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Route Setter Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

With world-class route setting, expert instruction, and a strong focus on community, Momentum is ... As a Senior Route Setter, you will continue to contribute to the success of Momentum's setting ...

Route qualified opportunities to the appropriate sales executives for further development and closure * Complete daily confirmations, and follow-up communication with outside reps * Research accounts ...

Route qualified opportunities to the appropriate sales executives for further development and closure * Complete daily confirmations, and follow-up communication with outside reps * Research accounts ...

Route Setter information

See Utah salary details

$11

$17

$27

How much do route setter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for route setter in Utah is $17.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Route Setter position, and why are they important?

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 I become a route setter?

To become a route setter, gain experience in climbing and develop an understanding of movement and safety. Many setters start as climbers and learn to design routes, often through on-the-job training or certification programs offered by climbing gyms or organizations. Strong communication skills and knowledge of climbing holds and equipment are also beneficial.

What does a route setter do?

A route setter designs and arranges climbing routes or problems in indoor or outdoor climbing facilities. They select holds, set difficulty levels, and ensure safety standards are met, often using tools like wrenches and following safety guidelines. Strong creativity, knowledge of climbing techniques, and attention to detail are important for this role.

What is a Route Setter job?

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.

Can you make a career out of rock climbing?

A career in rock climbing can be pursued through roles such as route setter, climbing instructor, or guide, which require skills in climbing techniques, safety, and sometimes certifications. Many professionals work in climbing gyms, outdoor guiding companies, or as content creators, with opportunities for advancement based on experience and expertise.

What jobs pay you to hike?

Route setters in outdoor climbing gyms or adventure parks often hike to different locations to set routes or maintain facilities. Additionally, outdoor guides, trail testers, and park rangers may hike regularly as part of their job duties, which can include inspecting trails, maintaining parks, or leading outdoor activities. These roles typically require physical fitness, outdoor skills, and sometimes certifications related to safety or environmental management.

What does a typical day look like for a Route Setter at a climbing gym?

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 job categories do people searching Route Setter jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Route Setter jobs in Utah are:
Infographic showing various Route Setter job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,598 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

About Momentum Indoor Climbing
Momentum Indoor Climbing is a community-driven indoor climbing company with locations across Utah, Texas, and Washington. Founded in Utah, Momentum was created to inspire and empower people through climbing, fitness, and connection. Our gyms bring together people of all backgrounds and experience levels to challenge themselves, build friendships, and grow in a supportive environment. With world-class route setting, expert instruction, and a strong focus on community, Momentum is dedicated to helping every climber reach their full potential.
MOMENTUM INDOOR CLIMBING
SENIOR ROUTE SETTER
At Momentum Indoor Climbing, the Senior Route Setter position recognizes the advanced skills and experience of our most dedicated setters. This role is designed to acknowledge the individual's expertise while maintaining the core responsibilities of a route setter. As a Senior Route Setter, you will continue to contribute to the success of Momentum's setting program and assist in fostering a positive route setting culture. You may also be entrusted with leading the routesetting crew when the Regional Head Route Setter is unavailable.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Essential Responsibilities
  • Set high-quality commercial routes and boulder problems across a range of styles and difficulties.
  • Give and receive constructive feedback throughout the routesetting process to foster continuous improvement.
  • Maintain and organize all setting holds, equipment, and workspaces to ensure safety, efficiency, and cleanliness.
  • Meet setting quotas as determined by the Routesetting Director.
  • Follow company and industry safety protocols, including working on ladders, lifts, and at height on ropes.
  • Strip and wash holds as needed to maintain clean and safe climbing surfaces.
  • Strive for personal growth as a climber by deepening your understanding of movement and technique.
  • Contribute to Momentum's customer service goals by ensuring that all route setting tasks enhance the overall member and guest experience.
  • Maintain a professional, approachable demeanor when interacting with members and guests to support positive community growth.
  • Help create a cohesive, collaborative team environment by encouraging teamwork and offering constructive criticism.
  • Focus on empathy and compromise to resolve challenges in the workplace.
  • Serve as the lead route setter in the absence of the Regional Head Route Setter, ensuring smooth operations and crew management.
  • Leverage industry expertise to support route setting initiatives and implement relevant industry standards and best practices.
  • Assist in refining the route setting workflow across all regions.
  • Provide constructive feedback to the Regional Head Route Setter and Route Setting Director to improve the route setting program.

Leadership
  • Support the Regional Head Route Setter in fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
  • Assist with training junior route setters, sharing knowledge, and helping with the development of route setting skills.
  • Exemplify a high level of professionalism that sets a standard for others to aspire to.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • USAC Level 3 Certification and/or proven experience as a Head Setter in a commercial gym setting.
  • Chiefed a minimum of 3 climbing competitions.
  • Preferred experience regularly managing a route setting crew.
  • Ability to forerun boulder problems at least V8 and routes at least 5.13c.
  • Work effectively in a dynamic team environment and adhere to Momentum's professional and high-quality route setting standards.
  • Possess a strong awareness of safe route setting practices.
  • At least three years prior commercial setting experience.

REQUIREMENTS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Hours and Availability
  • Full-time position, 36-40 hrs/week, the majority of which is spent actively setting.
  • Flexibility to work weekends and nights when applicable - during competitions or otherwise.

Environmental and Physical Demands
  • Able to work in a high-energy, dynamic environment on a regular basis.
  • Comfortable speaking to and engaging with members of the community.
  • Comfortable working at height and moving up and down a climbing wall.
  • Continuously stand and walk on unstable and uneven surfaces for long periods of time.
  • Able to understand and execute industry-approved work-at-height practices to ensure occupational safety.
  • Able to repeatedly lift, move, and carry up to 50 lbs of weight on a regular basis
  • Able to balance, kneel, pull, push, and grasp objects as needed.

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS, AND PERKS
  • Qualified applicants will be compensated depending on experience.
  • Annual reimbursement for climbing shoes.
  • Route Setter Wellness Benefit
  • Paid Professional Development hours and expense reimbursement
  • Participation in Momentum's health insurance and 401k retirement plan.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual and holiday pay options.
  • Free membership to all Momentum climbing facilities.
  • Discounts on Momentum instruction and programs.
  • Access to pro-deals through our outdoor industry partners.