ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Route Setter Climbing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Central Rock Gym

Mass Posting - Head Route Setter

Troy, NY · On-site

$49K - $58K/yr

Title: Head Route Setter Reports to : General Manager / Regional Director of Route Setting Pay ... From first-time climbers nervously tying in to seasoned athletes projecting hard routes, CRG is a ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRoute Setter Climbing Jobs

Route Setter Climbing information

See salary details

$12

$19

$30

How much do route setter climbing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for route setter climbing 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Route Setter Climbing position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Route Setter Climbing, you need strong technical climbing ability, creativity in route design, and an understanding of movement and safety, often supported by prior indoor climbing experience or setting certification. Familiarity with route setting tools, PPE, impact drivers, and possibly certifications like CWA or USAC Level 1 Setting can be important. Effective communication, teamwork, and attention to feedback are essential soft skills in this collaborative and dynamic position. These skills ensure diverse, challenging climbs are created safely and efficiently, driving an engaging customer experience at climbing gyms.

What does a typical day look like for a Route Setter Climbing position?

A typical day for a Route Setter Climbing role involves collaborating with other setters and gym staff to plan, construct, and test new climbing routes or boulder problems. You’ll spend time physically setting holds on climbing walls, ensuring routes are both engaging and suitable for a variety of skill levels, and addressing maintenance or reset schedules. The job combines creative problem-solving with hands-on work, and often includes regular feedback sessions or forerunning climbs to check for safety and flow. You’ll also interact with coaching staff and climbers, incorporating their feedback to improve route quality and the overall gym experience.

What is a Route Setter Climbing job?

A Route Setter in climbing is responsible for designing and constructing climbing routes on indoor climbing walls. They arrange holds and features to create problems and challenges that cater to various skill levels. Their job requires creativity, physical strength, and knowledge of climbing techniques to ensure routes are engaging and safe. Route Setters also test and adjust routes, maintain climbing holds, and collaborate with gym staff to enhance the climbing experience.

What cities are hiring for Route Setter Climbing jobs? Cities with the most Route Setter Climbing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Route Setter Climbing jobs? The most popular types of Route Setter Climbing jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Route Setter Climbing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Route Setter Climbing jobs are:
Route Setter Climbing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Route Setter Climbing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,201 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Mass Posting - Senior Route Setter

Mass Posting - Senior Route Setter

Central Rock Gym

Stoneham, MA • On-site

$37K - $45K/yr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Title: Senior Route Setter
Reports to: Head Route Setter
Pay Range: 2 - 3 years of experience - $37,440 - $45,740/annually
3 - 4 years of experience - $39,520 - $47,820/annually
4+ years of expereience - $41,600 - $51,980/annually
Locations: Cambridge, Fenway, Framingham, Harvard Square, North Station, Randolph, Stoneham, Watertown
Please Note: We are always excited to connect with talented individuals interested in joining our team. While we may not currently have an immediate opening for this specific role at this location, we are actively building a pipeline of qualified candidates for upcoming opportunities. Applicants may be considered for future openings as business needs evolve.
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 Senior Route Setter is a highly skilled member of the setting team who bridges the gap between the Head and Assistant Setters. They take a lead role in maintaining the consistency, safety, and quality of routes and boulders, while supporting daily operations, mentoring other setters, and ensuring an efficient and professional work environment.
Responsibilities
  • Lead or co-lead setting days and forerunning sessions
  • Set and forerun routes up to 5.13a and boulders up to V8
  • Ensure quality, consistency, and grading accuracy across all climbs
  • Provide mentorship and feedback to Assistant and Apprentice Setters
  • Support rotation planning, scheduling, and workload organization
  • Maintain a safe and efficient work zone (including hardware and hold management)
  • Communicate effectively with the Head Setter and management on daily priorities
  • Assist with competitions and special events as a senior team representative
  • Follow all CRG safety protocols and model professional conduct
Requirements
  • Flexible schedule with early morning and occasional weekend availability
  • 4+ years of professional route setting experience
  • Ability to set routes up to 5.13a and boulders up to V8
  • PRS 2, WAH 1 required, USAC Level 2+ certification preferred
  • Strong understanding of movement, risk management, and member experience
  • Comfortable working at heights of 40+ feet on ropes, ladders, and lifts
  • Skilled with power tools (impact drivers, angle grinders, etc.)
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Strong leadership, communication, and attention to detail
  • Friendly, approachable, and team-focused personality

Apply