Arlington Heights, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
You'll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement. We're committed to ...
Arlington Heights, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
You'll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement. We're committed to ...
Chicago, IL · Remote
You'll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement. We're committed to ...
Chicago, IL · Remote
You'll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement. We're committed to ...
Chicago, IL · Remote
$19.50 - $21.50/hr
You'll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement. We're committed to ...
Chicago, IL · Remote
$19.50 - $21.50/hr
You'll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement. We're committed to ...
$13.12 - $14.75
9% of jobs
$15.78 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.75 - $16.37
24% of jobs
The median wage is $17.69 / hr.
$16.37 - $17.99
20% of jobs
$17.99 - $19.61
15% of jobs
$19.61 - $21.23
5% of jobs
$21.57 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$21.23 - $22.85
6% of jobs
$22.85 - $24.47
5% of jobs
$24.47 - $26.09
6% of jobs
$26.09 - $27.71
3% of jobs
$27.71 - $29.33
3% of jobs
$29.33 - $30.95
2% of jobs
$13
$19
$30
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.
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.
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.
The most popular types of Route Setter jobs in Chicago, IL are:
For Route Setter jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
The top searched job categories for Route Setter jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Arlington Heights, IL • On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Part-time
Re-posted 11 days ago
First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and communities. We are looking to grow our Routesetting team with proactive, friendly, and psyched individuals who will help us continually get better at what we do as we discover how to best serve our members and guests.
ROLE SUMMARYAs a Routesetter at First Ascent, you play a critical role in creating engaging, thoughtful, and inspiring climbing experiences for climbers of all abilities. You’ll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement.
We’re committed to building a diverse routesetting team and encourage individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, strengths, and perspectives to apply. Previous routesetting experience is preferred — we value a strong work ethic, openness to feedback, and enthusiasm for learning.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Set routes or boulder problems at productivity, quality, and safety standards set by the Head Setter
Collaborate with the routesetting team to meet wall turnover schedules and grade distribution goals
Forerun routes and make adjustments to improve movement quality, safety, and accessibility
Assist with routesetting-related tasks such as hold stripping and washing, wall maintenance, and workspace organization
Work at height using ladders and other equipment while following all routesetting and risk-management protocols
Follow and help uphold FA’s routesetting and work-at-height safety practices
Receive and incorporate constructive feedback with a growth-oriented mindset
Conduct yourself with professionalism, respect, and a collaborative attitude
Pitch in on other tasks as needed to support gym operations and team success
JOB DETAILS
Hourly, part-time position (approximately 16–30 hours per week)
Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Occasional evenings or weekends may be required for competitions or special events
Starting hourly pay based on experience, with a range of $15.50 to $19.50 per hour
Ongoing training and professional development opportunities, including risk-management training
Free membership to all First Ascent locations
Access to industry pro deals
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
2+ years of climbing experience
Ability to climb 5.11 on lead and V3 bouldering
Lead climbing experience preferred
2-3 years of setting experience
Strong work ethic with the ability to work independently and as part of a small team
Comfort working in a fast-paced, highly variable environment
Enthusiasm for learning, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive team culture
Commitment to safety, communication, and continuous improvement
Love of climbing and excitement about shaping others’ climbing experiences
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ENVIRONMENT
Ability to lift 50 lbs. or more and perform strenuous physical labor regularly
Ability to work at height and on ladders
Ability to stand, reach, bend, climb, and move throughout the facility for extended periods
Indoor, climate-controlled environment with moderate to loud noise levels
Ability to focus and communicate effectively amid distractions
EEO STATEMENT
First Ascent is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. First Ascent does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, protective order status, military status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, ancestry, pregnancy or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. First Ascent prohibits harassment of any individual on any of the protected characteristics listed above.
ABOUT FIRST ASCENT CLIMBING & FITNESS
Since 2015, First Ascent Climbing & Fitness has been sharing our love of climbing, yoga and fitness with everyone that walks through our doors. With 7 gyms in the First Ascent family, we’re excited to keep serving and growing the climbing community, one climber at a time.
Learn more about us at faclimbing.com/about.
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Biotechnology research and development
1 - 10 Employees
Beaverton, OR, US
2018