-minded, and adaptable on the water
Strong teamwork, professionalism, and reliability
Enjoys working outdoors in changing conditions

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift and carry kayaks and gear (up to ~75 lbs)
Ability to work on docks, beaches, and uneven terrain
Ability to paddle for extended periods and assist guests as needed
Ability to support evening operations during night tours

At-Will Employment Statement

This job description is not intended to cover every duty or responsibility. Staff may be asked to perform additional tasks as needed to support Olympic Outdoor Center operations. Employment is at-will and may be terminated by either party at any time.

How to Apply

To apply, send a short introduction and resume to:

programs@olympicoutdoorcenter.com

Help guests discover the glowing waters, wildlife, and ecosystems of the Kitsap Peninsula.

About Olympic Outdoor Center

Our employees have been paddling on the rivers, in the surf and touring all over the world since 1986. It is our goal to provide a fun, safe environment and community for all; in order to nurture and inspire exploration in the outdoors.

Olympic Outdoor Center has employed more than 400 people in its 40 years of business. You could be one of them too. Become a part of our diverse team of instructors, tour guides, shop associates, rental staff and managers! Embrace the outdoors and inspire others with your love for teaching. Connect with us to learn about the exciting openings available.