Canoe Program Specialist

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is seeking a Canoe Program Specialist to work at various Minneapolis lakes and ponds during the 2026 season.

The Canoe Program Specialist will:

• Provide canoe instruction to children, teens, families, and adults
• Lead canoe programming for a variety of audiences on Minneapolis waterbodies
• Ensure safety of participants while on the water
• Maintain inventory and quality of all canoes and associated equipment
• Drive a truck with six canoe-rack trailer, conduct regular evaluations of truck and trailer condition, load, unload, and secure canoes on trailer.
• Communicate with group leaders and program participants to ensure successful canoeing experiences
• Complete administrative tasks necessary to document and evaluate all canoe programs
• Provide direction and leadership to the Canoe Support Educator
• Other duties as assigned

Required Skills & Abilities

• Current Lifeguard certification or Wilderness Water Safety certification with First Aid/CPR certification
• At least 2 full seasons of demonstrated experience in canoe instruction and leading canoe programs
• Demonstrated ability working well with children and diverse populations
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, communication, and public speaking skills
• Excellent customer service skills, positive attitude, and adaptability
• Must be able to accomplish tasks with little direct supervision
• Must be able to consistently arrive for shifts and programs prepared and on-time
• Must be able to repeatedly lift and carry 50 lbs., hike uneven terrain, and teach effectively in all weather conditions
• Valid driver’s license
• Light trailer towing experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in canoe safety and instruction
• Working knowledge of Minnesota and urban water quality issues
• Training in environmental education, ecology, natural history, teaching, or similar
• Experience working in water education programming
• Ability to communicate fluently in a second language: Spanish, Hmong, or Somali preferred.

Hours

Primarily June through August, with potential for extending the season into spring and fall with a limited schedule to start and end. Tentative start date is June 11th and final day of the summer season is August 28th. Hours include daytime and evenings up to 40 hours a week and typically fall on Tues-Sat between 8am to 9pm with occasional shifts outside these days/hours. The exact schedule will vary depending on programming each week. Request for additional support on Saturday, September 12th to assist with the Minneapolis Monarch Festival/Festival de la Monarca.