Surf Instructor $24-$26/hr in Palm Desert, California at DSRT SURF

Surf Instructor

DSRT SURF isn't a traditional workplace, and we're not looking for traditional people.

We're building a fast growing hospitality and lifestyle brand where surf culture, guest experience, and high performance come together in a unique way. We're looking for people who thrive in energetic environments, take pride in their work, and want to help build something special from the ground up.

This is a fully on-site role in Palm Desert, California.

What You'll Do

The Surf Instructor is the face of the guest learning experience at DSRT SURF, delivering safe, engaging, and high quality surf lessons in our man-made lagoon. This role is split into two levels based on lesson type and instructional skill: Surf Instructor I leads beginner lessons and foundational guest progression, while Surf Instructor II leads advanced lessons, refining technique and performance for more experienced surfers.

• Teach beginner surf lessons, covering ocean and lagoon safety, board handling, pop-up technique, and wave etiquette (Surf Instructor I)
• Teach advanced surf lessons, including maneuver coaching, wave selection strategy, and performance progression for experienced guests (Surf Instructor II)
• Assess guest skill level on arrival and place them in the appropriate lesson track
• Maintain a strong safety presence in and around the water at all times, including active scanning and immediate response to guest distress
• Communicate clearly with Water Safety staff to coordinate lesson timing, wave sets, and lagoon capacity
• Deliver a guest experience that is encouraging, energetic, and true to DSRT SURF's culture and brand
• Maintain and care for lesson equipment including boards, leashes, and safety gear
• Support Water Academy programming and other surf coaching initiatives as needed
• Provide feedback to the Wave Manager on guest progression, lesson flow, and coaching needs

What You Bring

• Real experience in the water, surfing and helping others get better at it
• For Surf Instructor II, you've coached or trained intermediate to advanced surfers on real maneuvers, not just the basics
• You can swim strong and stay comfortable in an active water environment all shift long
• Current CPR/First Aid certification is a plus; if you don't have it yet, we'll get you StarGuard Elite trained after you're hired
• You can break things down simply, whether you're teaching a first-timer or coaching someone dialing in a cutback
• A schedule that flexes with us, including weekends, holidays, and our busiest guest hours

Who You Are

• You love the ocean and surfing
• You are patient, but also energetic
• You have a flexible schedule
• You stay calm during high-pressure situations and can problem-solve and prioritize quickly
• You are reliable and keep your commitments
• You genuinely wish to teach
• You see Surf Instructor as the role itself, not a stepping stone to something else.
• You hold safety certifications (e.g. Lifeguard or EMT)
• You have a great sense of humor and like to be social
• You think kids are rad
• You are a positive and healthy role model

Current Work Environment

DSRT SURF is in active operations as North America’s large man-made Wave Garden surf lagoon. This role works outdoors in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with direct guest interaction in and around the water.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to swim proficiently and perform sustained physical activity in and around water
• Ability to lift and carry surfboards and related equipment
• Ability to stand, walk, and remain in the water for extended periods
• Exposure to sun, heat, and outdoor conditions for the duration of scheduled shifts

Compensation

• Surf Instructor I (Beginner Lessons): $24.00 per hour
• Surf Instructor II (Advanced Lessons): $26.00 per hour

This is a non-exempt, hourly position. Placement is based on lesson track and instructional skill level as determined by Surf Operations.

Benefits

DSRT SURF offers a benefits package for eligible employees, including health coverage options and other perks that grow as the company scales.

Schedule Expectations

This is a full time, in person position. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, or events may be required based on business needs.

Why DSRT SURF

This is an opportunity to help build something from the ground up where hospitality, recreation, and exceptional guest experiences come together in a way that hasn't been done before. You'll play an important role in creating a safe, clean, and well-maintained environment that supports both our guests and our team from day one.

Equal Opportunity Employer

DSRT SURF is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We consider applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

DSRT SURF provides reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Applicants requiring accommodation during the hiring process should notify the company.

At-Will Employment Statement

This job description is not intended to create a contract of employment. Employment with DSRT SURF is at will, which means either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law.

Work Location

This is a fully on-site role.