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Ropes Course Instructor Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

... High Ropes course and other team building activities as requested by the Program Director ... Supervises clients and/or other special services instructors while participating in climbing tower ...

Group Services Instructor

Boiling Springs, PA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

... High Ropes course and other team building activities as requested by the Program Director ... Supervises clients and/or other special services instructors while participating in climbing tower ...

Ropes Course Instructor information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$9

$33

$72

How much do ropes course instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for ropes course instructor in Pennsylvania is $33.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $61.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ropes course instructor?

Ropes Course Instructors are professionals trained to guide participants through ropes courses, which are adventure-based activities involving high and low obstacle elements made of ropes, cables, and wood. They are responsible for ensuring safety, providing instruction on equipment use, leading group activities, and facilitating team-building exercises. Instructors also conduct safety checks, demonstrate proper techniques, and support participants to overcome challenges and build confidence. They typically work at camps, outdoor education centers, or adventure parks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ropes course instructor?

To thrive as a Ropes Course Instructor, you need a solid understanding of safety protocols, group facilitation, and basic first aid, often supported by certifications like CPR/First Aid and ropes course facilitation. Familiarity with technical equipment such as harnesses, belay devices, and inspection checklists is essential. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help instructors build trust and effectively guide diverse groups through challenging experiences. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring participant safety, promoting teamwork, and delivering a positive learning environment.

What is the difference between Ropes Course Instructor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectRopes Course InstructorCamp Counselor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Ropes Course CertificationCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized camp certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor adventure parks, team-building facilitiesSummer camps, residential or day camps
Job FocusFacilitating high ropes courses, safety oversightSupervising campers, organizing activities

Both roles often require CPR and First Aid certifications and involve outdoor settings. Ropes Course Instructors focus on safety and facilitating adventure activities, while Camp Counselors oversee camper well-being and organize daily activities. The roles complement each other in outdoor youth programs but differ in specific responsibilities and environments.

What are some common challenges ropes course instructors face, and how can they be addressed?

Ropes Course Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing participants' fears, ensuring safety protocols are consistently followed, and adapting activities to diverse skill levels. To address these, clear communication, patience, and strong observation skills are crucial. Instructors should foster a supportive environment, regularly review safety procedures, and tailor their approach to meet the needs of each group, ensuring both safety and a positive experience for all participants.
What are popular job titles related to Ropes Course Instructor jobs in Pennsylvania? For Ropes Course Instructor jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ropes Course Instructor jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Ropes Course Instructor jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Infographic showing various Ropes Course Instructor job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,454 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Group Services Instructor

Diakon

Boiling Springs, PA

$16 - $19.75/hr

Per diem

Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Diakon is one of the premier employers in Pennsylvania and Maryland. We are a non-profit organization which includes Diakon Child, Family, and Community Ministries and Diakon Affordable Housing.
General Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for the facilitation of special group activities assigned through the operations of the Diakon Wilderness Services Special Group program. 
  • Plans and develops specific activities for special group use of the Tower, Low and High Ropes course and other team building activities as requested by the Program Director. 
  • Supervises clients and/or other special services instructors while participating in climbing tower, high ropes, low ropes and other initiatives.
  • Facilitates special group activities, maintaining safe participation, utilizing “challenge by choice” methods, and processing the experience with the clients, helping them to fully realize the goals of the program.  

Education/Training: A Bachelors degree in Experiential Education, Therapeutic Recreation, Outdoor Education or related field of study normally required.

Experience: A minimum of two (2) years' experience in related position normally required. Substantial experience planning and facilitating experiential team-building events normally required.
 

ADA: Ability to sit, stand, lift, bend, reach, push, and pull items weighing up to 50 lbs.; visual and auditory skills

Compensation and Benefits:
Diakon offers a competitive compensation and benefits package.

  • 401(k) plan with employer match

Staff receive excellent training through a comprehensive paid general orientation including customer service training. We offer continuing training and education, provide the ability for career advancement, and host staff appreciation and special events. Diakon also maintains a discretionary emergency fund, which can be of assistance to staff members during critical times. In addition, Diakon offers a Love of Thy Neighbor Fund, which provides a per-day living expense and matches up to five PTO days for approved service or mission trips with other nonprofit organizations.


Diakon is an equal opportunity employer.
EOE/M/F/VETS/Disabled