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Climbing Instructor Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

themac

Recreational Gymnastics Rec Instructor

Portland, OR · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Free access to our exercise room and classes, climbing gym, and pools. * Convenience: Free parking and discounted public transportation passes. * Retirement: Participate in our 401(k) program with an ...

themac

Recreational Gymnastics Rec Instructor

Portland, OR

$15 - $20.25/hr

Free access to our exercise room and classes, climbing gym, and pools. * Convenience: Free parking and discounted public transportation passes. * Retirement: Participate in our 401(k) program with an ...

themac

Aquatic Fitness Instructor

Portland, OR · On-site

Free access to our exercise room and classes, climbing gym, and pools. * Convenience: Free parking and discounted public transportation passes. * Retirement: Participate in our 401(k) program with an ...

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Climbing Instructor information

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$22

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How much do climbing instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing instructor in Oregon is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $25.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Climbing Instructors when teaching beginners, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge Climbing Instructors encounter is helping beginners overcome fear of heights and build confidence on the wall. Instructors often address this by introducing basic safety procedures, using gradual progression in difficulty, and fostering a supportive environment. Communication is key, as instructors must clearly explain techniques while offering encouragement and reassurance. Patience and adaptability are essential, since each climber learns at their own pace. Regularly checking equipment and maintaining safety standards is also crucial to building trust with new climbers.

What qualifications do you need to become a climbing instructor?

To become a climbing instructor, individuals typically need relevant certifications such as a Wilderness First Aid or CPR certification and a recognized climbing instruction certification like the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) or International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA). Experience in climbing and teaching skills are also important, along with knowledge of safety procedures and equipment use.

Is PCIa certification worth it?

For climbing instructors, PCIa certification is a recognized credential that demonstrates competence in climbing instruction and safety standards. It can enhance job prospects and credibility, especially in professional or competitive environments, and is often required by gyms and outdoor programs. The certification involves training in belaying, climbing techniques, and safety protocols, making it a valuable investment for career development in the industry.

How much money do climbing guides make?

Climbing guides typically earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Many guides work seasonally or part-time, with some earning additional tips from clients. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of climbs and the employer's pay structure.

What are climbing instructors?

Climbing instructors are trained professionals who teach people how to climb safely, whether indoors at climbing gyms or outdoors on natural rock formations. They provide instruction on climbing techniques, equipment use, safety protocols, and belaying. Instructors often tailor their guidance to suit different skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. They may also hold certifications from recognized climbing organizations to ensure they meet industry safety and teaching standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Climbing Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Climbing Instructor, you need technical climbing skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and relevant certifications such as those from the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) or similar organizations. Familiarity with climbing equipment, belay devices, and safety systems is essential, along with first aid or wilderness medicine certification. Effective communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and reassure clients are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are important to ensure client safety, promote learning, and create a positive and supportive environment for climbers of all abilities.

How much does a climbing coach make?

Climbing instructors typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Full-time positions may offer annual salaries ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, often supplemented by tips or private lessons. Pay can vary based on the facility, client base, and whether the instructor is employed or self-employed.
What are popular job titles related to Climbing Instructor jobs in Oregon? For Climbing Instructor jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Climbing Instructor jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Climbing Instructor jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Climbing Instructor jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Climbing Instructor job openings:
Climbing Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Instructor job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, and 49% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,629 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Climbing Instructor

Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Climbing Instructor

Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, OR • On-site

$16.06 - $21.20/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Climbing Instructor
Full or Part Time
Part Time
FTE
.49 FTE
Position Type
Regular
Posting Number
20110508C&A
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The climbing instructor assists the Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Director in accomplishing programmatic goals and objectives in accordance with the University's established core themes and set forth in the University's strategic plan. The staff member works to promote alignment of the OAP mission with the University's mission to ensure student learning with high-quality programs that foster lifelong success. The staff member assists the OAP Director in ensuring campus recreation programming meets or exceeds the established goals and objectives of the Division of Student Affairs' annual plan and key performance indicators (KPI's).
The Outdoor Adventure Program mission is committed to the process of creating and facilitating exceptional recreation and educational experiences to foster both student and community physical, mental, and emotional development. To that end, the OAP provides outdoor equipment rentals, instructional courses, clinics in a wide range of outdoor activities, guided trips, an indoor climbing facility, and an extensive resource library to all EOU students and community members. The program is dedicated to community outreach, engaging school groups from rural, disadvantaged areas, as well as international cohorts. The OAP strives to inspire future generations of outdoor stewards by providing low-cost, extensive, and inclusive recreational opportunities.
The climbing instructor for the duration of work shift will be exposed to, and be expected to perform, duties inherent to an indoor climbing wall facility. Such work requires the ability to demonstrate advanced climbing techniques. This typically involves the stamina to exercise vigorously, as well as continuous walking, climbing, jumping, and bending. Work involves being suspended to heights of 35 feet. This position requires repetitive foot, arm, shoulder, hand, and back movements while performing instruction. The climbing instructor must adhere to all safety procedures and protocols set forth by the university and designated industry best practices.
This position will work variable hours and there is no guarantee of hours.
Responsibilities
  • Route set and change out climbing holds.
  • Create a variety of boulder and wall problems for climbers of different experience levels.
  • Be comfortable working on ladders with tools at heights of up to 35'.
  • Support and be involved with competitions and events.
  • Conduct belay certification and climbing clinics
  • Solid working knowledge of climbing equipment and their proper and safe use: belay devices, harnesses, knots etc.
  • Introduce risk management best practices to clients at the start of their session.
  • Clinics focus on developing solid and safe belay skills and developing sound lead sport climbing skills in both small and large group settings.
  • Belay for large group events (Church groups, school classes, birthday parties, etc).
  • Ensure visitor compliance with risk management protocols and safety procedures.
  • Maintain climbing wall equipment and gear.
  • Maintain climbing walls, including t-nut replacement, re-painting, and general repairs.
  • Assist with wall stripping, washing, and sorting holds when necessary.
  • Manage payments and memberships.
  • Able to operate a Point-of-Sale (POS) payment system.
  • Handle cash transactions in-person, over the phone, and through online payment system.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Three (3) years of extensive experience in all relevant facets of rock climbing (indoor, outdoor, bouldering, sport, traditional).
  • Must be able to easily climb indoor routes of at least 5.10 grade rating.
  • Solid working knowledge of climbing equipment: belay devices, harnesses, knots, etc.
  • CPR/First Aid certifications must be achieved before start of employment or have current certifications.
  • Demonstrate a high level of rock climbing knowledge and skill proficiency. This includes being able to lead sport climb 5.10 grade routes and has, at minimum, two years of indoor and outdoor climbing experience including bouldering, sport, and traditional.
  • Demonstrate ability to conduct belay certification exams for clients according to a checklist of protocols established by the OAP to ensure all systems and techniques are safe, redundant, and adhered to.
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of Google products (Sheets, Drive, etc) and Microsoft Office suite including Word and Excel.
  • Must have experience working with hand-held power tools (Impact driver, angle grinder, etc).

  • Must satisfactorily complete EOU criminal and credential background check. Having a criminal history is not an automatic bar to employment.
  • In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Eastern Oregon University will not sponsor applicants for employment visas.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Degree from a college or university accredited by a U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation or an internationally recognized accrediting organization.
  • Ability to breakdown, teach, and critique climbing techniques to climbers of all abilities.
  • Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) Certification.
  • Have experience route-setting in an indoor climbing gym.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicant must provide:
1) Letter of application (which should include why this position is attractive to the applicant, how it meets the applicant's professional goals, and what attracts the applicant to EOU);
2) Resume/Curriculum vitae;
3) Submit names, emails, and phone numbers for at least three references in the reference section of the application.
Candidates are encouraged to review the values and principles of Eastern Oregon University.
Only complete files of qualified applicants will be reviewed.
Eastern Oregon University - Oregon's Rural University! - is a respected public, higher education institution of academic excellence. Brilliant faculty and staff thrive and together fulfill their career ambitions to serve students from all walks of life.
EOU is a beautiful, quaint campus nestled in a remarkably scenic, high elevation valley populated by wonderful, community-minded citizens that have balanced work-life flexibility. Take a virtual tour of Eastern Oregon University.
Eastern Oregon University is an EEO Employer and welcomes applications from women, members of historically underrepresented minority groups, US Veterans, and persons with disabilities. EOU is committed to providing equal opportunity in its recruitment, admissions, educational programs, activities and employment without illegal discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, national origin, race, marital status, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or any status as protected by state or federal law.
Salary
$16.06 - $21.20 hourly DOE
Posting Detail Information
Open Date
08/07/2025
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Day of Application Review
Quick Link to Posting
https://eou.peopleadmin.com/postings/2585

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