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First Ascent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Urban Designer

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $189K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Ascent is looking for a Lead Urban Designer to join our Urban Design ... As a people-first organization, we value and will strive to ascend by welcoming and uplifting all ...

Description Ascent is looking for a Lead Urban Designer to join our Urban Design + Planning Studio ... As a people-first organization, we value and will strive to ascend by welcoming and uplifting all ...

M-W field/office, Th-F WFH _____ RedCliff Ascent is a licensed, accredited wilderness therapy ... Current Utah driver's license (within 30 days of employment) * 1st Aid & CPR certified (we may ...

Primary Therapist

Enterprise, UT ยท Hybrid

$75K/yr

M-W field/office, Th-F WFH _____ RedCliff Ascent is a licensed, accredited wilderness therapy ... Current Utah driver's license (within 30 days of employment) * 1st Aid & CPR certified (we may ...

Primary Therapist

Enterprise, UT ยท Hybrid

$75K/yr

M-W field/office, Th-F WFH _____ RedCliff Ascent is a licensed, accredited wilderness therapy ... Current Utah driver's license (within 30 days of employment) * 1st Aid & CPR certified (we may ...

M-W field/office, Th-F WFH RedCliff Ascent is a licensed, accredited wilderness therapy program ... Current Utah driver's license (within 30 days of employment) * 1st Aid & CPR certified (we may ...

M-W field/office, Th-F WFH _____ RedCliff Ascent is a licensed, accredited wilderness therapy ... Current Utah driver's license (within 30 days of employment) * 1st Aid & CPR certified (we may ...

Residential Shift Supervisor

Provo, UT ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

At Oasis Ascent, we provide thorough assessment, around-the-clock secure care, and intensive ... Current Utah driver's license (within 30 days of employment) * 1st Aid & CPR certified (we may ...

IT Support Analyst

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Ascent Data is seeking an IT Support Analyst to join our team. This position is an excellent ... Serve as the first line of technical support for our customers and end users. * Take ownership of ...

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First Ascent information

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How much do first ascent jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 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 are First Ascent guides?

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.
More about First Ascent jobs
What cities are hiring for First Ascent jobs? Cities with the most First Ascent job openings:
What states have the most First Ascent jobs? States with the most job openings for First Ascent jobs include:
Infographic showing various First Ascent job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,644 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Lead Urban Designer

Ascent

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$135K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Ascent is looking for a Lead Urban Designer to join our Urban Design + Planning Studio. Our ideal candidate is a seasoned urban designer with deep California experience, a collaborative attitude, and a track record of leading specific plans, master plans, community plans, zoning, form-based codes, design standards, feasibility studies, and community engagement. We are looking for someone with a collaborative attitude, the ability to go beyond convention and develop creative and elegant solutions, and an interest in being part of a fast-paced design studio.
This is a leadership role within our Urban Design + Planning Studio. In a typical week, you might:
  • Drive the design vision - Lead specific plans, master plans, and other urban design and planning projects from concept to delivery, including visioning, site analysis, feasibility studies, and design concepts and strategies.
  • Mentor and elevate the team - Provide guidance, technical expertise, and mentoring to more junior members of the Urban Design + Planning Studio, and collaborate across disciplines, including climate action planning, environmental planning, and natural resources.
  • Develop compelling visuals - Develop 2D and 3D plans and graphics, massing studies, site plans, concept diagrams, 3D renderings, and before/after simulations that bring ideas to life.
  • Prepare graphically rich reports - Produce graphically-rich reports, presentations, and planning documents using InDesign and PowerPoint.
  • Engage the Community - Lead inclusive community engagement and outreach activities, workshops, and meetings for both in-person and virtual outreach.
  • Help grow the practice - Lead business development activities, including identifying opportunities, preparing proposals, leading interviews, and cultivating client relationships.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Requirements
  • A minimum of 12-15 years of consulting experience in urban design and planning, with advanced knowledge of the profession as practiced in the State of California, including planning for housing and mixed-use infill, transit-oriented development, and complete streets.
  • A master's degree or other advanced degree in urban design or planning and an undergraduate degree in architecture or landscape architecture, or a similar combination.
  • Professional experience primarily in a consulting environment, leading urban design and planning projects for public or private clients in California.
  • Experience managing complex urban design and planning projects, including managing sub-consultant teams, supervising early career staff, and leading business development activities.
  • Excellent presentation skills, including strong design and graphic communication skills, as well as the ability to present design concepts to the client, community, and others through compelling presentations and storytelling.
  • Advanced graphic, drawing, and 3D modeling/rendering abilities, with demonstrated proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino (or similar 3D modeling/ rendering tools), Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign), PowerPoint, and Excel are required. Advanced knowledge of Lumion or other rendering platforms is preferred.

Why Ascent
We are an Urban Planning + Design Studio that goes beyond convention - immersing ourselves in every project, working collaboratively with our clients and colleagues across many scales from neighborhoods to regions, and producing user-friendly plans, easy-to-navigate codes, and effective design standards that actually get implemented. We encourage creative thinking, high-quality design, and implementable products that genuinely drive change in the communities we serve. At Ascent, you'll have the opportunity to lead meaningful projects, grow your career alongside talented colleagues, and help build something worth being proud of.
Work environment
  • Typical office environment
  • In-office

Physical Demands
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Must be able to lift 15 pounds at a time

Travel
  • Limited travel will be required

Work authorization/security clearance requirements: Not eligible for sponsorship
Additional eligibility requirements: N/A
At Ascent, we believe in fostering a nurturing environment that prioritizes our people. We are committed to holistic investments in our team, offering not only competitive salaries and comprehensive medical benefits but also a range of perks designed to enhance emotional, financial, and physical wellness. A comprehensive listing of benefits offered can be found here .
As a people-first organization, we value and will strive to ascend by welcoming and uplifting all voices, ideas, achievements, and contributions, including those from marginalized communities and identities. We believe that recognizing and embracing our differences makes us a stronger organization. We commit to proactively nurturing environments of mutual support, respect, and caring for all through our words and actions.
Interested in learning more about Ascent's culture? Reach out to our People Resources team at PeopleResources@ascent.inc. We look forward to hearing from you!
EEO Statement
Ascent provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Ascent is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact PeopleResources@ascent.inc.
Ascent strives for equity in every area at Ascent, including compensation. To ensure candidates are paid fairly, the offered salary will fall within this range and will be determined based on the candidate's demonstrated qualifications and alignment with the requirements of the position outlined above.
Salary Description
$135,200-$189,280