We are seeking a passionate and experienced Head Coach and Routesetter to join our team at Ruckus Climbing Gym. As Head Coach, this person will lead the training and development of youth athletes, mentor assistant coaches, and ensure practices are safe, structured, and growth-focused. In their routesetting role, they will be responsible for setting and maintaining high-quality boulders and routes throughout the gym, with an emphasis on variety, creativity, and appropriate challenge for climbers of all abilities.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Head Coach
- Guide the overall vision and structure of the youth climbing teams, ensuring each team level has clear goals, consistent coaching, and a supportive environment.
- Build progressive training plans that develop movement skills, strength, strategy, and confidence for climbers at different ages and experience levels.
- Lead practices that balance challenge and encouragement, maintain athlete engagement, and promote safe, thoughtful climbing habits.
- Provide individualized guidance, track development, and help athletes set meaningful goals for both training and competition.
- Prepare athletes for competitions, coordinate logistics, and coach at events throughout the season.
- Recruit, train, and mentor assistant coaches; ensure coaching methods are aligned and consistent across the program.
- Work with route setters and gym leadership to ensure scheduling and program needs are met.
- Maintain open, professional communication with parents and guardians regarding expectations, schedules, and athlete progress.
- Organize tryouts, team meetings, mock competitions, and team-building activities.
- Uphold all safety procedures, teach proper warm‑ups, and respond appropriately to injuries or incidents.
- Manage rosters, attendance, competition registration, and program logistics; participate in planning meetings and contribute to long‑term program development.
Routesetter
- Set boulder problems and rope routes (top rope and lead) across a wide range of grades and styles (V0–V10+, 5.5–5.13+)
- Forerun and evaluate climbs for quality, safety, and progression
- Support regular rotation and re-setting schedules in coordination with the Head Setter
- Keep holds, volumes, and setting areas clean, organized, and well-maintained
- Assist with stripping routes, washing holds, and inspecting bolts/hardware
- Collaborate with gym staff to incorporate member feedback and maintain high setting standards
- Follow all safety procedures when working at height and using tools or equipment
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Prior experience coaching youth athletes in a competitive climbing program.
- Strong understanding of climbing movement, training fundamentals, and safe practices.
- Experience guiding a team, with the ability to give clear direction and constructive feedback.
- Skilled at connecting with youth, families, staff, and members of the community through clear communication and a supportive, approachable demeanor.
- Understanding of USAC rules, formats, and seasonal structure.
- Ability to manage multiple programs, events, schedules, and priorities simultaneously while maintaining high standards.
- Experience creating structured training plans and instructional curricula for youth athletes.
- Top rope & lead belay and climbing experience.
- Comfortable adjusting lessons to meet the needs, goals, and abilities of individual climbers.
- Able to explain concepts clearly, offer guidance in an encouraging way, and adapt communication style to different learners.
- Dependable, punctual, and able to represent the gym’s values while working with class participants.
- CPR/First Aid and SafeSport Certifications (or the ability to acquire them within 60 days of starting).
- USAC L2 Coach Certification (or the ability to acquire it within 60 days of starting).
- Experience preparing athletes for regional or national‑level competitions preferred.
- 2+ years of routesetting experience, including rope setting
- Familiarity with safe use of ladders, impact drivers, and other setting tools
- Comfortable working at height while using appropriate PPE
- Solid understanding of route difficulty, movement design, and climber progression
- Ability to forerun climbs and evaluate grades across a broad range
- Physically capable of lifting 50+ lbs and performing strenuous labor
- Must be comfortable working at heights of 40+ feet and able to work on ropes and ladders
- Working knowledge of anchor systems, fall zone management, and rope inspection
- Routesetting certifications (CWA, USAC, etc.) a plus
HOURS AND SCHEDULE:
- 35-40 hours per week.
- Able to work regular evening and weekend shifts to support team practices and events.
- Willing to travel for competitions and team‑related events throughout the season.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
- Pay commensurate on candidate’s experience (expected range between $18-22 per hour)
- Free Ruckus Membership for you and a member of your household
- Access to industry pro deals and in-gym retail discounts
- Paid time off and company holidays
- Health insurance benefits – 70% paid by Ruckus (if eligible)
To apply, please email your resume to hello@ruckusclimbinggym.com.
