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Climbing Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calyx Living

Gardening Class Instructor

Durham, NC · On-site

Calyx Living is actively seeking creative, engaging, and energetic Gardening Class Instructors for our beautiful Assisted Living community. Teach any number of classes: * Raised Bed Gardening

Calyx Living

Gardening Class Instructor

Durham, NC · On-site

Calyx Living is actively seeking creative, engaging, and energetic Gardening Class Instructors for our beautiful Assisted Living community. Teach any number of classes: * Raised Bed Gardening

Calyx Living

Gardening Class Instructor

Durham, NC · On-site

Calyx Living is actively seeking creative, engaging, and energetic Gardening Class Instructors for our beautiful Assisted Living community. Teach any number of classes: * Raised Bed Gardening

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How much do climbing instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing instructor in the United States is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 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.
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Climbing Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,102 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Climbing Wall Instructor

Climbing Wall Instructor

YMCA of Western North Carolina

Marion, NC

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

New

Job description

ABOUT US  

The nonprofit YMCA of Western North Carolina strengthens local communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Founded in 1889, we engage more than 100,000 people – regardless of age, income, or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the region’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support the community. We do this through seven YMCAs, dozens of program sites, and YMCA Camp Watia. As the state’s largest provider of licensed school-age childcare, we give more than 1,000 children a day the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. We are made up of people of all ages, from all backgrounds, working side by side to ensure that everyone can reach their full potential with dignity. Thus, we are “For All”. Our core values are caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, and they guide everything we do. We are committed to being an organization that exposes and addresses social constraints that limit and/or negatively affect all humans from all walks of life. We recruit staff who are passionate about giving back to the community, helping people, and upholding our core values. For more information, please visit ymcawnc.org.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As the Climbing Wall Instructor, you will provide excellent care and service to the participants and members using the climbing wall by promoting a safe, fun-filled experience. You will ensure that character development is integrated into the department and should positively affect membership retention.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Belays members in a controlled and safe manner.
  • Verifies all climbers/parents have completed the Climbing Wall Release Form.
  • Monitors activities and members in the climbing area and enforces YMCA of WNC climbing policies.
  • Follows guidelines set for inspecting all equipment and follows procedures for repairing or removing damaged or worn equipment.
  • Maintains the cleanliness and neatness of the climbing wall area.
  • Maintains climber and rope usage logs.
  • Ensures the ropes are secure, and put all equipment away at the end of your shift.
  • Follows all YMCA of WNC Belay Guidelines.
  • Follows all Risk Management guidelines according to branch policies and procedures.
  • Be knowledgeable and prepared to implement emergency procedures.
  • Ensures all incident/accident report forms are completed correctly and completely and turned in to the supervisor.
  • Notifies the supervisor of any concerns with the facility or equipment to ensure a safe climbing area.
  • Trains incoming climbing wall facilitators on policy and procedures.
  • Regularly reviews the Policies and Procedures Manual and other requirements to ensure a full understanding of the requirements.
  • Arranges for a substitute if missing work due to illness or other reason is unavoidable.
  • Opens and closes the climbing wall per employee’s assigned shift.
  • Communicates courteously and helpfully to ensure members know and follow Climbing Wall procedures.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

ABOUT YOU

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Acquire all BLS Certifications within the first 90 days of employment.
  • Must be certified to belay and knowledgeable in wall operations, equipment maintenance, and safety as Alpine Towers defines.
  • Must pass the YMCA Instructor Certification Test by Alpine Towers.
  • Annually attend an Alpine Towers Inc. certification training course.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively with people and monitor property and activity.
  • Ability to perform light physical activity.
  • Ability to work with a diverse group of people.
  • Ability to work accurately at a fast pace.
  • Strong communication skills.

PHYSICAL ASPECTS OF THE JOB

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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to repetitively bend and squat.
  • Must be able to stand/walk for extended periods of time.
  • Endurance for climbing, standing, some bending, stooping, and stretching.
  • Requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity to manipulate climbing equipment and climbing activities.
  • Requires normal range of hearing and eyesight to record, prepare, and communicate appropriate

PART-TIME BENEFITS

  • Free individual membership to all YMCA of WNC locations
  • Discounted membership for household members
  • Discounted program fees (swim lessons, youth sports, summer camp and more)
  • Start a 403(b) smart savings account on day one of employment (optional) and begin eligibility for YMCA retirement plan
  • Professional development opportunities through local and Y-USA trainings

The YMCA of Western North Carolina is committed to equal opportunity in terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, faith, gender, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, except where a bona fide occupational qualification applies.

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