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Climbing Instructor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Momentum Indoor Climbing

Youth Program Coach

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $26/hr

... climbing. This is a hands-on coaching position that emphasizes participant engagement, safety, and customer service. Coaches work closely with fellow instructors and program staff to ensure every ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$38K - $51K/yr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$40 - $75/hr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Bonney Lake, WA · On-site

$40 - $75/hr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Edmonds, WA · On-site

$39K - $52K/yr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

White Center, WA · On-site

$39K - $52K/yr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

White Center, WA · On-site

$40 - $75/hr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Port Orchard, WA · On-site

$40 - $75/hr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$40 - $75/hr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$40K - $53K/yr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$40 - $75/hr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$40 - $75/hr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Renton, WA · On-site

$40K - $54K/yr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

Impact Kids

Martial Arts Instructor

Burien, WA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

We are a growing corporation and need an instructor who has experience working with children ... Ability to respond to emergency situations that may require running and climbing stairs. Good ...

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All JobsClimbing Instructor JobsClimbing Instructor Jobs in Seattle, WA

Climbing Instructor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$11

$24

$41

How much do climbing instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing instructor in Seattle, WA is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $27.36 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 Seattle, WA? For Climbing Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Climbing Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Climbing Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Climbing Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Instructor job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $50,218 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Rock Climbing Instructor (Branches)

Rock Climbing Instructor (Branches)

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Shoreline, WA • On-site

$21.30/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 29 days ago

YMCA Of Greater Seattle rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

534th of 710 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Overview
We have a strong commitment to equity
The Y actively promotes a culture free from bias and injustice. We are dedicated to removing institutional and systemic barriers that result in oppression and racism. We will be accountable to marginalized communities for creating equitable and sustainable environments where social justice is woven into every facet of our programs, and by caring for our communities in a culturally versatile and respectful manner.
Tell me about this job!
Rock Climbing Instructors are certified to work at all of the Y's artificial climbing sites in King County. We have four climbing sites located at YMCA branches in Auburn, Shoreline, Bothell, and SeaTac. Our climbing positions involve working with various ages and skill levels from youth to adult, teaching skills and technique through program instruction and ensuring a safe and organized climbing environment. We are looking for applicants who have a passion for helping people push themselves and learn through adventure. Applicants must be safety conscious and dedicated to using best practices at all times. Site-specific training and certification is required and provided. The ability to travel to all YGS Climbing Tower locations is not essential.
What you'll get from working at The Y
  • Membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle
  • Free access to mental health resources
  • Rapidly-accruing paid time off (PTO) available immediately upon hire
  • Discounts on qualifying YMCA of Greater Seattle childcare, day camp, overnight camp and outdoor leadership programs. 25% for part-time staff, 50% for full-time staff

Compensation: $21.30/hourly
Responsibilities
What you'll be doing
1. Plan and implement specialized programming which may include artificial rock climbing, bouldering, belaying, and teambuilding facilitation.
2. Set-up and break-down of program materials and equipment.
3. Pre/Post inspection of rock climbing areas, equipment and surrounding areas.
4. Proactively report equipment and supply needs to management.
5. Instruct, train, and coach individuals and groups to ensure physical, mental, and emotional safety.
6. Communicate instructions and information in a developmentally appropriate manner to program participants of various ages and abilities.
7. Timely and organized recordkeeping and reporting.
8. Responsible for responding to all inherit potential safety scenarios in a climbing setting, including participant rescues and emergency response.
9. Other duties as assigned.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms to grab and hold. The employee may also be required to climb, support their own body weight, work at heights of 25-35 feet, and perform participant rescues. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift equipment and supplies, up to 30 pounds.
POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
Variable schedule, including weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Code of Conduct for Applicants
All employees and volunteers are responsible for adhering to abuse prevention policies, maintaining appropriate boundaries, completing required training, reporting suspicious or inappropriate behavior, and complying with mandated reporting requirements.
Responsible for ensuring staff are properly screened, trained, supervised and held accountable to the organization's abuse risk management standards.
Qualifications
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Have experience and knowledge of using specialized climbing gear.
  • Previous successful experience leading and engaging youth, teens, or adults in group activities.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Current First Aid and CPR.
  • High school diploma or equivalent, post-secondary education in related field strongly preferred. Other applicable education, training, and experience, which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position will be considered.
  • Prefer knowledge of and previous experience with diverse populations (language, age, culture, race, physical ability, sexual orientation, etc.). Ability to speak any language in addition to English may be helpful.
  • Experience with anti-racism practices.

Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.
Our Mission
Building a community where all people, especially the young, are encouraged to develop their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body.
YMCA of Greater Seattle's Core Values
  • Respect
  • Responsibility
  • Honesty
  • Caring
  • Passion for Excellence

YGS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and equitable work environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by local, state, or federal law.
All job offers are contingent on the results of a background check. We participate in the Federal E-Verify system.

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