Kayak Rental Attendant

Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & EcoVentures is hiring a Watersports Rental Attendant to operate our kayak and paddle board rentals at Lido Key's Ted Sperling Park.

Primary responsibilities include preparing, maintaining, and launching vessels for guests with wide-ranging abilities and needs, and doing so with stellar customer service. This is a great opportunity for a watersports enthusiast who wants to be a central part of an exciting eco-tourism business in a beautiful outdoor environment.

The Watersports Rental Attendant position is meant for a sociable and engaging individual with a desire to create safe, clean, and fun experiences for Happy Paddler's guests. The Watersports Rental Attendant is expected to engage with guests in a sincerely caring, fun, and enthusiastic way and to have a natural instinct for providing service that surpasses their expectations. The successful applicant will be a team player and is expected to work alongside other Happy Paddler staff to manage rental operations and equipment care.

Applicants should have experience providing excellence in hospitality and safety. This is a physically demanding position and applicants should be physically fit (able to repeatedly lift 60 pounds) and able to work in a range of challenging weather conditions (for example, hot and humid Florida summers). Paddling experience is beneficial, but not necessary. Applicants with a familiarity and love for the area are especially encouraged to apply.

Duties will include (1) preparing watersports equipment for reserved and walk-up rental customers, (2) providing guests with excellent customer service and assistance while preparing them for their rental excursion, (3) thoroughly cleaning, maintaining, and repairing fleet equipment on a daily basis, and (4) consistently offering the kind of five-star, yet warm, friendly service that is central to our business philosophy.

This is a part-time position, with the typical number of hours worked per week fluctuating depending on the time of year. Pay rate is $16/hour tips commission based on the number of kayaks/SUPs rented. The Rental Attendant is expected to work approximately 5 days per week with the hours of 8am-5pm or until all rental equipment is returned, cleaned, and stored. Holiday and weekend shifts are required. The Rental Attendant will be expected to use their vehicle to tow a kayak trailer to and from the launch site. We expect this new position to begin in February, 2025. Position will remain open until filled. We look forward to hearing from you!

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Enjoy engaging with guests in a positive and friendly manner to provide information about Happy Paddler rentals and tours, the paddling area, etc.
• Use vehicle to tow a kayak trailer to and from the launch site.
• Work independently to prepare all equipment prior to guests' rental time.
• Provide basic kayak and SUP paddling instructions.
• Go over the map of the paddling area and assist guests in choosing appropriate paddling routes that match their interests and abilities.
• Go over safety instructions and weather concerns and advise guests about maintaining safety and comfort while out on the water.
• Help customers get fitted in their PFDs, kayaks, SUPs, etc.
• Assist customers in getting in and out of the boats.
• Load and unload kayaks and SUPs on and off of trailer for rentals.
• Help load/unload kayaks and SUPs for tours.
• Clean and maintain kayaks, SUPs, PFDs, and other equipment.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment.

Qualifications:

• Legally allowed to work in the United States.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Must possess a vehicle capable of towing a kayak trailer to and from launch sites.
• Experience and proven expertise in hospitality, guest services, etc., especially in an outdoor setting.
• Physically fit and able to repeatedly lift 50 pound vessels safely.
• Able to work in a variety of weather conditions (e.g., hot and humid, cold and wet, etc.).
• Must be able to work independently while also communicating effectively with guests and fellow staff members.
• Applicants with a personal connection and knowledge of the local area may be given preference.
• Adhere drug-free and tobacco-free workplace policy.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: From $16.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week

Schedule:

• Day shift

Supplemental Pay:

• Commission pay
• Tips

Application Question(s):

• Do you possess a vehicle capable of towing a kayak trailer to and from launch sites?
• Do you currently live in the Sarasota/Bradenton area?

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16