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First Ascent Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Loads & Dynamics Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

LOADS & DYNAMICS ENGINEER (STARFALL) The Starfall team is developing the world's first high ... launch/ascent, on-orbit operations, and re-entry. Strong candidates for this role will have ...

Level III Rope Access Technician (IRATA)

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... first culture built on trust, teamwork, and technical excellence. Primary Responsibilities: * Serve as the on-site rope access team lead, overseeing all rigging, access, and descent/ascent activities ...

Senior Manager, Loads & Dynamics

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Next, Haven-1 is expected to become the world's first commercial space station when it launches ... ascent, docking, and on-orbit operations. * Drive execution across the full product lifecycle ...

Manager, Loads & Dynamics

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Next, Haven-1 is expected to become the world's first commercial space station when it launches ... transportation, ascent, docking, and on-orbit operations. * Support execution across multiple ...

Pool Server - Seasonal

Rutherford, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Introduce first-time guests to facilities and services * Provide Food & Beverage service to guests ... Roma, Ascent Automotive Group, Auberge Collection, Congaree, Copilot Capital, Diamond Creek ...

Introduce first-time guests to facilities and services * Provide Food & Beverage service to guests ... Roma, Ascent Automotive Group, Auberge Collection, Congaree, Copilot Capital, Diamond Creek ...

Pool Server - Seasonal

Rutherford, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Introduce first-time guests to facilities and services * Provide Food & Beverage service to guests ... Roma, Ascent Automotive Group, Auberge Collection, Congaree, Copilot Capital, Diamond Creek ...

Pool Server

Los Olivos, CA ยท On-site

$16.90/hr

Introduce first-time guests to facilities and services * Provide Food & Beverage service to guests ... Roma, Ascent Automotive Group, Auberge Collection, Congaree, Copilot Capital, Diamond Creek ...

Pool Server

Los Olivos, CA ยท On-site

$16.90/hr

Introduce first-time guests to facilities and services * Provide Food & Beverage service to guests ... Roma, Ascent Automotive Group, Auberge Collection, Congaree, Copilot Capital, Diamond Creek ...

Loads & Dynamics Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

LOADS & DYNAMICS ENGINEER (STARFALL) The Starfall team is developing the world's first high ... launch/ascent, on-orbit operations, and re-entry. Strong candidates for this role will have ...

Aerothermal Engineer II

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$103K - $155K/yr

  • PTO

Recently, we completed the preliminary design and analysis of Terran R including Relativity's first ... Scope and develop aerothermal databases for ascent and entry, including uncertainty quantification ...

Aerothermal Engineer II

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$103K - $155K/yr

  • PTO

Recently, we completed the preliminary design and analysis of Terran R including Relativity's first ... Scope and develop aerothermal databases for ascent and entry, including uncertainty quantification ...

Showing results 41-60

First Ascent information

See California salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do first ascent jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for first ascent in California is $18.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.59 and $20.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Infographic showing various First Ascent job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,820 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Level III Rope Access Technician (IRATA)

Team Industrial Services, Inc.

Benicia, CA โ€ข On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

Per diem

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

About Team:

TEAM, Inc. is a global leader in integrated asset integrity solutions, offering high-quality inspection, heat treating, and specialized maintenance services to the refining, petrochemical, power, pipeline, aerospace, and other industrial sectors. We are committed to safety, innovation, and performance excellence—delivering services that ensure asset reliability and minimize downtime.

Position Overview:

TEAM is seeking an experienced, technically capable, and safety-focused Rope Access Level III Inspector to lead rope access operations and perform advanced inspections in the field. This role functions as both a worksite supervisor and technical resource, responsible for rigging oversight, rescue planning, and mentoring lower-level rope access team members. The ideal candidate holds multi-discipline inspection certifications (API, NDT, CWI, etc.) and has extensive experience managing rope access scopes in refining, petrochemical, or heavy industrial environments.

