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First Ascent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

First Ascent LLC

HOLDS WASHER - BLOCK 37

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05/hr

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and ...

First Ascent LLC

FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Chicago, IL · Remote

ABOUT FIRST ASCENT CLIMBING & FITNESS: First Ascent is focused on growing a vibrant community that shares a passion for climbing and fitness. For more information, please visit www.faclimbing.com.

First Ascent LLC

Routesetter - Chicago

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and ...

First Ascent LLC

Routesetter - Chicago

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and ...

First Ascent LLC

Routesetter - Chicago

Chicago, IL · Remote

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and ...

First Ascent LLC

FACILITIES SPECIALIST

Chicago, IL · Remote

$22 - $26/hr

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is focused on growing a vibrant community that shares a passion for climbing and fitness. For more information, please visit www.faclimbing.com Our mission at First ...

First Ascent LLC

Hospitality Staff - Block 37

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $19/hr

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is a startup company. We are assembling a team of people that will help us continually get better at what we do as we discover how to best serve our members and ...

First Ascent LLC

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

Peoria, IL · On-site

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is a rapidly growing company. We are assembling a team of people that will help us continually get better at what we do as we discover how to best serve our members ...

First Ascent LLC

Hospitality Staff - Peoria

Peoria, IL · On-site

$12.25 - $16.75/hr

ABOUT FIRST ASCENT CLIMBING & FITNESS: As a locally grown business, funded by Chicago area rock climbers, First Ascent is focused on growing a vibrant community that shares a passion for climbing and ...

First Ascent LLC

Route Setter - Peoria

Peoria, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

ABOUT FIRST ASCENT CLIMBING & FITNESS: FA is focused on growing a vibrant community that shares a passion for climbing and fitness. For more information, please visit www.faclimbing.com, or facebook ...

Vail Mountain

Manager Epic Ascent

Vail, CO

$57K - $71K/yr

Whether it's your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means ... Epic Ascent is built around the belief that extraordinary mountain experiences don't happen by ...

Vail Resorts

Manager Epic Ascent

Vail, CO · On-site

$57K - $71K/yr

Whether it's your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means ... Epic Ascent is built around the belief that extraordinary mountain experiences don't happen by ...

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First Ascent information

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How much do first ascent jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for first ascent in the United States is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between First Ascent vs Rock Climber?

AspectFirst AscentRock Climber
Required CredentialsTraining in climbing techniques, safety, and sometimes certificationsSimilar training; certifications vary by level and location
Work EnvironmentClimbing gyms, outdoor cliffs, adventure parksOutdoor cliffs, mountains, indoor climbing gyms
Industry UsageClimbing competitions, outdoor expeditions, adventure tourismRecreational climbing, competitions, outdoor expeditions

First Ascent refers to the act of being the first person to successfully climb a route or mountain, often requiring specialized skills and sometimes certifications. Rock Climber is a broader term for anyone engaging in climbing activities, whether recreationally or competitively. While both roles involve climbing skills and similar environments, First Ascent emphasizes pioneering new routes, whereas Rock Climber focuses on general climbing activities.

What are some common challenges faced by First Ascent guides when leading beginner climbers, and how can they be addressed?

First Ascent Guides often work with climbers who are new to the sport and may feel anxious about heights or unfamiliar equipment. A key challenge is balancing safety with encouragement, ensuring that participants learn proper techniques while building confidence. Guides must communicate instructions clearly, monitor group dynamics, and adapt their teaching style to varying skill levels. Building rapport and fostering a supportive environment helps new climbers overcome fears and enjoy a positive experience.

What is a First Ascent guide?

First Ascent guides are professional outdoor experts who lead and assist climbers, hikers, or adventurers during their initial attempt to reach the summit of a mountain or complete a challenging climbing route. These guides provide safety instruction, technical support, and local knowledge to ensure a successful and safe ascent. Their expertise is especially valuable for those attempting new or difficult climbs, often referred to as 'first ascents,' where there is little to no prior information about the route. They also help with logistics, equipment selection, and risk management throughout the journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Ascent guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Ascent Guide, you need advanced climbing skills, risk assessment abilities, and certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and professional climbing guide credentials. Familiarity with technical gear like ropes, anchors, navigation devices, and route-mapping software is essential. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help manage group dynamics and respond to unexpected challenges. These skills ensure safety, successful expedition outcomes, and a positive experience for all participants in demanding and unpredictable environments.
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What cities are hiring for First Ascent jobs? Cities with the most First Ascent job openings:
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First Ascent jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Ascent job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,644 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

HOLDS WASHER - BLOCK 37

First Ascent LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17.05/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and communities. We are looking to grow our Routesetting team with proactive, friendly, and psyched individuals who will help us continually get better at what we do as we discover how to best serve our members and guests.

ROLE SUMMARY

As a Hold Washer at First Ascent's Block 37 location, you play a critical role in maintaining a clean, safe, and high-quality climbing environment. This position is responsible for cleaning climbing holds used in setting new routes and boulder problems. You’ll work closely with the Head Setter and we are looking for a candidate that is detail-oriented, organized and comfortable working independently.

We’re committed to building a diverse routesetting team and encourage individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, strengths, and perspectives to apply — we value a strong work ethic, openness to feedback, and enthusiasm for learning.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Clean and maintain climbing holds using a pressure washer or industrial washer following gym protocols.

  • Sort and organize holds by color, size, shape, and texture after cleaning.

  • Ensure safety and cleanliness of the hold washing station and surrounding work areas.

  • Report damaged or unsafe holds and equipment to the Head Routesetter or Manager.

  • Follow all safety procedures related to hold washing and equipment handling.

JOB DETAILS

  • Hourly, part-time position (approximately 2 - 5 hours per week)

  • Starting hourly pay range starting at $17.05

  • Free membership to all First Ascent locations

  • Access to industry pro deals


WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

  • Basic understanding of climbing holds and gym operations preferred.

  • Physically able to lift, move, and wash heavy buckets of holds (up to 50 lbs.).

  • Able to work in a wet and physically active environment.

  • Strong work ethic with the ability to work independently and as part of a small team

  • Strong attention to detail and time management skills.


EEO STATEMENT
First Ascent is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. First Ascent does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, protective order status, military status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, ancestry, pregnancy or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. First Ascent prohibits harassment of any individual on any of the protected characteristics listed above.


ABOUT FIRST ASCENT CLIMBING & FITNESS
Since 2015, First Ascent Climbing & Fitness has been sharing our love of climbing, yoga and fitness with everyone that walks through our doors. With 8 gyms in the First Ascent family, we’re excited to keep serving and growing the climbing community, one climber at a time.


Learn more about us atfaclimbing.com/about.


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