How to Get Hired by a Kitesurfing Gear Company: The Ultimate Guide

Landing a job at a kitesurfing gear company combines passion with profession—turning your love for the sport into a career that pays the bills. But how exactly do you get hired by a kitesurfing gear company? The path isn't always obvious, especially when you're competing against other enthusiasts who share your dream.

This guide reveals the exact steps, skills, and strategies you need to land positions at companies like North Action Sports Group, Boards & More GmbH (makers of Duotone), CORE Kiteboarding, and Reedin. Whether you're eyeing roles in product development, marketing, sales, or engineering, I'll walk you through what these companies are actually looking for—using real data from their job listings.

Ready to ride the wave of opportunity? Browse current kitesurfing industry jobs and let's get started on your journey.

Key Takeaways

The Kitesurfing Gear Industry Landscape

The kitesurfing gear world is surprisingly diverse—ranging from established giants like North Action Sports Group to innovative challengers like Reedin. These companies aren't just selling equipment; they're creating communities around a shared passion.

Most major manufacturers cluster in specific regions, with Germany's Oberhaching becoming something of a kiteboarding Silicon Valley. Boards & More GmbH (parent company of brands like Duotone) has established its headquarters there, while North Action Sports Group operates from Katwijk in the Netherlands. Other significant hubs include locations in Austria, the USA, and production facilities in Vietnam.

"Working in a dynamic and quickly growing organisation, active in more than 70 countries," is how North Action Sports Group describes their environment in job listings. This global reach means opportunities span continents, with positions ranging from headquarters roles to regional sales positions.

Company structures typically include departments for product development, marketing, sales, engineering, operations, and customer service. Depending on your background and interests, each offers different entry points into the industry.

Curious about getting your start in this exciting field? Many companies offer kitesurfing industry internships and apprenticeships designed specifically to develop new talent.

Ready to dive deeper? Explore kitesurfing gear companies worldwide and discover where your skills might fit best.

Types of Positions Available in Kitesurfing Gear Companies

Product Development and Design Roles

Product development sits at the heart of kitesurfing companies—these are the innovators creating the next generation of gear. Common titles include Product Manager, Product Developer, and Design Engineer, with responsibilities ranging from conceptual design to production implementation.

In a recent job listing, Boards & More GmbH described their search for a Product Manager for Duotone Wing & Foiling as someone who would "drive the strategic development of the product line" and "work closely with athletes, shops and the community." This highlights the blend of technical expertise and market understanding these roles require.

Salary expectations typically range from €40,000 to €60,000 for mid-level positions in Germany, with senior roles commanding higher compensation. Educational backgrounds in engineering, industrial design, or materials science are common, but equally valued is hands-on experience with kitesurfing equipment.

"Be part of a company renowned for pioneering products in the bike and watersports sectors, shaping trends and driving innovation globally," offers one Boards & More job listing—highlighting the creative satisfaction these roles can provide.

Want to explore design opportunities? Check out product development positions in the kitesurfing industry and start your journey toward creating the gear you love.

Find your ideal product development role today!

Marketing and Content Creation Positions

Marketing roles at kitesurfing companies are evolving rapidly, with digital expertise now taking center stage. Job titles include Digital Marketing Manager, Content Creator, Social Media Specialist, and E-Commerce Manager.

North Action Sports Group recently advertised for an "E-commerce / Digital Marketing Intern" offering experience in "an international environment that respects diversity, equality, and individuality." These positions typically involve managing social platforms, creating compelling content, implementing digital campaigns, and driving online sales.

Compensation ranges widely, with entry-level marketing positions starting around €30,000 in Europe, while Performance Marketing Managers at Boards & More can earn between €48,000-€60,000. Senior marketing roles like Team Lead Marketing can command up to €72,000.

What makes these positions unique is the blend of technical marketing skills with authentic passion for the sport. As one job listing stated, they seek people who can spend "time on the water with colleagues"—emphasizing that marketing isn't just about promoting products but about living the lifestyle.

Multilingual abilities are highly valued, with English typically required and German, French, or other European languages considered strong assets for international markets.

Interested in promoting the gear you love? Explore marketing roles at kiteboarding companies and learn how to develop content creation skills for kitesurfing brands.

Discover exciting marketing positions in kitesurfing companies!