Why Team:

  • Excellent benefits, 401k match, paid vacation and holidays, overtime with full travel and per-diem paid.
  • Work with top-tier equipment and support teams in a high-impact environment.
  • Opportunities for training along with growth into other inspection or technical services, project management or leadership roles.
  • A performance-driven, safety-first culture built on trust, teamwork, and technical excellence.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Serve as the on-site rope access team lead, overseeing all rigging, access, and descent/ascent activities per SPRAT or IRATA Level III standards.
  • Perform complex inspections in elevated or confined locations using rope access techniques:
  • Lead daily safety briefings, rescue planning, and job hazard analysis.
  • Supervise and mentor Level I and Level II rope access personnel; ensure adherence to safe work practices.
  • Interface with project managers, engineers, and client representatives to coordinate access plans and inspection deliverables.
  • Execute or oversee installation of rope systems, anchors, lifelines, and safety zones according to industry and site-specific standards.
  • Participate in and lead rescue scenarios and ensure rescue gear is maintained, staged, and ready for deployment.
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, SPRAT/IRATA guidelines, and TEAM safety protocols.
  • Review inspection data, provide QA/QC oversight, and assist in reporting and documentation.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Multiple NDT Level II certifications or ASNT/PCN/CGSB equivalencies.
  • API 510/570/653, CWI, AMPP or other advanced certifications.
  • Radiation Safety Training / IRRSP or State Industrial Radiographer Card (if applicable to RT).
  • Familiarity with digital reporting systems or NDT data software.
  • Prior experience managing access scopes during shutdowns or turnarounds.
  • Additional training in rescue coordination, rigging, or scaffold alternatives.
  • Prior experience working in refineries, petrochemical plants, pipeline projects, or fabrication shops.
  • Current TWIC, OSHA 10/30, or other industry-standard safety certifications.
  • Previous experience supporting mechanical integrity or turnaround inspection programs.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills for both technical and crew leadership tasks.

Required Qualifications:

  • Valid IRATA Level III certification in good standing.
  • 3–5+ years of field experience in industrial rope access operations.
  • Demonstrated leadership ability in rigging, job planning, and worksite supervision.
  • Familiarity with structural, piping, or pressure system configurations in industrial plants.
  • Proven ability to operate under pressure and manage field teams safely and effectively.
  • Physically fit for rope access work; able to pass fit-for-duty physicals and site-specific requirements.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment background checks, TWIC, DISA, and site-specific onboarding.
  • Strong work ethic with a safety-first mindset.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds.
  • Sufficient personal mobility to maneuver in a standard, refinery or plant environment to include the ability to access elevated platforms via ladders and stairwells except when performing non-field duties.
  • Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits employees to communicate effectively.
  • Sufficient vision or other powers of observation, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits employees to investigations.
  • Sufficient manual dexterity with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to perform routine office duties.
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodations to perform office duties and travel when necessary to off-site locations.
  • Ability to maintain focus and multitask with effective communication skills.

Work Conditions:

  • Position is based out of a TEAM field office or client site location.
  • Field duties require indoor and outdoor work in a plant atmosphere.
  • Interaction with other crew employees, as well as supervisors and client personnel.
  • Working in plant and/or shop areas around production machinery with extreme noise levels.
  • Able to wear safety equipment for any task and as required by the safety department for personal protection.
  • May be at more than one job site in a day and must be able to tolerate climate changes.
  • May be required to travel out of town on a periodic basis.
  • Willingness and ability to work extended shifts, weekends, and alternative work schedules as required.
  • Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in various environmental conditions.

Additional Job Description

Anticipated compensation for this role is $90,000.00– $115,000.00 per year plus benefits.
Note: Disclosure as required by Cal. Lab. Code § 432.3 of the pay range for this role when being hired into our locations in California. Team reserves the right to pay more or less than the pasted range. Actual compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, and geography.

This job description outlines the general tasks and work difficulty for the position but does not specify the exact duties and responsibilities of individual roles.

It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision.

The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.

TEAM Industrial Services, Inc. strictly prohibits discrimination against applicants, employees, or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex, gender, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local laws.

TEAM’s Core Values

Safety First / Quality Always – In everything we do

Integrity – Uncompromising standards of integrity and ethical conduct

Service Leadership – Leading Service Quality, professionalism and responsiveness

Innovation – Supports continuous growth and improvement

Pride and Respect – For our customers, for each other and for all our stakeholders

Teamwork – Global teamwork and collaboration