Rock Climbing Route Setter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the thrill-seeking world of adventure sports, the role of rock climbing route setters is crucial.

As rock climbing continues to gain popularity, the demand for creative and skilled route setters who can design, craft, and ensure the safety of our climbing paths is on the rise.

But let’s unravel the intricacies: What’s truly expected from a rock climbing route setter?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager striving to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the art of rock climbing route setting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable rock climbing route setter job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s climb right into it.

Rock Climbing Route Setter Duties and Responsibilities

Rock Climbing Route Setters are responsible for designing and setting the courses or routes that climbers follow in indoor and outdoor rock climbing facilities.

They combine creativity, physical strength, and an understanding of climbing techniques to create fun, challenging routes for climbers of all skill levels.

Rock Climbing Route Setters have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Design, plan and set climbing routes of varying difficulty levels
• Utilize a variety of holds, volumes, and wall angles to create diverse climbing problems
• Test and adjust routes to ensure they are safe, functional, and appropriately challenging
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of climbing holds, wall surfaces, and equipment
• Coordinate with facility managers to plan routes for competitions or special events
• Stay informed about the latest climbing techniques, equipment, and safety standards
• Provide feedback and guidance to climbers regarding route strategies and techniques
• Manage climbing hold inventory and place orders as needed
• Ensure all safety standards and protocols are strictly followed

 

Rock Climbing Route Setter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced and creative Rock Climbing Route Setter to design and install climbing routes at our facility.

The Route Setter is responsible for creating routes that are not only challenging and fun but also promote safety and cater to climbers of all skill levels.

Our ideal candidates will have a solid understanding of rock climbing techniques, an eye for design, and the physical ability to install and test routes.

The ability to work collaboratively with a team and knowledge of climbing safety procedures is crucial.

Ultimately, the role of the Rock Climbing Route Setter is to create an engaging climbing environment that offers diverse, challenging, and enjoyable climbing experiences to our members.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, design and set climbing routes of varying difficulty levels
• Regularly inspect and maintain climbing routes and holds
• Work as part of a team to develop new and innovative climbing route concepts
• Conduct regular route turnover to ensure fresh and engaging climbing experiences
• Test and adjust routes for safety and quality
• Stay up-to-date with latest trends and best practices in rock climbing route setting
• Ensure all work adheres to industry safety standards

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a rock climbing route setter
• Strong understanding of rock climbing techniques and safety protocols
• Physical fitness and ability to climb and set routes
• Excellent problem-solving and creative skills
• Certification from a recognized climbing organization is a plus
• First aid and CPR certification is preferred

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Free access to climbing facility

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Rock Climbing Route Setter
• Work Environment: Indoor and outdoor rock climbing facility. This role requires physical exertion, including climbing and lifting heavy objects.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Climbing Facility Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $55,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Rock Climbing Route Setter Do?

Rock Climbing Route Setters are professionals who work primarily at indoor climbing gyms or for outdoor climbing expeditions.

Their role is to design and create routes or problems for climbers to solve.

They set the sequences of moves, known as routes or problems, by strategically placing holds and markers on the climbing wall.

These sequences can vary in difficulty depending on the intended audience, ranging from beginners to advanced climbers.

Route Setters need to have a deep understanding of climbing techniques, as well as the physical abilities of different climbers.

They must create routes that are challenging, yet safe and achievable.

They are also responsible for ensuring that the routes they set meet safety standards.

This includes regularly inspecting and maintaining climbing equipment, such as holds and ropes, to ensure they are in good condition and securely fastened.

In addition, Route Setters may also be involved in organizing and setting routes for climbing competitions.

They need to create a variety of problems that test different climbing skills, and adjust the difficulty level based on the competitors’ skills and experience.

Finally, Route Setters often interact with climbers, gathering feedback on the routes they’ve set and making necessary adjustments to improve the climbing experience.

 

Rock Climbing Route Setter Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Rock Climbing Route Setter should have the qualifications and skills that align with your job description, such as:

• Physical fitness and stamina, as setting climbing routes involves a lot of manual labour, heavy lifting and climbing.
• Extensive rock climbing experience, to understand what makes an engaging and challenging route.
• Understanding of climbing equipment and safety procedures to ensure the safety of climbers on their routes.
• Ability to work at heights, as route setters often work at significant heights on climbing walls.
• Creative problem-solving skills to design unique and challenging routes for various skill levels.
• Knowledge of knot tying and climbing holds to set up the climbing route.
• Communication skills to collaborate with other team members and understand feedback from climbers.
• Attention to detail to ensure each hold is secure and the route is set up correctly.

 

Rock Climbing Route Setter Experience Requirements

Entry-level Rock Climbing Route Setters may have 1 to 2 years of climbing experience, often gained through regular practice in climbing gyms or outdoor locations.