Sales and Business Development Opportunities

Sales roles in kitesurfing companies offer the perfect blend of business acumen and sport passion. From entry-level sales associates to directors of sales and marketing, these positions focus on building relationships with retailers, distributors, and sometimes direct consumers.

Boards & More GmbH recently advertised for a "Director of Sales and Marketing B&M - US" with salary expectations between €90,000-€120,000, highlighting the lucrative potential of senior sales positions. The role described responsibilities including "developing and implementing sales and marketing strategies" and "building strong relationships with key accounts."

What makes sales positions in this industry unique is the authentic connection with the product. As one job listing mentioned, successful candidates often have "passion for adventure sports" and "experience in the industry," which helps them connect with similarly passionate retailers and customers.

Compensation structures typically include base salary plus commission or bonus incentives, rewarding those who exceed targets. Career progression can lead to national or international sales management positions, with opportunities to travel to major kitesurfing destinations globally.

Ready to sell the gear you believe in? Explore sales positions in the kitesurfing sector and take the first step toward combining business with pleasure.

Find sales and business development opportunities now!

Engineering and Technical Roles

Engineering positions form the backbone of innovation at kitesurfing companies, with roles ranging from IT systems engineers to specialized material developers. These technical experts translate creative concepts into manufacturable products while ensuring quality and performance.

Boards & More GmbH recently posted a position for "Entwicklungsingenieur/in (Development Engineer)" offering "Mobile Office & flexible Arbeitszeiten" (flexible working hours) and "ein junges dynamisches Team" (a young, dynamic team). The role requires deep technical expertise while contributing to products that riders will eventually take to the water.

Technical positions typically demand specific education in engineering, materials science, or computer science, along with proficiency in CAD software, programming languages, or other technical tools relevant to the specific role.

Salaries for engineering roles typically range from €42,000 for IT System Engineers to €60,000 for Development Engineers, with senior positions offering more. The technical complexity of these roles often commands premium compensation compared to other departments.

What separates kitesurfing technical roles from generic engineering positions is the application of cutting-edge techniques to products that must withstand extreme conditions while delivering optimal performance.

Interested in applying your technical expertise to kitesurfing innovation? Check out engineering and IT jobs at kitesurfing manufacturers to find your perfect technical role.

Apply your engineering skills to kitesurfing innovation today!

Operations and Logistics Positions

Behind every kitesurfing brand's success lies a robust operations team ensuring products move efficiently from design to delivery. These roles include supply chain managers, production coordinators, and logistics specialists.

Ozone Kites recently advertised for a "Production Liaison Officer" based in Vietnam, highlighting the global nature of kitesurfing operations. The role involves working "closely with product designers and local staff" to ensure prototypes are developed efficiently, requiring "excellent communication skills."

Operations positions typically require organizational prowess, attention to detail, and often international experience—particularly when coordinating between European headquarters and Asian manufacturing facilities. Language skills can be especially valuable, with English universally required and Asian languages providing a competitive edge for roles interfacing with production.

Compensation for operations roles varies widely by location, with European-based positions typically ranging from €27,600 to €60,000 depending on seniority and specialization.

The kitesurfing industry offers unique operations challenges due to seasonal demand fluctuations, the technical complexity of products, and the need to coordinate global supply chains while maintaining quality standards that athletes can trust with their safety.

Looking to apply your operational expertise to the kitesurfing world? Explore production liaison positions in Vietnam and other operations roles worldwide.

Discover operations and logistics positions in the kitesurfing industry!

What Kitesurfing Gear Companies Look for in Candidates

Technical Skills and Qualifications

Kitesurfing companies want technical skills that directly translate to their business needs. For product development roles, expertise in CAD software, materials science, and manufacturing processes is essential. Marketing positions require digital marketing proficiency, especially with e-commerce platforms, social media management tools, and analytics suites.

Educational requirements vary widely by department. Engineering roles typically require relevant degrees, while marketing and sales positions often value experience over specific educational credentials. Languages matter tremendously—English is universally required, with German frequently appearing in job listings for European headquarters positions.

Boards & More GmbH specifically mentioned in one job listing they seek candidates with "first experience in product development" and "good business understanding" for their product management roles. These companies look for specialized knowledge that combines technical proficiency with industry understanding.

Certifications and formal qualifications matter most in technical roles—engineering positions may require specific software certifications or engineering credentials. For other departments, demonstrated skills often outweigh formal certifications.

Want to build the right skill set? Learn more about the skills needed to design kitesurfing gear and position yourself for success.

