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Climbing Instructor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Swim Instructor

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$18.59 - $24.63/hr

Has a current or the ability to obtain an American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification ... climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling ...

Dance Instructor

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$16.66 - $35.39/hr

Instructors are required to follow a curriculum. Excellent communication skills are a must. All ... climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing ...

Showing results 21-40

Climbing Instructor information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$21

$35

How much do climbing instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing instructor in Virginia is $21.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a climbing instructor?

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Climbing Instructor jobs in Virginia?

For Climbing Instructor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Climbing Instructor jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Climbing Instructor jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Climbing Instructor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,724 per year, or $21 per hour.

Outdoor Adventure (Equipment Coordinator, Climbing Center Coordinator, Poplar Ridge Challenge Cou...

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA

$13.25 - $14/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Outdoor Adventure Equipment Coordinator:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • To assist customers in outfitting trips by ensuring proper rentals of needed camping and paddling equipment.
  • To responsibly handle the monetary transactions of the outdoor recreation rental center according to PCIregulations and through the completion of the appropriate forms for rentals and refunds.
  • Monitor use the bouldering wall and ensure all users have completed the required Bouldering Orientation before climbing.
  • Look for the unobvious things to do. Don't wait for someone to tell you what needs to be done. Look for things that you can do to be helpful to keep the ORC clean and well organized.
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies
  • Assist in the execution of Emergency Action Procedures

Outdoor Adventure Climbing Center Coordinator:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • Oversee member use of Slaughter Recreation Climbing Facility
  • Attend Climbing Center Supervisor Trainings
  • Assist with other OA trip forms, packets, maps, logistics, vans, vehicles, etc. for the field program activities.
  • Look for things that you can do to be helpful to keep the Climbing Center clean and well organized.
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies

Outdoor Adventure Trip Leader:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • Trip Leaders will be responsible for planning, organizing and leading outdoor trips for the UVA community
  • Attend required trip leader training sessions including CPR/AED and Wilderness First Aid
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies.
  • Be a positive and respectful representative of the University and department.

Requirements/Qualifications:

  • No outdoor experience is required for Backpacking/Trail programs. For paddling and climbing, a baseline level of experience is preferred. (Leaders have the opportunity to learn other functional areas on the job).
  • We are looking for mature, enthusiastic and committed students who have an interest in working in the outdoors with groups of students. Experience with outdoor pursuits, outdoor leadership, group facilitation, and/or wilderness risk management are all beneficial. Ideal candidates should possess a servant leadership mentality and should be excited to work students to facilitate friendships and community building.
  • Applicants should be able to lift 40+ pounds.
  • Applicants should possess a strong work ethic and personal initiative.
  • Instructors will receive outdoor and site-specific training
  • Wilderness First Aid certification (a $200 value)

Poplar Ridge Challenge Course Facilitator:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • Our typical programs revolve around team building and leadership development concepts and many programs include one or more of our high ropes activities.
  • Facilitators for Poplar Ridge take on many roles: trainer, leader, mediator, coach, role model, instructor, and counselor.
  • A typical program would involve leading your own team of 8-16 participants through a series of experiential initiatives and facilitating group discussions around what was learned. Many of our programs incorporate one or more of our high elements using ropes, harnesses, and group belay systems.
  • Low and High course training is provided, though those with prior experience with other challenge courses and/or group facilitation will likely pick it up more quickly.
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies
  • Assist in the execution of Emergency Action Procedures

Requirements/Qualifications:

  • Ideal candidates would be mature undergraduate, graduate, or community members with experience teaching, facilitating, or leading groups.
  • Applicants should have a strong interest in team building, outdoor instruction, and/or organizational dynamics.
  • Successful candidates will have a demonstrated ability and comfort in front of groups, creative energy, and strong personal integrity.
  • Successful completion of required trainings.

Compensation: $13.25 -14 per hour (depending on experience)

Applications for this position will be accepted on a rolling basis. Qualified candidates may be contacted as opportunities become available, and positions will be filled as the need arises.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Current UVA student
Experience: None
Licensure: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.


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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819