Open Water Guide Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of water-based activities, the focus on open water guides has never been sharper.

Adventure tourism grows unabated, and with each wave, the demand for skilled individuals who can navigate, promote, and ensure safety in our aquatic environments escalates.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from an open water guide?

Whether you are:

• An adventurous spirit trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of open water guiding,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable open water guide job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Open Water Guide Duties and Responsibilities

Open Water Guides are responsible for leading individuals or groups in water-based activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.

They are experts in water safety, navigation, wildlife, and environmental conservation.

Open Water Guides have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants during water activities
• Provide instruction and guidance on water safety, equipment usage, and activity techniques
• Plan and lead trips in bodies of water, like oceans, lakes, and rivers
• Monitor weather conditions and water currents for safety purposes
• Perform rescues and administer first aid if necessary
• Inform participants about local wildlife, conservation efforts, and local history
• Maintain equipment and ensure it is in good working order
• Assist participants with equipment fitting and adjustments
• Enforce all safety rules and regulations set by the company or local authorities
• Organize and manage group dynamics to ensure a positive experience for all participants

 

Open Water Guide Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Open Water Guide to lead our adventure tours.

The Open Water Guide’s responsibilities include ensuring the safety and well-being of our guests, leading water-based activities such as snorkeling and kayaking, and providing informative and engaging commentary on the local marine life and environment.

Our ideal candidate is passionate about the ocean, has a thorough understanding of water safety protocols, and possesses excellent communication skills.

Ultimately, the Open Water Guide will provide our guests with unforgettable and safe experiences in the great outdoors.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead exciting water-based activities
• Ensure all safety protocols and procedures are followed
• Provide informative and interesting commentary on local marine life and environment
• Maintain equipment and conduct regular safety checks
• Assist guests with equipment and provide instructions
• Respond to emergencies and provide first aid if necessary
• Provide excellent customer service to ensure guest satisfaction
• Work with team members to coordinate tours and activities

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Open Water Guide or similar role
• Strong swimming skills and physical fitness
• Knowledge of water safety protocols and procedures
• Familiarity with local marine life and environment
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• First Aid and CPR certifications
• Ability to work well in a team
• A passion for outdoor activities and the environment

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Travel and adventure opportunities
• Access to outdoor gear and equipment

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Open Water Guide
• Work Environment: This job will primarily be outdoors, in varying weather conditions and in water-based environments. Physical fitness is essential.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Tour Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Seasonal positions may also be available
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Open Water Guide Do?

Open Water Guides typically work for outdoor adventure or travel companies, resorts, and cruise ships.

They may also work independently, offering their services to tourists and locals who are interested in exploring open water bodies.

Their primary responsibility is to lead groups on open water excursions such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.

They ensure the safety of the group members by providing necessary training and information on using the equipment and handling emergency situations.

They are also responsible for explaining the rules and regulations related to water activities and ensuring that all participants adhere to them to avoid mishaps or harmful impact on marine life and environment.

Open Water Guides have an extensive knowledge of the local marine life and ecosystem.

They share this knowledge with the group, making the excursion not only fun but also educational.

They are also skilled in handling any water-related emergencies and are trained in basic first aid and CPR.

Moreover, they are responsible for checking the weather conditions and water currents before setting out to ensure the safety of the group.

In addition, they are tasked with maintaining the equipment used in the activities, ensuring it is in good condition and safe for use.

Their job also involves managing logistics, such as transporting equipment and participants to and from the activity location.

Good customer service is an essential part of their role, as they need to ensure all participants have a positive and memorable experience.

 

Open Water Guide Qualifications and Skills

An Open Water Guide should have a set of unique skills and qualifications to ensure the safety and enjoyment of their clients, including:

• Scuba diving and snorkeling skills to guide clients safely in open water environments.
• Strong swimming skills and physical stamina to endure long hours in water.
• Knowledge of marine life, ecosystems and the ability to identify potential hazards.
• Exceptional communication skills to provide clear instructions and safety briefings to clients.
• Interpersonal skills to build rapport with clients, ensuring they feel comfortable and safe during the trip.
• First Aid and CPR certified to handle emergencies and provide immediate care when necessary.
• Problem-solving skills to deal with unexpected situations that may arise during the trip.
• Customer service skills to handle clients’ inquiries, complaints, and feedback professionally.
• Navigation and map-reading abilities to guide tours efficiently and accurately.

