Sportrock Climbing Centers is hiring a full-time Routesetter to join our experienced and creative setting team. We are seeking passionate individuals who are committed to the craft of routesetting, dedicated to the climbing community, and eager to grow as professionals in an industry-leading environment.
At Sportrock, our routesetters are guided by the core values of ROCK:
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Routesetting – Craft intentional, high-quality routes that challenge and inspire.
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Originality – Embrace creativity in movement and design.
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Community – Foster inclusivity and collaboration inside and outside the gym.
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Knowledge – Pursue continuous improvement and skill development.
Lead Routesetter Responsibilities:
Gym-Specific Setting
o Dedicate a minimum of two days per week to setting routes at your designated gym.
o Focus on monitoring and responding to turnover rates and community feedback.
o Ensure that all routes meet the Sportrock Quality Standards as outlined in the Google Drive.
Admin Day Leadership
o Tasks include organizing the setting schedule, planning upcoming sets, and addressing any gym-specific issues.
o Ensure all necessary preparations are made for the following week’s setting activities.
Boulder Set Leadership
o Oversee boulder setting from start to finish, including stripping, setting, and forerunning.
o Emphasize adherence to the Sportrock Quality Standards.
o Provide guidance and feedback to the setting team throughout the process.
Mentorship and Development
o Support the growth of Sportrock Interns and Apprentices at your gym.
o Work with Head Routesetter and Directors to develop and see through Intern Curriculum
o Aid in the development of in house routesetters and track training progress
o Monitor production levels and development when scheduled with interns and assistant routesetters
o Provide hands-on training and constructive feedback to help them advance through the program.
o Ensure that all trainees are progressing according to the program’s standards.
Position Details:
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Schedule: 4 days/week routesetting + 1 administration/maintenance day every Friday
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Salary: $55,000-65,000/year dependent on experience and qualifications
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Benefits Include:
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401(k) with 3% company match
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Health and Dental Insurance Options
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Paid Time Off (PTO)
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Professional Development Opportunities (Clinics, Certifications, Competitions, and Mentorship)
- 12 Paid holidays per year
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Key Responsibilities:
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Set boulder problems and roped routes in alignment with Sportrock’s quality and safety standards
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Collaborate with the setting team to deliver varied and engaging climbing experiences
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Contribute to the mentorship and training of interns and apprentices
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Attend and contribute to monthly Friday administrative meetings, including route review, planning, and gym upkeep
Qualifications:
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3+ year of commercial routesetting experience preferred
- Involvement with USAC (L2 preferred)
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Ability to set and forerun at a V10/5.13 level or higher
- Great team player
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Strong understanding of modern climbing movement and hold usage
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Excellent communication, leadership, and time management skills
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Passion for growing the climbing community and contributing to Sportrock’s mission
Sportrock is proud to be a leader in the climbing industry for over 30 years, with three unique gyms in the DC metro area. We are also committed to providing inclusive climbing spaces and meaningful career paths for all staff.
Ready to build with us?
Send your resume, a brief cover letter, and any relevant portfolio or media to “matt@sportrock.com“. Let us know why you’re excited to set at Sportrock!
Sportrock Climbing Centers is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