These professionals can also gain hands-on experience through part-time roles or volunteer opportunities in climbing facilities.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of route-setting experience often develop their technical skills and creativity in entry-level Route Setter roles.

During this time, they learn about different types of holds, climbing techniques, and how to design routes that are challenging yet suitable for climbers of varying abilities.

Those with more than 3 years of route-setting experience may have additional training in safety procedures, hold placement, and wall maintenance.

They may also be familiar with using route-setting software, and might have started experimenting with setting routes for competitions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have a deep understanding of the principles of route-setting, including complexity, variety, and progression.

They may have some leadership experience, such as training and guiding less experienced route setters, and may be ready for a Head Route Setter or Route Setting Manager position.

Moreover, professional certification from organizations like the Professional Route-Setting Association (PRSA) or the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) could be beneficial and may be required by some climbing facilities.

This certification generally requires a certain level of experience and skill in route-setting, and it indicates that the route setter has met internationally recognized standards.

 

Rock Climbing Route Setter Education and Training Requirements

While there is no formal education requirement to become a Rock Climbing Route Setter, having a high school diploma or equivalent education is often preferred by employers.

Extensive experience in rock climbing is crucial for understanding the technical and safety aspects of the job.

Many aspiring Rock Climbing Route Setters start their career as rock climbing instructors or coaches, gaining practical knowledge and understanding of climbing movements, techniques and safety procedures.

There are also professional courses and certifications offered by organizations like the Professional Climbers’ Instructors Association (PCIA) and USA Climbing, which can enhance a route setter’s credibility and knowledge.

These courses focus on various aspects of route setting, such as creating diverse climbing routes, ensuring climber safety, and understanding the physical and mental challenges faced by climbers.

In addition to climbing experience and technical knowledge, creativity and problem-solving skills are essential to designing engaging and challenging climbing routes.

Employers may also prefer candidates with First Aid and CPR certification, as route setters need to understand and manage risks associated with the sport.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest climbing trends and safety guidelines is crucial for success in this role.

 

Rock Climbing Route Setter Salary Expectations

A Rock Climbing Route Setter can expect to earn an average salary of $30,000 to $40,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary depending on their experience, the complexity of the routes they set, their location, and the employing organization.

 

Rock Climbing Route Setter Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Rock Climbing Route Setter need?

A Rock Climbing Route Setter needs a strong understanding of climbing techniques and movements, along with creativity for setting routes.

They should have a good grasp of safety measures and risk management, and be physically fit to install holds on climbing walls.

Communication and teamwork skills are also crucial as they often work in teams and need to provide clear briefings to climbers.

 

Do Rock Climbing Route Setters need any specific qualifications?

While there isn’t a specific degree required, having a background in rock climbing or physical education could be beneficial.

Relevant certification from organizations such as the USA Climbing Route Setting Clinic or the Professional Climbers International Route Setting course could provide the necessary skills and knowledge.

Also, first aid training is often required due to the nature of the job.

 

What should you look for in a Rock Climbing Route Setter resume?

Look for a strong background in rock climbing, including both indoor and outdoor experience.

Route setting experience or certifications can be a strong asset.

Strength and conditioning, as well as safety certifications, can also be beneficial.

Additionally, experience working in a team and ability to follow safety regulations are crucial.

 

What qualities make a good Rock Climbing Route Setter?

A good Rock Climbing Route Setter should be physically fit, creative, and attentive to detail.

They need to have a deep understanding of climbing techniques, a strong sense of spatial awareness, and the ability to visualize how climbers of different abilities might approach a problem.

They should also have a commitment to safety and be able to communicate effectively with climbers and other team members.

 

What are the physical demands for a Rock Climbing Route Setter?

Rock Climbing Route Setters need to be in good physical condition as the job involves climbing, lifting heavy equipment, using power tools, and maintaining awkward positions for extended periods.

They also need good hand-eye coordination, balance, and flexibility.

Regular exercise and training can help maintain the physical fitness required for the role.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve scaled the heights to unveil the true essence of a rock climbing route setter.

And guess what?

It’s not just about setting up grips and holds.

It’s about sculpting a vertical adventure, one grip at a time.

With our specially designed rock climbing route setter job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your ascent.

But why stop there?

Ascend further with our job description generator. It’s your next route to expertly crafted job listings or perfecting your resume to the summit.

Remember:

Every grip is a part of the bigger climb.

Let’s ascend those heights. Together.

How to Become a Rock Climbing Route Setter (Complete Guide)

The Job Jinx: The Most Hated Careers to Stay Away From

The Unwavering Workforce: Jobs Withstanding Economic Dips

Turning Fun into Funds: High-Paying Jobs That Are Far from Boring

Career Cheer: The Most Enjoyable Jobs That Keep Spirits High