Kayak Associate
Job Title: Kayak Associate
Classification: Part-time, temporary, non-exempt
Pay Rate: $20/hour
Reports to: Deputy Director of Public Programs
Brooklyn Bridge Park (BBP) is looking to hire a part-time Kayak Associates to support BBP’s programming efforts during the 2026 season, approximately from June-August, approximately June 1 – August 31, 2026. Kayak Associates are a key part of the kayaking program, working directly with the public and youth camps/classes to provide weekly free kayaking sessions and camps.
Ideal applicants will be adept at multitasking, passionate about public programs and outdoor recreation, and ready to take on many and varied responsibilities. They must be comfortable with being on and around the East River and have a background in kayaking or other water-based recreation (and willingness to be trained as a safety boater). The Associate will be working directly with the public and volunteers and will be expected to work independently and in highly collaborative settings. They should genuinely enjoy being on the ground/water with program partners and participants, making sure programs run smoothly and safely.
Primary Responsibilities:
Be trained as a safety boater and directly support the Park’s kayak programs on the water (Public Kayaking and Youth Kayak Camps).
Work closely with fellow Kayak Associates and Youth Kayak Program Coordinator to execute programs.
Assist our partner, Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse, with registration/walk-ups for public kayaking, and using check-in software on iPad.
Work and communicate with program partners and participants to ensure they are supported.
Track visitor information, including demographic information and program participant numbers.
Maintain kayak programming equipment.
Offer directions and general information to the public.
Support other Brooklyn Bridge Park programming as directed, including mobile Visitor Services Desk.
Qualifications:
Experience being on the water (kayak preferable) .
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Outgoing, curious, and a self-starter.
Ability to perform outdoor physical labor (lift 40 lbs) in all weather conditions, including hot summers.
Interest in executing hands-on, youth-facing events.
Ability to work responsibly, quickly, independently, accurately, and consistently.
Must be comfortable around and getting in water.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, and Teams.
About You:
You strive to be inclusive and collaborative. At BBP, we recognize that doing our best work means working together. We have each other’s back – and are helpful, humble and open.
You are committed. At BBP, we approach our work with integrity, positivity, and pride. We are committed to the public, the park and each other.
You are a problem-solver. At BBP, we prioritize learning, evolving and building creative solutions to ensure the Park remains a leader in sustainable green space for generations to come.
You value people and the environment. At BBP, respect is important to us. We strive to trust each other, act with good intention and communicate with openness.
Working at BBP:
We believe that BBP is a park for all people. We take pride in our ability to provide the community with a beautiful, functional, clean, and safe green space. Internally, we strive to provide a work environment where employees feel supported, respected, and a sense of belonging. Our staff are experts in everything from horticulture to community engagement to park operations and events. The work environment is welcoming, with hardworking and diverse staff who are dedicated to building, beautifying, and maintaining the park. We offer benefits like affordable healthcare, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, and prioritize the importance of work-life balance.
ABOUT BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK
Brooklyn Bridge Park, one of the most transformative public projects in New York City in a generation, has revitalized a formerly industrial waterfront into a dynamic 85-acre civic space. Created to be environmentally and financially sustainable, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a model for resilient urban design that reconnects New Yorkers and visitors to the waterfront. Brooklyn Bridge Park (BBP) operates as a non-profit public benefit corporation of the City of New York and is responsible for the stewardship of the park—maintaining its landscapes, maritime infrastructure, and public amenities. BBP develops and delivers dynamic public programming that weaves together arts and culture, recreation, and environmental education to engage, inspire, and serve a diverse community.
Brooklyn Bridge Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Brooklyn Bridge Park provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.