ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Head Route Setter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Central Rock Gym

Assistant Route Setter

Glastonbury, CT · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Head Route Setter Pay Range: 0 - 1 years of experience - $15 - $19/hr 1 - 2 years of experience - $17 - $22/hr 2+ years of expereience - $22 - $24/hr Locations: Glastonbury & West Hartford, CT About ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsHead Route Setter Jobs

Head Route Setter information

See salary details

$12

$19

$30

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.

What cities are hiring for Head Route Setter jobs?

Cities with the most Head Route Setter job openings:

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

The most popular types of Route Setter jobs are:

What states have the most Head Route Setter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Head Route Setter jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Head Route Setter jobs?

For Head Route Setter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Head Route Setter jobs near you

Mass Posting - Head Route Setter

Syracuse, NY • On-site

Central Rock Gym
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Central Rock Gymexternal

$68K - $81K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

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 Setter - $58,240 - $68,620/annually

4+ years of experience as a Head Setter - $68,640 - $81,100/annually

Locations: Syracuse, NY

Summary The Head Route Setter leads the local setting team, overseeing all aspects of route setting operations and maintenance. They ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all routes and boulders, while mentoring Assistant and Apprentice Setters. The Head Setter collaborates closely with management and the Regional Director to deliver the best possible climbing experience for the gym community.

Responsibilities
  • Lead, schedule, and supervise the local route setting team
  • Ensure consistency, quantity, and quality of all routes and boulder problems
  • Forerun and set routes up to 5.13a and problems up to V7
  • Coordinate with management on staffing, scheduling, and competitions
  • Maintain hold inventory and oversee hold cleaning and wall preparation
  • Manage setting zone organization and cleanliness
  • Conduct safety checks, inspections, and auto-belay maintenance
  • Follow all safety protocols and ensure staff compliance
  • Stay up to date on setting trends and industry standards
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Requirements
  • Flexible schedule with early morning and afternoon availability
  • 2+ years of climbing and route setting experience required
  • PRS 2, WAH 2 required, USAC 1 certification preferred
  • Friendly, approachable, and energetic personality
  • Comfortable working at heights of 40+ feet and on ropes, ladders, and lifts
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Skilled with power tools (impact drivers, angle grinders, etc.)
  • Highly organized with excellent attention to detail
  • Self-motivated, independent, and team-oriented
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply