Water Sports Instructor (W/M)
Location: Cong, County Mayo, Ireland
Employment type: Full time - Fixed Term
Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends and Bank Holidays)
We are currently recruiting for a Water sports instructor to join the team at Ashford Castle, Ireland’s first Forbes Five Star Hotel. This role offers a unique opportunity to deliver exceptional outdoor guest experiences, upholding the highest standards of service as set by Forbes Five Star and The Red Carnation Hotel Collection. The successful candidate will play a key role in creating memorable moments for our guests through expert guidance, warm hospitality, and a deep knowledge of the estate’s activities and countryside offerings.
Benefits
Professional, award winning training and development opportunities
Discounted accommodation rates with Red Carnation Hotel Collection
Annual Staff Appreciation Party and other Employee Recognition Events
Discounted rates with many local businesses and third-party service providers (including Estate Activities)
Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability)
Free meals on duty
Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire
Recommend friend and family bonus scheme
Two paid volunteering days each year
Holiday allowance increasing with length of service up to 25 days
Hotel based recognition incentives
Free access to Employee Assistance Programme
Key responsibilities
Responsible for the delivery of Canoeing excursions on the Ashford Castle Estate.
Assist in the planning and delivery of other outdoor estate activities such as Axe Throwing, Fishing, Croquet and Bike Rental.
Help inspect, prepare and maintain activity areas and equipment to ensure a safe and smooth experience for guests.
Support the senior team in tailoring activities to guest interests, ensuring attention to detail and personal touches.
Welcome guests and provide friendly, knowledgeable assistance throughout their activity experience.
Build positive working relationships with team members and external activity providers.
Follow established safety procedures and help monitor equipment conditions.
Liaise with front‑of‑house, concierge, and guest services teams to coordinate booking details and guest preferences.
Assist in ensuring smooth communication between the estate activity team and other departments.
Qualifications
Essential:
An instructor level 2 or higher qualification with Canoeing Ireland in Canoeing or Kayaking.
Previous experience guiding canoe tours in a recreational setting.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage with guests and colleagues alike.
High level of self‑motivation, initiative, and reliability.
Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
First aid qualification.
Desirable:
Previous experience in a 5‑star hospitality setting.
A full, clean driving license.
Qualifications in other outdoor education and country activities such as Mountain Leadership, Climbing Wall Instructor, Mountain Bike Leader, Sailing Instructor etc.
Red Carnation Hotels is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
As part of the recruitment process, we may electronically scan and securely store a copy of your passport, visa and/or ID card for the purpose of verifying the authenticity of the document and establishing your Right to Work in the Republic of Ireland, in line with statutory requirements.
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