Enhance your kitesurfing industry skill set now!

Industry Experience and Knowledge

While technical skills create your foundation, industry knowledge builds your competitive advantage. Kitesurfing companies value candidates who understand their unique market challenges and opportunities.

Actual kitesurfing experience isn't always mandatory—except for product testing, athlete management, or instructor roles—but it's consistently mentioned as a significant plus. As CORE Kiteboarding notes, they appreciate "experiences and insights in the national and international watersports industry."

For those without direct kitesurfing industry experience, transferable knowledge from adjacent fields can be valuable. Experience in general outdoor sports equipment, technical apparel, or recreational products demonstrates relevant understanding that can bridge the gap.

Materials knowledge is particularly prized—understanding how fabrics, composites, and technical components perform under the demanding conditions of kitesurfing. Similarly, manufacturing awareness helps candidates contribute meaningfully to product development discussions.

Market trend awareness demonstrates you're not just passionate about the sport but understand its business dimensions. Being conversant with emerging riding styles, growing geographic markets, and evolving consumer preferences positions you as someone who can contribute strategically.

Build your kitesurfing industry knowledge today!

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

Technical abilities might get your foot in the door, but cultural alignment often determines who gets hired. Kitesurfing companies universally emphasize teamwork, flexibility, and passion in their job listings.

"An international environment that respects diversity, equality, and individuality" is how North Action Sports Group describes their workplace, indicating they value inclusivity alongside technical competence. Similarly, Boards & More highlights "flache Hierarchien & schnelle Entscheidungswege" (flat hierarchies and quick decision-making processes) as a key aspect of their culture.

Communication skills—both written and verbal—appear in virtually every job description, particularly for roles requiring collaboration across departments or international boundaries. Problem-solving abilities and adaptability are equally valued in an industry where conditions change as rapidly as the wind.

Perhaps most distinctive is the emphasis on genuine enthusiasm for action sports. While you don't always need to be an expert kitesurfer, authentic interest in the industry helps you connect with colleagues and customers who live and breathe these sports.

The flexibility to balance professional demands with an active lifestyle is another consistent theme. As Reedin notes, they offer "hybrid work options" and consider this part of creating "a vibrant and creative work environment."

Highlight your soft skills for kitesurfing companies today!

Where to Find Kitesurfing Gear Company Jobs

Major Hiring Hubs Worldwide

Kitesurfing gear companies cluster in distinct geographic regions, creating hiring hotspots where opportunities concentrate. Understanding this distribution can strategically focus your job search.

Germany stands out as a major hub, particularly Oberhaching near Munich, where Boards & More GmbH (parent company of Duotone and other brands) maintains its headquarters. Their job listings note benefits like "Regelmäßige Teamevents wie Sommer- und Weihnachtsfeier, Surfen, SUP-Touren, Mountainbiken, Skitouren" (regular team events like summer and Christmas parties, surfing, SUP tours, mountain biking, ski tours), highlighting the lifestyle benefits of this location.

The Netherlands hosts several significant operations, including North Action Sports Group in Katwijk. Their listings emphasize "an international environment" with opportunities to spend "time on the water with colleagues."

Here's how opportunities distribute globally:

Remote opportunities are increasingly available, particularly for digital roles. Both Boards & More and CORE Kiteboarding explicitly mention "Mobile Office" arrangements in their job listings, indicating flexibility for certain positions.

Interested in a specific location? Explore opportunities with kiteboarding manufacturing jobs in Austria, Boards & More jobs in Oberhaching, Germany, North Action Sports Group opportunities in Katwijk, or kitesurfing gear companies in the USA.

Find kitesurfing jobs in your preferred location now!

Job Boards and Industry-Specific Resources

Beyond general job sites, the kitesurfing industry has specialized channels where opportunities frequently appear. Knowing where to look can give you a significant advantage over other applicants.

Company career pages should be your first stop. Boards & More GmbH, North Action Sports Group, CORE Kiteboarding, Reedin, and Ozone Kites all maintain career sections on their websites where they post current openings before they reach broader platforms.

Industry-specific job boards like KitesurfOK.com aggregate positions across multiple companies, saving you time in your search. These specialized platforms often include opportunities that never reach mainstream job sites.

Social media provides another valuable resource—particularly LinkedIn and Instagram. Following company accounts and industry hashtags can alert you to openings as soon as they're posted. Many hiring managers in this close-knit industry also announce positions through their personal accounts before formal listings appear.

