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Climbing Wall Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Climbing Wall Attendant - Andover YMCA

Andover, KS · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Complete and pass an in-branch training by Climbing Wall Instructor, First Aid and Initial and Annual Skills Verification in accordance with Conditions of Employment * Understand and abide-by all ...

Climbing Wall Attendant - Northwest YMCA

Wichita, KS · On-site

$10.75 - $13.75/hr

Complete and pass an in-branch training by Climbing Wall Instructor, First Aid and Initial and Annual Skills Verification in accordance with Conditions of Employment * Understand and abide-by all ...

Climbing Wall Supervisor

Greeley, CO · On-site

$15.16 - $21.75/hr

All employees are highly encouraged to currently possess or obtain a Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) certification from a recognized agency such as the Professional Climbing Instructors Association ...

Climbing Instructor

Nashville, TN

$55K - $72K/yr

AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor certification (SPI Certification preferred) * Performance Climbing Coach Certification (preferred) * USA climbing safesport certification * Experience working with youth ...

Climbing Instructor

Nashville, TN

$55K - $72K/yr

AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor certification (SPI Certification preferred) * Performance Climbing Coach Certification (preferred) * USA climbing safesport certification * Experience working with youth ...

AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor certification (SPI Certification preferred) * Wilderness First Aid certification (WFR certification preferred) * Performance Climbing Coach Certification (preferred)

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Climbing Wall Instructor information

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How much do climbing wall instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing wall instructor in the United States is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Climbing Wall Instructors often encounter challenges such as helping beginners overcome fear of heights, ensuring proper safety practices, and adapting instruction to various skill levels. Effective communication, patience, and the ability to create a supportive environment are key to addressing these challenges. Instructors typically use progressive teaching methods, clear demonstrations, and encouragement to help new climbers build confidence and develop essential skills safely.

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

To thrive as a Climbing Wall Instructor, you need a strong understanding of climbing techniques, safety protocols, and typically a certification such as the Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) credential from reputable organizations. Familiarity with climbing wall equipment, harnesses, belay devices, and incident reporting systems is essential. Excellent communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors effectively teach and support climbers of all levels. These skills ensure a safe, engaging, and educational experience for participants while minimizing risks and fostering a positive climbing environment.

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

AspectClimbing Wall InstructorRock Climbing Guide
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Climbing Instructor CertificationCPR, First Aid, Wilderness or Climbing Guide Certifications
Work EnvironmentIndoor climbing gyms, recreation centersOutdoor climbing areas, crags, mountains
Employer & IndustryIndoor recreation facilities, gymsOutdoor adventure companies, guiding services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Climbing Wall Instructor and a Rock Climbing Guide lies in their work environment and scope. Climbing Wall Instructors typically work indoors at gyms, focusing on teaching climbing skills and safety. Rock Climbing Guides operate outdoors, leading clients on climbs in natural settings. Both roles require similar certifications, but Guides often need additional outdoor-specific training. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position based on their skills and preferences.

What are climbing wall instructors?

Climbing wall instructors are professionals who supervise and guide individuals or groups at indoor climbing facilities. They teach proper climbing techniques, ensure safety protocols are followed, and often lead introductory or advanced classes. Instructors are trained to assist climbers of all skill levels, monitor equipment usage, and respond to emergencies. Their role is crucial in creating a safe and supportive environment for recreational and learning activities at climbing gyms.
More about Climbing Wall Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Climbing Wall Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Climbing Wall Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Climbing Wall Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Climbing Wall Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Climbing Wall 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 $49,145 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Instruction Supervisor (Threshold Climbing & Fitness/PT) Safety Sensitive

Threshold Climbing Gym

Oklahoma City, OK

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Role Summary: The Instruction Supervisor at Threshold delivers an unmatched customer experience through education and instruction. The instructor provides this experience through a welcoming check-in process, guiding clients through either group or individual classes, and supporting each client in their climbing journey. The Supervisor of Climbing Wall Instruction will train a diverse group of people every day who want a practical and in some cases comprehensive training to reach their personal goals. The Supervisor of Climbing Wall Instruction will create lesson plans, classes, and other courses as it relates to further teaching and progressing clients through their climbing journey. A 20,000 sq. ft studio will be your main office. The climbing wall instructor cultivates supportive relationships by making themselves accessible and approachable, ensuring client proficiency and progress, while lifeguarding risk factors. The climbing wall instructor embodies Threshold Values at all times. 

Essential Job Duties: 

  • Train new instructors on Threshold processes
  • Audit instructors, and their classes
  • Supervise and manage instructors in their daily job duties
  • Create lesson plans, classes, and other courses
  • Deliver instruction to individuals and/or groups, while adhering to Threshold instruction policies and procedures.
  • Maintain and upkeep Threshold Instruction standards by updating policies and procedures
  • Report maintenance issues promptly to the Operations Manager
  • Perform regular safety checks of the climbing wall 
  • Lead and motivate other instructors through training and regular communication on expectations
  • Build and maintain a highly engaged member base.
  • Connect and reconnect with clients to encourage continued class attendance and support growth. Promote Threshold memberships and services.
  • Educate clients on correct technique while providing modifications as necessary for their climbing level and as appropriate for their success and capacity.
  • Attend weekly and monthly meetings with management.
  • Be a leader in this community. Live a lifestyle similar to the way you want Threshold clients to live theirs.
  • Knowledgeable about and adherence to the Threshold instruction guidelines on verbal and physical, assists.
  • Adhere to the Threshold instructor attendance policy which includes that fitness instructors are present at the studio 15-30 minutes prior and 15-30 minutes after their class instruction.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the gym: before, after, and in-between classes, including organization and storage of props, mats and other implements (including ropes, weights, and/or sandbags.)
  • Comply with the Threshold Class Planning Protocol. All instruction preparation and planning must be done within the facility premises during the 15-30 minutes before or after class, or during a scheduled class planning session with the Supervisor.
  • Minimum attendance of 2 permanent group or individual classes per week is required.
  • Secure a substitute instructor when unable to instruct a scheduled class, remind substitute at least 24 hours in advance, and notify supervisor of change. Must be an employee or approved contractor.
  • Understand and efficiently navigate MindBody (MBO) software to sign students in and process other front desk transactions.
  • At all times, be respectful and compliant with corporate rules, policies, and procedures in addition to management direction, as stated in the Employee Handbook. 

Education, Skills, & Qualifications: 

  • Previous customer service and sales experience required 
  • 2+ years of experience teaching in group and individual classes preferred.
  • 2+ years of climbing experience to understand movement, technique, and muscle groups used for the sport. 
  • American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) CWI certification 
  • Climbing Wall Association Instructor certification 
  • Current CPR/AED certification required (or a willingness to acquire such certification prior to instructing at Threshold) 
  • A clear passion for health and fitness which inspires clientele  
  • Excellent oral communication skills 
  • Professionalism, reliability, and strong interpersonal skills 
  • Ability to lead students in physical activity for a maximum 3.5 hours at a time 
  • Ability to adapt and incorporate changes to the class sessions 
  • Proficiency in computer applications 
  • Extremely Detail-Oriented, dedicated, and committed to instructing best practices as it relates to climbing.

This job description and summary is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed. Threshold Climbing Gym(s) promotes and maintains a drug-free work environment. Threshold is an Equal Opportunity Employer.