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Climbing Wall Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

First Ascent LLC

Hospitality Staff - Block 37

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $19/hr

Communicate and enforce facility and climbing wall policies and maintain updated safety checklists ... Adult Instructor: Lead group classes on climbing and/or belay technique. * Youth Instructor:

All JobsClimbing Wall Instructor JobsClimbing Wall Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Climbing Wall Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$24

$46

How much do climbing wall instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing wall instructor in Chicago, IL is $24.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.76 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.

What are popular job titles related to Climbing Wall Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Climbing Wall Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Climbing Wall Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Climbing Wall Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Climbing Wall Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Wall Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,626 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Second Shift Operations Coordinator - Maggie Daley Park

ASM Global

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

ASM Global rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 256 rated facilities management

Job description

Job Title: Second Shift Operations Coordinator
Location: Maggie Daley Park, Chicago, IL
Reports To: Maggie Daley Park Manager
Position Summary:
The Operations Coordinator is responsible for overseeing all second-shift operations at Maggie Daley Park, ensuring the safe, efficient, and seamless execution of daily facility operations while serving as the Manager on Duty (MOD) during evening/weekend hours. In this role, the Operations Coordinator provides operational oversight across the park while directly managing two key attractions: the Rock-Climbing Wall and the Ice-Skating Ribbon. This position oversees part-time staff, including climbing instructors and seasonal Ribbon staff. The role ensures exceptional guest service, compliance with Legends Global's safety and operational standards, and the efficient coordination of staff and daily operations.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist Maggie Daley Park Manager with interviews, hiring and scheduling of seasonal staff
  • Working alongside park stakeholders such as Mini Golf, Concessions and CPkD programming to ensure smooth operations and strong communication
  • Train new hires on standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and customer service expectations
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
  • Ensure staff adhere to uniform, attendance, and conduct standards
  • Conduct daily safety checks of the climbing wall, harnesses, belay systems, ice rink surface, and playground areas
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards for climbing, skating, playground and overall park operations, including incident response protocols
  • Monitor and document incident reports, equipment concerns, and preventative safety measures
  • Work with Maggie Daley Park Manager and Operations Manager to quickly address hazards or equipment failures
  • Support the execution of emergency response procedures in coordination with park leadership as needed
  • Ensure cleaning, security and operational standards are implemented daily
  • Assist the Maggie Daley Park Manager in overseeing staffing levels to optimize coverage, budget alignment, and guest experience
  • Serve as the on-site leadership representative during operating hours for guests, parents, and vendors
  • Resolve guest complaints or conflicts promptly and professionally
  • Conduct routine walkthroughs to ensure signage, rentals, and equipment are accessible, clean, and in good condition
  • Oversee ticketing, rental, and check-in processes to ensure smooth operation and minimize wait times
  • Plan and execute seasonal transitions (e.g., from skating to climbing season)
  • Monitor weather and environmental conditions to support safe and effective operational decisions
  • Assist in developing and delivering zamboni operator trainings
  • Upkeep adequate inventory levels of safety equipment, rental skates, climbing shoes, chalk, ice melt, first aid supplies, and other operational materials
  • Participate in facility maintenance and improvement meetings with vendors and contractors while supporting project coordination efforts
  • Complete other job responsibilities and duties as assigned

Qualifications:
  • 2-4 years of experience in operations, recreation, facility management, or similar field
  • Supervisory experience with part-time or seasonal staff
  • CPR/First Aid certification required or ability to obtain certification upon hire
  • Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills
  • Ability to work weekends, holidays, and evenings
  • Ability to work flexible shifts
  • Familiarity with climbing wall safety and ice rink operations is a plus
  • Preferred to have Zamboni experience

Work Environment:
  • On-site at Maggie Daley Park
  • Combination of indoor and outdoor work in varying weather conditions
  • Requires walking, standing for extended periods, and occasional lifting

Benefits:
  • Generous Paid Time Off, Sick Time, and Personal Time
  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Investment Plan, with a discretionary employer match up to 3%
  • Employer-paid and supplemental life insurance
  • Short - and long - term disability insurance available

Salary: $55,000 - $60,000
To Apply:
Only candidates that apply through our online system will be considered. Applicants that need reasonable accommodations to complete the application process may contact: 312-235-7148
Recruiter: Maggie Szot
Contact: (312)-235-7148
Soldier Field - ASM Global
1410 S. Museum Campus Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA Federal Contractor

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About ASM Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ASM Global was formed in October 2019 from the merger of AEG Facilities, the global innovator in live entertainment venues, and SMG, the gold standard in event management. ASM Global is a venue management powerhouse that spans five continents, 14 countries and more than 300 of the world's most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention and exhibit centers, and performing arts venues. As the world's most trusted venue manager, ASM Global provides venue strategy and management, sales, marketing, event booking and programming, construction and design consulting, and pre-opening services. Among the venues in our portfolio are landmark facilities such as McCormick Place & Soldier Field in Chicago, the Los Angeles Convention Center, Tele2 Arena in Stockholm, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Conference Centre in Shenzhen, China and Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place & DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, Michigan. ASM Global also offers food and beverage operations through its concessions and catering companies.

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2019

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