Head Climbing Wall Instructor

Job Details

Job Location: CENTENNIAL, CO

Position Type: Part Time

Salary Range: $18.00 - $23.40 Hourly

Description

SUMMARY

Under the direct supervision of the Athletics Supervisor, the Head Climbing Wall Instructor oversees the safety, service, documentation, and upkeep of the climbing wall area. Responsibilities include facilitating youth and adult climbing programs, leading climbing wall birthday parties, and providing participants of all ages with an enjoyable and educational experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Serve as the lead instructor and on-site expert for climbing wall operations and programming.

Teach and lead climbing classes, including introductory, intermediate, and lead climbing sessions for participants of all skill levels.

Clearly explain and demonstrate proper climbing and belaying techniques, body positioning, movement skills, and route-reading.

Use appropriate climbing terminology when instructing to ensure participants gain a deeper understanding of climbing culture and communication.

Provide a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages skill development, confidence, and community.

Ensure a safe and enjoyable climbing experience by exercising sound judgment and professionalism.

Oversee safety protocols, including equipment inspection, belay tests, and participant orientation.

Maintain safe climbing conditions—verify waivers and consents, fit harnesses properly, and ensure cleanliness and organization of the climbing area.

Assist with route setting, equipment maintenance, and safety inspections in coordination with the Athletics Supervisor.

Train and mentor Climbing Wall Attendants and support staff in proper technique, safety, and customer service standards.

Communicate, explain, and enforce climbing wall safety rules and facility regulations.

Respond promptly to incidents or emergencies following proper reporting and response procedures.

Lead climbing-related events, such as birthday parties, group sessions, or community programs, ensuring a safe and engaging experience.

Foster a positive, respectful, and team-oriented environment that promotes learning and morale.

Adhere to Trails Park and Recreation District dress, appearance, and conduct standards.

Perform other duties as assigned by the Athletics Supervisor.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

Strong interpersonal and leadership skills with the ability to motivate and instruct climbers of all levels.

In-depth understanding of climbing movement, belay techniques, safety systems, and standard climbing terminology.

Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain technical skills in an engaging, easy-to-understand manner.

Ability to remain calm, professional, and decisive in high-stress or emergency situations.

Reliable transportation to arrive on time for work shifts.

Ability to understand, follow, and enforce all facility policies and safety standards.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & ENVIRONMENT

Ability to climb, belay, and move efficiently around the wall and facility.

Frequent standing, reaching, climbing, and kneeling.

Ability to communicate clearly with patrons, managers, and coworkers.

Ability to lift and transport climbing equipment or other objects up to 50 lbs. with assistance.

Visual ability to assess safety conditions and monitor climbers both up close and at a distance.

Ability to handle moderate to high-stress situations while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor.

*The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

2+ years of climbing instruction experience in an indoor or outdoor setting.

Proficient climbing ability with strong knowledge of climbing terminology, techniques, and safety systems (top rope, lead, and bouldering).

Demonstrated ability to teach and communicate proper climbing technique clearly and effectively to participants of varying skill levels.

Customer service oriented with the ability to work positively with diverse populations.

Ability to follow and enforce strict policies and regulations to ensure the safety of participants and staff.

Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification within 90 days of hire.

Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings, mornings, weekends, and holidays.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Certified Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) through the Climbing Wall Association or equivalent certification.

Experience setting routes, managing climbing programs, or supervising climbing staff.

Previous experience leading group instruction, private lessons, or youth climbing programs.

Experience mentoring or training new climbing instructors or attendants.