Therapeutic Surf Coach @Hang Ten Therapeutics LLC

Pay: From $50.00 per hour

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Job Title: Therapeutic Surf Coach

Weekend position (Saturday's and Sunday's) Starting June 2026

Location: Santa Monica Beach, Santa Monica, CA 90401

About Us:

Hang-Ten Therapeutics is a pediatric surf therapy company that uses the ocean and surfboard as a tool to facilitate both the physical and emotional development of the child. It is owned and operated by a pediatric occupational therapist and all surf sessions are led by therapeutic knowledge. Our mission is to empower children as they engage in therapeutic surfing to foster sensory integration, motor-skill development, and emotional well-being in a supportive and inclusive environment. We believe in the powerful benefits of the ocean and surfing and are committed to helping kids thrive both in and out of the water. Our program promotes safety, inclusion, adaptation, play, autonomy and confidence. Our primary population consist of neurodiverse kids who range in age from four years of age to adolescents.

Job Summary:

Are you an experienced, confident surfer with a heart for kids. Hang-Ten Therapeutics is seeking a therapeutic surf coach to join our team. We provide surf therapy sessions for children with special needs, utilizing a unique blend of ocean immersion and therapeutic, goal-oriented activities.

Unlike a traditional surf instructor role, this position focuses on using the ocean as a classroom for growth, confidence-building, and sensory regulation. You will work closely with me; a licensed Occupational Therapist; to implement therapeutic techniques tailored to each child's unique needs.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, patient, and loving with experience working with neurodiverse children, and children who present with a variety of both physical and emotional needs. The ideal candidate shows determination, a willingness to always learn, and exemplifies dedication to each individual child. You must first be passionate about the child, and everything will flow from that place. Seeking a candidate who is comfortable in the ocean and presents with strong swimming and entry level surfing skills. As the ocean is an ever-changing environment, it is key this candidate can adapt daily.

Key Responsibilities:

Safety First: Maintain rigorous water safety protocols, ensuring the wellbeing of participants at all times.
Instruction & Facilitation: Teach foundational surfing skills while adapting coaching styles to fit the physical and cognitive abilities of diverse learners.
Therapeutic Integration: Implement specific therapeutic tools and activities provided by the OT to target sensory processing, motor planning, and emotional regulation goals.
Compassionate Mentorship: Provide a patient, encouraging, and safe environment that empowers children to push their boundaries.
Collaborative Care: Participate in weekly session briefings to ensure a consistent, high-quality experience for every child.
Qualifications:

Water Proficiency: You are a strong, confident swimmer and surfer with a deep respect for the ocean and the ability to remain calm and focused in various surf conditions.
Experience & Heart: You have prior experience working with children, ideally those with special needs, developmental delays, or neurodivergence.
Teachable Mindset: You are eager to learn new therapeutic modalities. You don't need to be a therapist, but you must be willing to learn and apply the specific tools we utilize.
Patience & Kindness: You possess an endless supply of patience and a natural ability to connect with kids who may be anxious, non-verbal, or physically challenged.
Reliability: You are punctual, professional, and understand that consistent attendance is vital for our students' success.
Why Join Us:

Impact: Make a tangible difference in the lives of children by helping them find joy and confidence in the waves.
Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience working alongside an Occupational Therapist. You will learn the "why" behind the techniques, adding a unique skill set to your surf coaching repertoire.
Community: Become part of a passionate, mission-driven team dedicated to inclusivity and the healing power of the ocean.
Application Process:

If you are enthusiastic about making a difference in the lives of neurodiverse children, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your experience and passion for the role.

Join us at Hang-Ten Therapeutics and help empower children to ride the waves of life!

Please Send your resume to:

Attention: Naomi Matanick, OTR/L

Phone: 419-420-4995