Role Overview
We are seeking a visionary Head Route Setter to lead our setting department and define the climbing experience at our facility. This is a management-level position responsible for the creative direction, safety standards, and administrative oversight of the setting team. You will be the architect of our gym’s “product,” ensuring that our walls offer a balanced, inclusive, and high-quality experience for everyone from first-time climbers to elite athletes.
Leadership & Management Responsibilities
- Strategic Planning: Develop and maintain a long-term setting schedule (rotation of zones/walls) that keeps the gym feeling fresh and engaging.
- Team Leadership: Hire, train, and mentor a crew of part-time and full-time setters. Manage payroll, scheduling, and performance reviews for the setting department.
- Quality Control: Lead forerunning sessions with a critical eye, ensuring all routes meet our standards for safety, grade consistency, and ergonomic movement.
- Budgeting: Manage the department budget, including the procurement of new holds, hardware, and specialized tools.
- Inventory Management: Oversee the organization of the hold room and implement a rigorous cleaning and maintenance schedule.
Technical & Safety Oversight
- Safety Culture: Enforce strict OSHA and industry-standard work-at-height protocols. Ensure all equipment (lifts, ropes, PPE) is inspected and maintained.
- Wall Maintenance: Oversee T-nut replacement, wall texture repairs, and general facility upkeep related to the climbing surfaces.
- Competition Setting: Lead the design and execution of setting for local “comps,” member events, and seasonal leagues.
Required Qualifications
- Experience: 3–5+ years of professional commercial setting, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or “Assistant Head Setter” capacity.
- Certifications: USAC Level 2 or higher (or equivalent experience) is strongly preferred.
- Technical Proficiency: Mastery of all setting tools, rigging techniques, and aerial lift operation.
- Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to provide constructive, ego-free feedback to a creative team.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to climb at a high level (e.g., V7+ / 5.13-) for forerunning purposes.
- Ability to perform heavy physical labor at height for extended periods.