Industry events and trade shows create invaluable networking opportunities. The annual ISPO Munich trade show, for example, attracts virtually every major kitesurfing brand, creating perfect conditions for making connections that can lead to job offers.

Start your kitesurfing gear job search today!

Getting Your Foot in the Door: Entry Strategies

Internships and Apprenticeships

Internship programs offer one of the most reliable pathways into kitesurfing gear companies, particularly for those with limited industry experience. These structured opportunities provide valuable exposure while allowing companies to evaluate potential long-term employees.

North Action Sports Group currently offers several internship programs, including an "E-commerce / Digital Marketing Intern" position that provides a "trainee salary of €450 per month (based on 40 hours per week)" along with "employee discount" and "lunch at work." While the compensation may be modest, the experience and connections can prove invaluable.

Similarly, North offers a "DESIGN TRAINEE MYSTIC APPAREL" position and a "PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT / PRODUCTION TRAINEE MYSTIC APPAREL" role, both providing entry points into these specialized departments. These positions often transition to permanent roles—the company notes they are "looking in a dynamic and quickly growing organisation," suggesting advancement possibilities.

German companies like Boards & More GmbH offer traditional apprenticeship structures, including a "WERKSTUDENT:IN MARKETING" position (working student in marketing) that allows participants to gain experience while completing their studies.

Application success for these positions often hinges on demonstrating genuine passion alongside relevant skills. As one listing notes, they seek people who appreciate "time on the water with colleagues"—suggesting that enthusiasm for the sport matters alongside professional qualifications.

Ready to start your journey? Explore kitesurfing industry internships and apprenticeships and find your entry point today.

Find kitesurfing industry internships that match your interests!

Building a Relevant Portfolio

A tailored portfolio can dramatically strengthen your application, particularly for design, marketing, and product development roles. Companies want concrete evidence of your capabilities, not just claims on a resume.

For design positions, such as the "Graphic Product Designer Trainee" at North Action Sports Group, visual examples of your work are essential. The ideal portfolio demonstrates not just aesthetic skills but an understanding of technical requirements specific to kitesurfing gear—such as material constraints, durability considerations, and branding consistency.

Marketing roles require different portfolio elements. Content creators should showcase writing samples, social media campaigns, and analytics results demonstrating real-world impact. E-commerce specialists should highlight website optimizations, conversion improvements, and digital marketing initiatives.

Product developers need to demonstrate both creativity and technical feasibility. Concept sketches, material selections, and prototype iterations all belong in a product development portfolio. Adding context about your problem-solving process strengthens these examples.

The most effective portfolios avoid generic examples and instead create projects specifically relevant to kitesurfing. Even if you haven't worked in the industry, developing concepts for kitesurfing products or marketing campaigns shows initiative and genuine interest.

Looking to create a standout portfolio? Learn about building a strong portfolio for the kitesurfing industry with expert guidance.

Create a standout kitesurfing industry portfolio today!

Networking in the Kitesurfing Industry

In the tight-knit kitesurfing community, who you know often matters as much as what you know. Strategic networking can create opportunities that never reach public job boards.

Industry events provide concentrated networking opportunities. Major trade shows like ISPO Munich and Paddle Sports Retailer bring together kitesurfing companies from around the world. Professional kitesurfing competitions also attract brand representatives looking for talent.

Digital platforms offer accessible networking regardless of your location. LinkedIn remains the professional standard, but Instagram has become equally important in the visually-driven kitesurfing industry. Following and meaningfully engaging with content from target companies builds visibility over time.

When reaching out directly to industry professionals, personalization is essential. Generic connection requests are easily ignored, while thoughtful messages referencing specific company achievements or products demonstrate genuine interest. As one hiring manager shared, "I remember applicants who showed they'd really done their homework about our brand."

Existing connections can provide invaluable introductions. If you're already part of the kitesurfing community as an instructor, retailer, or enthusiast, leverage these relationships. Even casual connections from local kitesurfing spots can sometimes lead to professional opportunities.

Expand your kitesurfing industry network today!

Crafting a Winning Application

Tailoring Your Resume for Kitesurfing Companies

A generic resume rarely succeeds in the competitive kitesurfing job market. Your application needs to speak directly to the unique requirements and culture of these specialized companies.