 

Open Water Guide Experience Requirements

Open Water Guides typically begin their journey in the field by obtaining a recreational open water diving certification.

This gives them a solid grounding in diving skills, safety procedures, and underwater navigation.

To take on the role of an Open Water Guide, several years of experience in recreational diving is often required.

Experience in various diving environments, such as freshwater and saltwater, as well as different climates, can be beneficial.

In addition to diving experience, many tour companies require their Open Water Guides to have some experience in customer service or hospitality.

This ensures that they are comfortable interacting with customers, can handle emergencies calmly and professionally, and can provide an enjoyable and educational experience for guests.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have additional certifications such as Rescue Diver or Divemaster, enhancing their rescue skills and ability to lead diving excursions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have experience in a leadership role, such as Lead Guide or Dive Instructor, and may be ready for more managerial positions or specialized guiding roles.

Additional qualifications, like training in first aid and CPR, knowledge of marine life, and familiarity with the local diving environment, can also be beneficial.

 

Open Water Guide Education and Training Requirements

Open Water Guides typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

A significant part of the training involves gaining practical experience in water-based activities, and a proven ability to swim is essential.

Most employers will require Open Water Guides to hold a certification from a recognized organization, such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI).

These programs involve theoretical and practical training, culminating in a certification that proves the individual’s competence in open water guiding.

In addition, Open Water Guides often need a First Aid and CPR certification, as well as an oxygen provider certification, to deal with any emergencies that might occur during trips.

Knowledge of local marine life, weather patterns, and sea conditions is often required, and this knowledge is typically gained through experience and self-study.

While not necessary, a degree in marine biology, ecology, or a related field can provide a solid foundation for understanding the marine environment.

Additional training in customer service and group management can also be beneficial, as Open Water Guides often lead groups of people and must ensure the safety and satisfaction of all participants.

Continuous education and recertification are usually necessary to keep up with changing safety standards and new developments in the field.

 

Open Water Guide Salary Expectations

The average wage for an Open Water Guide is around $25.00 (USD) per hour.

However, this can vary greatly depending on experience, geographical location, and the specific company or organization one is working for.

Earnings may also be influenced by the season, as this type of work is often more prevalent during warmer months.

 

Open Water Guide Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Open Water Guide need?

Open Water Guides should have strong swimming skills and a comprehensive knowledge of marine safety practices.

They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with tourists and provide clear instructions.

An understanding of local marine life, weather patterns, and sea currents can also be beneficial.

 

Do Open Water Guides need a degree?

Open Water Guides generally do not need a degree, but they must have relevant certifications such as a CPR and First Aid certification and a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) certification.

Some positions may require further specialized qualifications, such as a Rescue Diver or Divemaster certificate.

 

What should you look for in an Open Water Guide resume?

First and foremost, check for the necessary certifications like CPR and First Aid, and PADI certification.

Look for experience in open water guiding, such as previous positions as a dive guide or marine tour guide.

Any additional skills such as knowledge of marine life, ability to handle emergency situations, or fluency in multiple languages can also be an asset.

 

What qualities make a good Open Water Guide?

A good Open Water Guide is enthusiastic about their job and has a passion for marine life.

They should be patient, especially when dealing with beginners, and have the ability to calm nervous divers.

They should have excellent observational skills to ensure the safety of their group and be able to take quick action in case of emergencies.

They should also be able to work as part of a team and have good physical fitness.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Open Water Guide?

Finding a qualified Open Water Guide can be challenging, especially in areas where open water activities are popular.

It is important to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract the best candidates.

Having a strong training program in place can also be helpful in preparing less experienced candidates for the role.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the depths of what it truly means to be an open water guide.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about steering the boat.

It’s about navigating life’s adventures, one wave at a time.

With our comprehensive open water guide job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your next journey.

But why limit yourself to the horizon?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your compass to precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to outshine the competition.

Remember:

Every wave navigated is a part of the larger voyage.

Let’s embark on that journey. Together.

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