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Climbing Wall Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Climbing Staff

Rockford, IL

$15/hr

The Climbing Wall Staff ensures a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment for participants using ... Previous experience working in an instructor position with children preferred * Must obtain ...

YMCA of Rock River Valley

Climbing Staff

Rockford, IL

$15/hr

The Climbing Wall Staff ensures a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment for participants using ... Previous experience working in an instructor position with children preferred * Must obtain ...

YMCA of Rock River Valley

Climbing Staff

Rockford, IL · On-site

$15/hr

The Climbing Wall Staff ensures a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment for participants using ... Previous experience working in an instructor position with children preferred * Must obtain ...

YMCA

Climbing Wall Staff-West Boise YMCA

Boise, ID

$13.45/hr

Our West Boise YMCA is seeking Climbing Wall Staff to join the team! This position is responsible for assisting with the planning, leading and implementing of program experiences for youth in a group ...

YMCA

Climbing Wall Staff-West Boise YMCA

Boise, ID · On-site

$13.45/hr

Our West Boise YMCA is seeking Climbing Wall Staff to join the team! This position is responsible for assisting with the planning, leading and implementing of program experiences for youth in a group ...

Tamus

Coordinator of Outdoor Adventure

Commerce, TX · On-site

$43K - $46K/yr

Must be able to obtain within the first 6 months of employment a AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Certification, as provided by Campus Recreation. * Must be able to obtain within the first 12 months of ...

Tamus

Coordinator of Outdoor Adventure

Commerce, TX · On-site

$43K - $46K/yr

Must be able to obtain within the first 6 months of employment a AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Certification, as provided by Campus Recreation. * Must be able to obtain within the first 12 months of ...

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How much do climbing wall instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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.
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Climbing Wall Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Wall Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,145 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Climbing Instructor

Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Climbing Instructor

Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, OR • On-site

$16.06 - $21.20/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Climbing Instructor
Full or Part Time
Part Time
FTE
.49 FTE
Position Type
Regular
Posting Number
20110508C&A
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The climbing instructor assists the Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) Director in accomplishing programmatic goals and objectives in accordance with the University's established core themes and set forth in the University's strategic plan. The staff member works to promote alignment of the OAP mission with the University's mission to ensure student learning with high-quality programs that foster lifelong success. The staff member assists the OAP Director in ensuring campus recreation programming meets or exceeds the established goals and objectives of the Division of Student Affairs' annual plan and key performance indicators (KPI's).
The Outdoor Adventure Program mission is committed to the process of creating and facilitating exceptional recreation and educational experiences to foster both student and community physical, mental, and emotional development. To that end, the OAP provides outdoor equipment rentals, instructional courses, clinics in a wide range of outdoor activities, guided trips, an indoor climbing facility, and an extensive resource library to all EOU students and community members. The program is dedicated to community outreach, engaging school groups from rural, disadvantaged areas, as well as international cohorts. The OAP strives to inspire future generations of outdoor stewards by providing low-cost, extensive, and inclusive recreational opportunities.
The climbing instructor for the duration of work shift will be exposed to, and be expected to perform, duties inherent to an indoor climbing wall facility. Such work requires the ability to demonstrate advanced climbing techniques. This typically involves the stamina to exercise vigorously, as well as continuous walking, climbing, jumping, and bending. Work involves being suspended to heights of 35 feet. This position requires repetitive foot, arm, shoulder, hand, and back movements while performing instruction. The climbing instructor must adhere to all safety procedures and protocols set forth by the university and designated industry best practices.
This position will work variable hours and there is no guarantee of hours.
Responsibilities
  • Route set and change out climbing holds.
  • Create a variety of boulder and wall problems for climbers of different experience levels.
  • Be comfortable working on ladders with tools at heights of up to 35'.
  • Support and be involved with competitions and events.
  • Conduct belay certification and climbing clinics
  • Solid working knowledge of climbing equipment and their proper and safe use: belay devices, harnesses, knots etc.
  • Introduce risk management best practices to clients at the start of their session.
  • Clinics focus on developing solid and safe belay skills and developing sound lead sport climbing skills in both small and large group settings.
  • Belay for large group events (Church groups, school classes, birthday parties, etc).
  • Ensure visitor compliance with risk management protocols and safety procedures.
  • Maintain climbing wall equipment and gear.
  • Maintain climbing walls, including t-nut replacement, re-painting, and general repairs.
  • Assist with wall stripping, washing, and sorting holds when necessary.
  • Manage payments and memberships.
  • Able to operate a Point-of-Sale (POS) payment system.
  • Handle cash transactions in-person, over the phone, and through online payment system.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Three (3) years of extensive experience in all relevant facets of rock climbing (indoor, outdoor, bouldering, sport, traditional).
  • Must be able to easily climb indoor routes of at least 5.10 grade rating.
  • Solid working knowledge of climbing equipment: belay devices, harnesses, knots, etc.
  • CPR/First Aid certifications must be achieved before start of employment or have current certifications.
  • Demonstrate a high level of rock climbing knowledge and skill proficiency. This includes being able to lead sport climb 5.10 grade routes and has, at minimum, two years of indoor and outdoor climbing experience including bouldering, sport, and traditional.
  • Demonstrate ability to conduct belay certification exams for clients according to a checklist of protocols established by the OAP to ensure all systems and techniques are safe, redundant, and adhered to.
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of Google products (Sheets, Drive, etc) and Microsoft Office suite including Word and Excel.
  • Must have experience working with hand-held power tools (Impact driver, angle grinder, etc).

  • Must satisfactorily complete EOU criminal and credential background check. Having a criminal history is not an automatic bar to employment.
  • In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Eastern Oregon University will not sponsor applicants for employment visas.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Degree from a college or university accredited by a U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation or an internationally recognized accrediting organization.
  • Ability to breakdown, teach, and critique climbing techniques to climbers of all abilities.
  • Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) Certification.
  • Have experience route-setting in an indoor climbing gym.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicant must provide:
1) Letter of application (which should include why this position is attractive to the applicant, how it meets the applicant's professional goals, and what attracts the applicant to EOU);
2) Resume/Curriculum vitae;
3) Submit names, emails, and phone numbers for at least three references in the reference section of the application.
Candidates are encouraged to review the values and principles of Eastern Oregon University.
Only complete files of qualified applicants will be reviewed.
Eastern Oregon University - Oregon's Rural University! - is a respected public, higher education institution of academic excellence. Brilliant faculty and staff thrive and together fulfill their career ambitions to serve students from all walks of life.
EOU is a beautiful, quaint campus nestled in a remarkably scenic, high elevation valley populated by wonderful, community-minded citizens that have balanced work-life flexibility. Take a virtual tour of Eastern Oregon University.
Eastern Oregon University is an EEO Employer and welcomes applications from women, members of historically underrepresented minority groups, US Veterans, and persons with disabilities. EOU is committed to providing equal opportunity in its recruitment, admissions, educational programs, activities and employment without illegal discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, national origin, race, marital status, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or any status as protected by state or federal law.
Salary
$16.06 - $21.20 hourly DOE
Posting Detail Information
Open Date
08/07/2025
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Day of Application Review
Quick Link to Posting
https://eou.peopleadmin.com/postings/2585

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