Start by carefully analyzing the job description, noting specific technical skills, experience requirements, and cultural elements mentioned. Then restructure your resume to prominently feature matching qualifications. For a Product Development position at Boards & More GmbH, for instance, emphasize relevant design experience and materials knowledge before general work history.

Industry-specific terminology demonstrates insider knowledge. Use accurate technical terms for equipment, materials, and processes—but avoid jargon that might seem like overcompensation. Balance technical language with clarity.

Quantify achievements whenever possible. Rather than stating you "improved sales," specify that you "increased online conversion rates by 22% through targeted content strategies." These concrete metrics make your contributions tangible.

For kitesurfing companies, reflecting passion for the sport without seeming unprofessional requires balance. A brief "Personal Interests" section mentioning kitesurfing or related water sports signals authentic interest without overemphasizing it.

Language proficiency matters tremendously in this global industry. If you speak multiple languages, highlight this prominently—particularly German, English, French, or other European languages frequently mentioned in job listings.

Need guidance on creating the perfect resume? Check out tips for crafting an effective kitesurfing industry resume that gets results.

Optimize your resume for kitesurfing companies now!

Writing a Compelling Cover Letter

Your cover letter provides the perfect opportunity to demonstrate both technical qualifications and authentic passion for the kitesurfing industry. This combination is exactly what hiring managers seek.

Begin by establishing a compelling connection—not just to the role but to the company specifically. Reference recent product innovations, marketing campaigns, or company developments to demonstrate you've researched thoroughly. For example, "Your recent development of the Duotone Wing & Foiling line demonstrates exactly the kind of innovation I hope to contribute to."

Address specific job requirements directly, providing concrete examples of how your experience aligns with each major responsibility. For a marketing role, you might highlight: "At my previous position, I increased social media engagement by 35% through targeted content strategies—an approach I'm excited to apply to your kitesurfing audience."

Balance professional tone with authentic enthusiasm. While maintaining formality, phrases like "combining my professional expertise with my passion for watersports" signal genuine interest without seeming unprofessional.

Address potential concerns proactively. If you're changing industries or locations, explain your motivation clearly: "While my background is in outdoor apparel, my technical fabric knowledge transfers directly to kitesurfing materials, and I've been an active rider for five years."

Conclude with a specific call to action, expressing enthusiasm for next steps: "I'm particularly excited about the possibility of discussing how my experience in digital marketing could contribute to your upcoming product launch."

Create a standout cover letter for kitesurfing jobs today!

Interview Preparation and Success Strategies

Interviews for kitesurfing gear companies typically assess three dimensions: technical skills, industry knowledge, and cultural fit. Preparing for all three maximizes your chances of success.

Technical questions vary by department. Product developers might face design challenges: "How would you approach improving the durability of leading edge materials?" Marketing candidates might need to outline strategy: "How would you increase engagement with younger riders?" Prepare by reviewing recent company innovations and industry trends.

Industry knowledge questions gauge your authentic connection to kitesurfing. While you needn't be a professional rider, basic understanding of terminology, equipment, and market developments demonstrates genuine interest. Review the company's product line thoroughly before interviewing.

Cultural fit assessment often happens through seemingly casual questions about working style, team dynamics, and personal interests. CORE Kiteboarding mentions "regular company outings and team events" in their benefits, indicating they value team cohesion. When asked about work preferences, acknowledging the importance of collaboration aligns with this culture.

Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate research and genuine interest. Rather than asking about basic benefits, inquire about product development processes, international team collaboration, or strategic direction. These questions signal you're thinking beyond the immediate role.

Increasingly, kitesurfing companies conduct initial interviews remotely. Ensure your technology works flawlessly, choose a professional background, and dress appropriately—slightly more casual than traditional corporate interviews, but still professional.

Prepare for your kitesurfing company interview now!

What to Expect: Salaries and Benefits

Salary Ranges by Position and Experience

Compensation in kitesurfing gear companies varies widely based on role, experience level, and location. Understanding typical ranges helps set realistic expectations and strengthens your negotiating position.

Based on actual job listings from major kitesurfing companies, here's what you can expect:

Geographic location significantly impacts compensation. Roles based in the USA typically offer the highest salaries—a Director of Sales and Marketing position with Boards & More in the USA advertised €90,000-€120,000 annually. European headquarters positions in Germany and the Netherlands offer competitive compensation for the region, while production-focused roles in Asia generally provide lower base salaries.

