Join the Team Kayak Guide & Naturalist – Lead Small-Group Eco Tours in the Everglades & Marco Island
Apply to Shurr Adventures“ Where Passion Meets Purpose
This is our 21st year operating our business in Everglades National Park, and we’re looking for professional, humble, and enthusiastic outdoor guides to join our team of kayak naturalists.
We’re a small, family-run business that genuinely cares about our people, our guests, and our impact. Our guides don’t just paddle they teach, inspire, and explore.
If you love spotting wildlife, sharing knowledge, paddling near alligators, and leading small groups through one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth this might be your dream job.
About Shurr Adventures
Founded and owned by husband-and-wife team Justin and Alli, both lifelong outdoor professionals
21 seasons in Everglades National Park and also operate tours in Yellowstone National Park during the summer and fall
Small group tours only (1 guide per 8 guests max) for safety, quality, and connection
Guests leave us consistent 5-star reviews which means strong tips for guides
Guides often work independently in the field after training you’ll lead your own tours
We value professionalism, humility, and a sense of purpose in the outdoors
What We’re Looking For
Previous professional guiding experience (kayak, rafting, hiking, etc.)
OR a degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Outdoor Education, etc.
OR real-world outdoor & customer service experience we value skills over resumes
Passion for nature, people, learning, and showing up with a great attitude
Confidence paddling solo near large wildlife like alligators
Job Requirements
Comfortable kayaking 8 miles/day in hot, humid, buggy, and rugged conditions
Able to lift 60 to 90 lbs when moving kayaks and gear
Confident working independently after training often just you and your group
Strong communication and people skills guests ask a LOT of questions
Willing to read and study materials we send before arrival (including books)
Able to back up a van & trailer (or willing to learn quickly)
Must be reliable, punctual, organized, and drama-free
Clean driving record & able to pass a background check
Comfortable guiding within a few feet of 10+ ft alligators
Willing to load boats, clean gear, and help with general team duties
Must enjoy sharing nature, wildlife, and conservation with a wide variety of people
Patience, kindness, and a love of the outdoors are absolutely essential
Must complete our free 8 to 10 day hands-on training program (shorter for locals with strong Everglades experience)
Study Before You Arrive
The Everglades is a complex and diverse ecosystem. Guests will expect you to speak knowledgeably about wildlife, history, and conservation.
We send pay for and send you two books and prep materials in advance reading and preparing before arrival is essential to succeed in our program and lead confident tours.
Pay & Schedule
$85 to $105 per half-day tour (2 to 3 hours water time)
Full-day trips pay $160
$15 bonus for every 5-star review with your name
We aim for 2 scheduled days off per week.
Housing: Your Own Spot in Paradise
RV or camper required (no tent or car camping)
Site is 30 yards from the water, with:
Showers
Laundry
Fishing dock
Tiki hut & grills
Normally $900/month, subsidized to $450/month for guides
3-minute bike or 10 minute boats and gear van
No staff housing drama this is your own peaceful space
Great for fishing, quiet mornings, sunsets, and Havana café runs
Hiring 2 to 3 Positions
Couples or friends who work well together are welcome to apply
Year-round opportunities for the right fit
Locations
Chokoloskee, FL (Everglades National Park)
Marco Island, FL (40 minutes away guides rotate between both but the turner river is 80 percent of our tours right now we are getting busier and busier in marco island )
Holiday Availability Required during December
Guides must be available to work between December 20th and January 8, our busiest time of year. We have Christmas Day off. This is our busiest time of the season. We like to be upfront with the guys to let them know.
How to Apply
Please send your resume and a short note about your kayak and outdoor experience to:
justinshurr@gmail.com
Please Let us know:
What type of kayaking or guiding experience you have
Any relevant outdoor skills or nature background
Why you’d be a good fit for guiding in the Everglades
Join Us for Season 21!
Shurr Adventures is more than just a job it’s a lifestyle rooted in integrity, nature, and connection.
If you’re a kind, hard-working, nature-loving outdoor professional ready to grow, paddle, and be part of something special.
we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and guide where the wild things are.
With gratitude,
Justin & Alli Shurr
Shurr Adventures
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
Employee discount
Flexible schedule
Application Question(s):
Do you have a RV or a camper for one of the spots we have available? There is no housing available except for the spots we have and guides cannot sleep in a vehicle there or off the grid . It just doesn’t work unfortunately. If you do have an RV or a camper or willing to get one your stone throw from kayaking into the 10,000 islands these are highly sought after spots that are already all taken. We have three of them.