Join the Gaia Guides Team

Because it feels like the dream summer job. You get to spend your days on the water, paddling under the sunshine with the San Francisco Bay sparkling around you and the epic city skyline in the distance. Helping kids build confidence, and try new things, all while hanging with a fun, supportive crew tha. It’s meaningful work wrapped in adventure, and every day brings fresh energy, good vibes, and moments you’ll remember long after summer ends.

Think good vibes, and a team that genuinely has each other’s backs. At Gaia Guides, we keep things positive, supportive, and laid-back all while staying sharp about safety and professionalism. We love inspiring kids to adventure and connect with nature. It’s the kind of environment where you feel welcomed, valued, and encouraged to grow.

We love people who bring upbeat energy, strong communication, and a “jump in and help” attitude. Our best staff are flexible when plans shift (because: wind), patient with kids, confident on the water, and able to stay calm and clear-headed even when days get busy. If you’re someone who brings positivity, professionalism, and a sense of fun, you’ll thrive here.

From day one, you’ll get hands-on training throughout the summer, you’ll have daily check-ins, supportive mentoring, and real-time feedback that helps you grow your skills, build confidence, and feel solid in your role. We create an environment where you’re encouraged to ask questions, try new things, and step into more responsibility as you’re ready. Staff are celebrated for their strengths, coached through challenges, and given real opportunities to grow. It’s why so many of our team members come back year after year

Everyone is welcome here. We intentionally create an inclusive, kind, and respectful space where all campers and staff feel safe and supported. We value diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and identities and we work hard to make the outdoors accessible, positive, and meaningful for every kid and every team member.

Every day is active, outdoors, and full of energy. You’ll spend most of your time on the water or at the marina, working closely with your team as you lead paddles, play games, and guide kids through new adventures. It’s fast-paced in the best way with sun on your shoulders, wind in your hair, and a steady rhythm of teamwork and positivity.

We keep the stoke high. Between morning paddles, teamwork, music on the dock, sunshine, and spontaneous moments of camp magic, there’s always something fun happening. Even on windy days or full schedules, the team leans into humor, connection, and the “we’ve got this” mindset that makes the job feel more like an adventure than work. We celebrate wins, lift each other up, and make sure no one ever feels like they’re doing it alone.

You’ll be part of an upbeat, outdoorsy crew that loves working with kids, staying active, and spending the summer on the water. Our team is a mix of returning instructors,jr instructors, interns, paddlers, educators, and adventure lovers who bring great energy and good vibes to every day. Everyone shows up ready to support one another, collaborate, and create an unforgettable experience for campers.