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Climbing Wall Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

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 ...

YMCA

Climbing Wall Attendant I Northwest

Wichita, KS · On-site

$12.50 - $15.25/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 ...

City of Greeley

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 ...

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How much do climbing wall instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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 is a climbing wall instructor?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a climbing wall instructor?

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 challenges do 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 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.

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Climbing Wall Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Wall Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,145 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Climbing Wall Instructor

YMCA of Western North Carolina

Marion, NC

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

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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