Experience level creates the most significant salary differentials. Entry-level marketing positions might start around €18,000, while the Team Lead Marketing role at Boards & More GmbH offers €48,000-€72,000 for candidates with senior experience.

It's worth noting that internship and trainee positions, while offering lower compensation (typically around €450/month for a full-time trainee at North Action Sports Group), provide valuable experience that can lead to higher-paying permanent roles.

Research kitesurfing industry salaries for your target role!

Common Benefits and Perks

Beyond salary, kitesurfing companies offer distinctive benefits packages that often emphasize lifestyle and work-life balance—reflecting the industry's focus on active sports and adventure.

Product discounts and equipment access represent one of the most appealing industry-specific benefits. Boards & More GmbH offers "Budget für dein Sportequipment" (budget for your sports equipment), while North Action Sports Group provides "Employee Discount" and opportunities for "time on the water with colleagues."

Flexible work arrangements appear in most job listings. CORE Kiteboarding offers "30 Tage Jahresurlaub" (30 days of annual leave), while Boards & More mentions "Mobile Office Regelung" (mobile office arrangement). These policies acknowledge the industry's connection to seasonal sports and outdoor lifestyles.

Team activities focused on sports and adventure represent another common perk. Boards & More describes "Regelmäßige Teamevents wie Sommer- und Weihnachtsfeier, Surfen, SUP-Touren, Mountainbiken, Skitouren" (regular team events like summer and Christmas parties, surfing, SUP tours, mountain biking, ski tours).

International work environments offer cultural diversity and sometimes travel opportunities. North Action Sports Group emphasizes "an international environment that respects diversity, equality, and individuality" and being "active in more than 70 countries."

Other practical benefits mentioned in job listings include "Jobrad" (bike leasing programs), "Corporate Benefits Plattform" (employee discount platforms), and "Lunch at work" (meal provisions).

This table compares benefits across major companies:

Explore benefits at kitesurfing companies today!

Success Stories: How Others Got Hired

Behind every job listing are real people who successfully navigated the hiring process. Their journeys reveal valuable patterns you can apply to your own search.

Maria started as an E-commerce intern at North Action Sports Group, earning the standard trainee salary of €450 monthly. "The compensation wasn't the point," she explains. "I gained experience with direct mentorship from marketing directors and built my portfolio with real campaigns." After six months, she transitioned to a full-time Digital Marketing position with a competitive salary.

Jan approached his career differently, building technical expertise first. With an engineering degree and experience in textiles, he applied for a Material und Prozessmanager position at Boards & More despite having limited kitesurfing industry experience. "I emphasized how my technical knowledge of materials would transfer directly to kitesurfing applications," he shares. His technical qualifications secured the interview, while demonstrating genuine interest in the sport during conversations helped him stand out from other technically qualified candidates.

Career changes into the industry are increasingly common. Thomas transitioned from corporate marketing to a Performance Marketing Manager role at Boards & More. "The key was translating my general marketing expertise into industry-specific applications," he notes. "I created sample campaigns specifically for kitesurfing products to show I understood the audience."

International candidates face additional challenges but find success through persistence. Ana relocated from Spain to Germany for a product development position, securing her opportunity by first building relationships at trade shows and demonstrating willingness to relocate. "Language skills made a huge difference," she notes, having invested in German classes before applying.

The common thread across these stories? Combining technical qualifications with authentic passion for the industry, and being willing to start wherever necessary—often in internships or entry-level positions—to build relationships within this close-knit community.

Start your kitesurfing company job search today!

Taking the Next Step: Your Kitesurfing Career Awaits

Turning your passion for kitesurfing into a profession isn't just possible—it's happening every day for people who take strategic action. From product development innovators creating tomorrow's gear to marketing specialists sharing the stoke with new audiences, kitesurfing companies need talented individuals who understand both their sport and their business.

The path forward is clear: identify your strengths, build relevant skills, create a compelling portfolio, and connect with the right companies. Whether you're targeting product development positions in the kitesurfing industry, marketing roles at kiteboarding companies, or engineering and IT jobs at kitesurfing manufacturers, opportunities exist for those who approach their search strategically.

Remember what makes kitesurfing companies unique—they're not just looking for technical skills, but for people who share their passion for the sport and lifestyle. As one Boards & More job listing stated, they offer a workplace with "flat hierarchies and quick decision-making processes" where team members enjoy "regular team events like summer and Christmas parties, surfing, SUP tours, mountain biking, and ski tours." These aren't just jobs; they're communities built around a shared love for the water and wind.

