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Head Route Setter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Central Rock Gym

Mass Posting - Head Route Setter

Troy, NY · On-site

$49K - $58K/yr

Head Route Setter Reports to : General Manager / Regional Director of Route Setting Pay Range: 2+ years of experience in Route Setting - $49,920 - $58,220/annually 2 - 4 years of experience as a Head ...

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How much do head route setter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for head route setter in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a head route setter do?

A Head Route Setter is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the creation of climbing routes in gyms or climbing facilities. They lead a team of route setters, ensuring that routes are varied, safe, and suitable for climbers of different skill levels. The Head Route Setter also manages the maintenance of holds and equipment, collaborates with gym management for events or competitions, and maintains high safety and quality standards throughout the facility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head route setter?

To thrive as a Head Route Setter, you need advanced climbing ability, in-depth knowledge of movement and safety standards, and experience in route setting, usually supported by certifications such as the CWA Route Setter Certification. Familiarity with specialized tools (e.g., impact drivers, wrenches) and route-setting software is essential for daily operations. Strong leadership, creativity, and effective communication are critical soft skills for managing teams and designing engaging routes. These skills ensure routes are safe, challenging, and enjoyable, while fostering a collaborative and efficient setting team.

What are some common challenges faced by a head route setter and how can they be managed?

A Head Route Setter often faces challenges such as balancing creativity with safety standards, managing a diverse team of setters, and meeting the expectations of climbers of varying skill levels. Effective communication and organization are essential for scheduling, distributing tasks, and ensuring routes are set on time for competitions or regular gym updates. Staying up-to-date with industry trends and collaborating closely with gym management and coaching staff can help address feedback and continuously improve the climbing experience.

What is the difference between Head Route Setter vs Route Setter?

AspectHead Route SetterRoute Setter
CredentialsTypically requires experience and certifications in climbing gym operations and route settingRequires climbing and route setting experience, often with certifications or training
Work EnvironmentLeads and oversees route setting teams in climbing gyms or competitionsPerforms route setting tasks in climbing gyms or similar facilities
ResponsibilitiesDesigns, plans, and supervises route setting; manages teamSets climbing routes and maintains quality standards

The main difference is that the Head Route Setter manages and oversees the route setting team and process, while the Route Setter focuses on creating and maintaining climbing routes. The Head Route Setter has additional leadership responsibilities and often requires more experience and certifications.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Route Setter jobs?

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Head Route Setter jobs near you

ASSISTANT HEAD ROUTE SETTER

Los Angeles, CA

SENDER ONE SERVICE LLC
See more jobs at SENDER ONE SERVICE LLCexternal

$28 - $31/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Overview:

An Assistant Head Route Setter is someone who leads the dynamic route setting team! The Assistant Head Route Setter is a highly motivated individual who loves creating new challenges for the community, seeking opportunities to further their understanding of climbing movement through practice, and sharing their passion for climbing with the Sender One community.

Responsibilities:

  • Co-leads the route setting team to achieve daily and weekly goals;
  • Works closely with the Head Route Setter and Director of Route Setting to align teams with departmental goals and company goals;
  • Creates top-quality routes and boulders that foster a challenging and unique climbing experience;
  • Assists team members to meet team goals and proactively troubleshoot issues as they arise throughout the workday;
  • Mentors new and veteran setters toward the shared route-setting vision;
  • Holds route setters accountable to company and route-setting department standards;
  • Records, manages, and analyzes route setting data to assist team goals;
  • Tests out new climbs and contributes creative advice for improvement of those new climbs, utilizing positive and effective communication;
  • Assists with the set-up and breakdown of the days work location, and removal of old climbs from the wall;
  • Leads, teaches, and performs occasional wall maintenance activities;
  • Sets climbs for, and provides assistance for, special events including Member Climbing Leagues, USAC Youth Competitions, and IFSC-partner Events;
  • Assists other departments such as Youth Programs, Facilities, and Customer Experience to create long-lasting positive relationships with members and guests;
  • Manages the teams appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

Profile:

  • Proven leadership ability in an educational, fitness, or professional setting;
  • Ability to harness imagination and find novel approaches to shared responsibilities;
  • Ability to learn and grow from each task, challenge, and interaction while seeing them through to the end;
  • Open to receiving & providing feedback, guidance, insight, assistance, and perspective professionally;
  • Critical and strategic thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills;
  • Work with a team, provide support to fellow team members, share ideas, and earn trust;
  • Take initiative and have the drive to grow professionally.

Industry Experience:

  • Top rope & lead belay experience;
  • 2+ years of route-setting preferred;
  • Minimum ability to climb 5.12 and v7 regularly, preferred;
  • USAC credentials welcomed;
  • Competition-planning and competition-setting experience.

Time Commitment:

  • Must be able to work at least 32 hours per workweek;
  • Must be able to work certain morning, night, and alternate weekend day shifts depending on the business and/or operational needs;
  • Must be able to attend the Mandatory All Staff Quarterly meeting.

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