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Climbing Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Plus One, an Optum Company

$17.55 - $25/hr

Minimum of 6 months of experience in a climbing-related role, or at least 2 years of experience working in an indoor climbing facility and/or as an outdoor climbing guide. * Minimum of 6 months of ...

MOUNT HERMON ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED

$17.65 - $21/hr

Guides connect and respond to the needs of guests while following all operational policies and ... Other activities may include, but are not limited to indoor and outdoor climbing walls, and ...

Alterra

Activities Guide - Summer

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.47/hr

Activities include Climbing Wall, Ropes Course, Zip Lines, Summer Tubing, Woolly's Mountain Coaster, bungee, Archery, and more! Requirements: * Experience using climbing equipment and rope rescue ...

Session Climbing

Belayer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Providing a safe and welcoming environment for climbers to grow and learn * Act as a guide to children and parents on proper etiquette in the gym * Setting up games, and day-to-day operations

Session Climbing LLC

Belayer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Providing a safe and welcoming environment for climbers to grow and learn * Act as a guide to children and parents on proper etiquette in the gym * Setting up games, and day-to-day operations

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Climbing Guide information

See California salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do climbing guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing guide in California is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Climbing Guide vs Rock Climbing Instructor?

AspectClimbing GuideRock Climbing Instructor
CertificationsGuide certifications (e.g., AMGA, ACMG)Climbing instruction certifications (e.g., AMGA, PCGI)
Work EnvironmentOutdoor climbing sites, crags, mountainsIndoor climbing gyms, outdoor crags
Employer & Industry UsageOutdoor adventure companies, guiding servicesClimbing gyms, outdoor education programs
Primary FocusLeading clients safely on climbs, route planningTeaching climbing techniques, safety, and skills

While both roles involve climbing and safety, a Climbing Guide primarily leads clients on outdoor climbs, focusing on guiding and safety. A Rock Climbing Instructor emphasizes teaching climbing skills, often in indoor gyms or outdoor settings, with a focus on instruction and skill development.

What cities in California are hiring for Climbing Guide jobs?

Cities in California with the most Climbing Guide job openings:

Climbing Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Guide job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,450 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Rock Climbing Instructor & Studio Guide

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Canvas & Climb
See more jobs at Canvas & Climbexternal

$25 - $35/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Free uniforms
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development

About Us

Canvas and Climb is a boutique enrichment center in West Los Angeles, offering thoughtfully designed programs that inspire confidence, creativity, and physical skill in young children. Our offerings include Montessori pods, art classes, and rock climbing experiences, all delivered in carefully curated, aesthetically intentional spaces.
We believe children are naturally capable and thrive when given opportunities to challenge themselves in safe, engaging environments. Our rock climbing program encourages exploration, self-confidence, problem-solving, and coordination, while fostering a sense of accomplishment and adventure.
As a growing organization, we are committed to providing instructors with pathways to grow with the company, including leadership and program development opportunities.
About the Role

We are seeking a sophisticated, experienced rock climber to lead 1-hour climbing classes for children ages 3–6. The ideal candidate combines advanced climbing expertise with a passion for teaching young learners, creating experiences that are both safe and inspiring.
You will design and implement structured climbing sessions that develop motor skills, confidence, spatial awareness, and problem-solving. You will also establish progressive skill pathways for children who continue in the program long-term, preparing them for challenges, themed adventures, and milestones that promote both achievement and fun.
As a founding instructor, you will have autonomy to create class structures, thematic challenges, and safety protocols, ensuring a boutique, high-end climbing experience for every child.
Key Responsibilities

  • Lead engaging, safe, and age-appropriate 1-hour climbing classes for children ages 3–6
  • Develop structured class outlines, skill progressions, and thematic climbing challenges
  • Teach climbing techniques, coordination, balance, and problem-solving in an age-appropriate way
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and visually intentional climbing environment
  • Observe and adapt instruction to each child’s developmental stage and skill level
  • Communicate thoughtfully with parents regarding progress, milestones, and upcoming challenges
  • Rotate and maintain climbing equipment, ensuring safety and readiness
  • Take initiative to design creative, engaging, and developmentally appropriate climbing experiences
  • Ensure strict adherence to all safety standards and protocols
Qualifications

  • At least 3 years of personal rock climbing experience with advanced skill and technique
  • Thorough knowledge of climbing safety, equipment, devices (manual and auto belay), and techniques
  • Ability to teach climbing skills to children ages 3 and up
  • Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate instruction
  • CPR certification (provided twice per year by the company)
  • Excellent communication, observational, and interpersonal skills
  • Highly organized, proactive, and creative in designing lessons and challenges
Preferred Qualities

  • Passion for inspiring children to challenge themselves physically
  • Patient, encouraging, and observant presence
  • Creative and able to design fun, thematic, and progressive climbing experiences
  • Desire to grow with a boutique, high-end enrichment center and contribute to program development
  • Collaborative and flexible in working with other instructors and staff
Sample 1-Hour Class Outline

Theme: “Adventure Challenge”
  • 0–10 min: Welcome circle and warm-up exercises (stretching, coordination games)
  • 10–35 min: Skill-focused climbing practice (balance, grip, climbing routes)
  • 35–45 min: Themed challenge: obstacle course or problem-solving climbing activity
  • 45–55 min: Reflection & mini “achievement check”: discuss progress and celebrate milestones
  • 55–60 min: Cool-down and closing circle: prepare equipment, review skills, preview next week
What We Offer

  • Boutique, aesthetically intentional climbing environment for young children
  • Small class sizes allowing individualized attention
  • Autonomy to design progressive climbing curriculum and creative challenges
  • Pathways for long-term skill development and student growth
  • Paid planning time for lesson development and equipment preparation
  • CPR training provided twice per year
  • Opportunity to grow into a full-time role and leadership positions within the company
This version:
  • Clearly specifies advanced climbing qualifications
  • Emphasizes safety, technique, and teaching ability
  • Highlights growth potential with the company and boutique high-end positioning