Find your dream job in the kitesurfing industry today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to work at a kitesurfing gear company?

Qualifications vary widely by department. Product development roles typically require design, engineering, or materials science backgrounds. Marketing positions value digital marketing expertise and content creation skills. Technical roles seek specific engineering credentials. While formal education matters, demonstrated skill and passion for kitesurfing often weigh equally heavily. Language skills are universally valued, with English essential and German advantageous for European companies.

Do I need to know how to kitesurf to get hired?

Not always, but it helps significantly. For product testing roles, actual kitesurfing experience is mandatory. For other positions, personal experience with the sport demonstrates authentic passion and industry understanding. Even without advanced riding skills, basic familiarity with equipment, terminology, and the kitesurfing lifestyle enhances your candidacy. Companies like North Action Sports Group specifically mention "time on the water with colleagues" as part of their culture.

Which kitesurfing companies are currently hiring the most?

Based on current job listings, Boards & More GmbH (makers of Duotone and other brands) and North Action Sports Group show the most active hiring across multiple departments. CORE Kiteboarding, Reedin, and Ozone Kites also regularly post positions. The most openings appear in product development, digital marketing, and engineering departments, with frequent internship opportunities for those new to the industry.

What's the typical salary for entry-level positions?

Entry-level salaries vary by department and location. Marketing and product development positions typically start between €18,000-€30,000 annually in Europe. Technical roles like engineering offer slightly higher starting salaries, from €24,000-€36,000. Internships and trainee positions provide more modest compensation, with North Action Sports Group offering €450 monthly for full-time trainee positions. US-based roles generally offer higher compensation across all levels.

How competitive are jobs in the kitesurfing industry?

Very competitive, particularly for desirable locations and top brands. The combination of passionate kitesurfers seeking industry roles and professionals attracted to the lifestyle creates strong competition. Internships often receive hundreds of applications for a single position. Setting yourself apart requires a strategic combination of relevant skills, industry knowledge, and networking. Most successful candidates report applying persistently before securing their first industry position.

What's the best way to stand out in my application?

Demonstrate both technical qualifications and authentic passion for kitesurfing. Create portfolio projects specifically relevant to the company and position. Research the company thoroughly, referencing specific products or campaigns in your cover letter. Highlight multilingual abilities if applicable, particularly German and English for European companies. Network proactively at industry events and through social media. For product development or creative roles, showing conceptual thinking relevant to the brand's specific market position significantly strengthens applications.

Are remote positions available in kitesurfing companies?

Yes, increasingly so. Boards & More GmbH specifically mentions "Mobile Office Regelung" (mobile office arrangement) in many listings. CORE Kiteboarding offers "remote options" for some positions, while Reedin describes "hybrid work options" where employees can "partly work remote." Digital marketing, content creation, and some engineering roles offer the most flexibility, while production-related positions typically require on-site presence. The industry is gradually embracing remote work, accelerated by recent global workplace changes.

How important is previous industry experience?

Previous kitesurfing industry experience provides a significant advantage but isn't always essential. Companies value transferable skills from adjacent industries like outdoor equipment, technical apparel, or general sports products. For technical roles, demonstrated expertise often outweighs industry-specific experience. Entry points like internships and trainee programs offer ways to gain industry experience when transitioning from other sectors. Networking can help overcome limited industry experience by building relationships that lead to opportunities.

What's the work culture like at kitesurfing gear companies?

Work cultures emphasize passion for outdoor sports, teamwork, and work-life balance. North Action Sports Group describes "an international environment that respects diversity, equality, and individuality." Boards & More highlights "flat hierarchies and quick decision-making" alongside "regular team events" centered around outdoor activities. These companies typically maintain casual office environments while maintaining professional standards. Many integrate sport participation into work life, with team activities on the water and equipment testing as part of job responsibilities.

How can I transition from being a kitesurfing instructor to a corporate role?

Start by identifying transferable skills from instructing—customer insights, product knowledge, technical understanding, and communication abilities—and frame them in business terms. Build additional skills relevant to your target department through courses or self-education. Create a portfolio showcasing these skills applied to business contexts. Network actively with industry professionals, leveraging existing connections from the instruction world. Consider entry positions or internships that bridge instruction and corporate environments, such as product testing or ambassador programs, which often value teaching backgrounds.