Director of Climbing Education

Director of Education – CityROCK Climbing Gym

Job Summary

The Director of Education is responsible for helping CityROCK’s climbers of all ages go more up by developing, implementing, and continually improving all educational and climbing‑related fitness programs. This role oversees curriculum design, risk mitigation instruction, staff performance, customer experience, and departmental profitability across both Youth and Adult Education. The Director manages coaches, program leads, and independent fitness contractors, ensuring high‑quality instruction and a safe, welcoming, progressive learning environment.

This role will be a key driver in launching and shaping the programs department at CityROCK’s second location, opening in the latter half of 2027.

Reports to: General Manager/COO

Typical work week: 38–50 hours

Key Responsibilities

Risk Mitigation

1. Teach all participants to take responsibility for their own well‑being.
2. Ensure supervision ratios are appropriate for age, experience, and group size.
3. Create and enforce guidelines for all programs, classes, and climbing areas.
4. Ensure teaching environments are free from additional hazards.
5. Maintain and inspect equipment according to industry standards.
6. Ensure staff respond appropriately to emergencies.

Staff Engagement

1. Hire staff members who positively contribute to the team.
2. Train staff effectively for their positions.
3. Practice and model professionalism.
4. Oversee staff performance and ensure responsibilities are met.
5. Give and receive timely feedback.
6. Keep staff involved, engaged, and supported.
7. Minimize sources of frustration for staff.
8. Collaborate with and support other departments.

Customer Loyalty

1. Create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for all climbers and guests.
2. Maintain clean, inviting program and fitness environments.
3. Stay informed on teaching methods and climbing‑industry developments.
4. Create and maintain a progressive, research‑based curriculum.
5. Manage program users effectively across systems and departments.
6. Implement programs and classes that encourage repeat participation.
7. Design new programs tailored to customer needs and evolving interests.
8. Maintain open communication with members and guests.
9. Surprise and delight customers through continual improvements.
10. Develop and maintain climbing‑related fitness areas and classes.

Profitability

1. Design and price programs to optimize attendance and profit.
2. Inform customers of offerings through coordinated communication.
3. Ensure RGP is set up correctly for billing, registration, and ease of use.
4. Encourage repeat business through clear next steps and follow‑up systems.
5. Create and maintain the department budget.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications

• College degree or equivalent experience (early childhood development and/or climbing and fitness education preferred).
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and excellent communication skills.
• Highly organized, motivated, and goal‑oriented.
• Experience in staff management and coordination.
• Ability to manage large groups of children and adults.
• Adaptability in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
• Current First Aid and CPR certifications (within 30 days of hire).
• Minimum 3 years of climbing instruction experience for all ages.
• Experience with Rock Gym Pro or similar operations software.
• CWI, AMGA, and/or SPI certification.
• Personal training experience a plus.
• Ability to climb 5.12+/V7 or higher preferred.
• Knowledge of climbing industry trends and instruction methods

Compensation

1. Starting salary of $52,000-$57,500, depending on experience
2. Medical, Dental, Vision benefits available after 60 days, with company contribution
3. 401K program after the first year, with company match
4. 80 hours of vacation annually and paid sick leave