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First Ascent Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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 - Avondale

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20/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

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 ...

Ascent Acquisitions Inc

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Entry Level Client Representative - Sales

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Must be living in the Chicago area for consideration with reliable transportation Work Perks at Ascent Acquisitions: * Paid training * Uncapped commissions and unlimited earning potential. Our first ...

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Ascent Acquisitions Inc

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Entry Level Client Representative - Sales

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Must be living in the Chicago area for consideration with reliable transportation Work Perks at Ascent Acquisitions: * Paid training * Uncapped commissions and unlimited earning potential. Our first ...

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Ascent Acquisitions Inc

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Sales Representative - Entry Level

Aurora, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Initiate sales presentations and close contracts Joining Ascent Acquisitions means more than ... Our first year Sales Reps average between $55,000-65,000+ * Upward mobility * Training and ...

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Ascent Acquisitions Inc

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Sales Representative - Entry Level

Aurora, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Initiate sales presentations and close contracts Joining Ascent Acquisitions means more than ... Our first year Sales Reps average between $55,000-65,000+ * Upward mobility * Training and ...

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First Ascent information

See Illinois salary details

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$16

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How much do first ascent jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for first ascent in Illinois is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $17.93 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.

What are popular job titles related to First Ascent jobs in Illinois?

For First Ascent jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Ascent jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for First Ascent jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for First Ascent jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most First Ascent job openings:

First Ascent jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Ascent job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,787 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Program Manager - Arlington Heights

First Ascent LLC

Arlington Heights, IL • On-site

$41K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 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 for a proactive, positive, supportive leader to serve as Program Manager, helping us continually get better at what we do as we discover how to best serve our members and guests.

ROLE SUMMARY

As a Program Manager, you provide the leadership and exemplary experience for those that participate in First Ascent classes and events. Along with the gym manager and hospitality manager, you will be responsible for the day to day operations and performance of the gyms programming. As the Program Manager, you will be an integral piece of the FA team and will be working every day to grow the climbing community. This requires someone with exceptional communication and organizational skills who is results oriented and thrives while working as part of a team—and can have a blast along the way.

The below responsibilities are subject to change based on the needs of the organization.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Staffing

  • Will be primarily responsible for managing First Ascent programming, including groups and special events, adult and youth classes, Summer Camp, Guided sessions and the yoga and fitness programs

  • Assist gym leadership team with hiring, motivating, coaching, and terminating staff

  • Assist gym leadership team with conducting performance reviews of staff

FA Climbing and Fitness Culture

  • Ensure that the FA mission and values are communicated and implemented

  • Work to create a community atmosphere for members and guests

  • Work with Gym manager and the Initiatives manager to create unique events that will appeal to your gym clientele

Facilities

  • With the gym leadership team utilize staff and outside vendors to keep the facility at an acceptable level of cleanliness for clientele

JOB DETAILS

  • Full-time, salaried role: $41,000–$45,000 annually, based on experience

  • Position will report to the Arlington Heights Manager

  • PTO package. Health, Dental, Vision & Disability Insurance Offered

  • 401(k) Plan Offered

  • Free membership to all First Ascent locations

  • Access to pro-deals

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

  • Exceptional communication and creative problem-solving skills, solid computer skills

  • Friendly demeanor, positive attitude and adaptability to various personality types

  • Flexible working style and ability to multi-task, set priorities and manage time effectively

  • Enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and love of climbing and fitness

  • Demonstrated knowledge of climbing equipment and proper belay technique

  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office based systems, as well as strong computer skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ENVIRONMENT

  • Ability to stand and move throughout the facility for extended periods

  • Ability able to concentrate through distraction and communicate effectively

  • Indoor, climate-controlled environment with moderate to loud noise levels

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 at faclimbing.com/about.