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Route Setter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Route Setter Reports to: 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:

As a Route Setter, you will have the responsibility of delivering a safe customer experience in line with our Chelsea Piers Standards of Excellence. The responsibilities and duties described here are ...

Route Setter

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$25/hr

As a Route Setter, you will have the responsibility of delivering a safe customer experience in line with our Chelsea Piers Standards of Excellence. The responsibilities and duties described here are ...

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How much do route setter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 is a route setter?

A Route Setter is responsible for designing and installing climbing routes on indoor climbing walls or outdoor facilities. They arrange holds in specific sequences to create challenges for climbers of all skill levels. The job requires creativity, problem-solving, and an understanding of climbing techniques to ensure routes are engaging, fun, and safe. Route Setters also inspect holds, adjust difficulty levels, and maintain climbing walls.

What does a route setter do?

A typical day for a Route Setter involves brainstorming and planning new routes, physically setting holds on climbing walls, and testing climbs to fine-tune difficulty and safety. Setters often work early mornings or during facility downtime to minimize disruption to visitors, collaborating closely with other setters and the gym management. Throughout the day, you'll also inspect existing routes, rotate out older climbs, perform safety checks, and provide feedback to climbers. The work is hands-on, creative, and highly collaborative, making it both physically engaging and rewarding for those passionate about climbing.

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

To thrive as a Route Setter, you need strong physical fitness, creative problem-solving ability, and a deep understanding of climbing movement and safety standards. Experience with route setting tools (such as impact drivers and ladders), knowledge of PPE usage, and, in some cases, certifications from organizations like the Climbing Wall Association are beneficial. Collaboration, communication, and a keen eye for detail are important soft skills for designing engaging and accessible climbing routes. These qualifications ensure routes are challenging, safe, and enjoyable for climbers of all abilities while supporting a positive team culture.

How do you become a route setter?

To become a route setter, individuals typically gain experience in climbing and develop an understanding of movement and safety. Many start by working at climbing gyms, learn to use route-setting tools, and may pursue certifications or training in climbing instruction or safety standards to improve their skills and job prospects.
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What states have the most Route Setter jobs?

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Infographic showing various Route Setter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,201 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Assistant Route Setter

Glastonbury, CT • On-site

Central Rock Gym
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 11 - 50 employees

$15 - $19/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Title: Assistant Route Setter
Reports to: 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 Central Rock Gym
Central Rock Gym isn't just a climbing gym - it's a community-powered space where confidence is built, limits are challenged, and everyone is welcome. From first-time climbers nervously tying in to seasoned athletes projecting hard routes, CRG is a place where people come to grow - physically, mentally, and socially.
Our gyms are vibrant, high-energy environments that combine world-class climbing with fitness, youth programs, and a strong sense of belonging. What truly sets us apart isn't just the walls - it's the people who create the experience every day.
Summary
The Assistant Route Setter supports the Head Setter in daily operations, including setting, stripping, cleaning, and maintaining holds and walls. They help ensure consistent, creative, and safe routes and boulders while contributing to competitions and facility upkeep.
Responsibilities
  • Assist with setting, stripping, cleaning, and organizing holds
  • Forerun and set routes up to 5.12 and boulders up to V6+
  • Maintain quality, consistency, and grading accuracy
  • Support the Head Setter with scheduling and workflow coordination
  • Assist with competition setup and execution
  • Conduct maintenance (fixing spinners, inspecting auto belays, etc.)
  • Follow all safety protocols and use fall protection appropriately
  • Stay informed on climbing trends and techniques
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
  • Flexible schedule with early morning and afternoon availability
  • 2+ years of climbing and route setting experience required
  • PRS 1, WAH 1, and USAC 1 certifications preferred
  • Friendly, approachable, and energetic personality
  • Comfortable working at heights of 40+ feet and using ropes, ladders, and lifts
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Competent with power tools (impact drivers, angle grinders, etc.)
  • Strong attention to detail and work ethic
  • Self-motivated, independent, and collaborative team player