Head Route Setter
Rock Shop is seeking an experienced route setter to lead our setting team. The head setter is a leadership role requiring creativity, consistent communication, commitment to the customer experience, and team management skills. Opened in early 2021, Rock Shop is the Tri-Cities’ only bouldering gym, with 4,500 sq ft. of bouldering.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Leadership and Team Management
- Oversee the route setting program, ensuring alignment with Rock Shop’s standards for quality, grading consistency, and customer experience.
- Hire, train, and mentor a small team of route setters, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Provide ongoing training to team members, focusing on route setting skill development and safety protocols.
- Maintain open communication with the General Manager and other staff to meet the facility’s needs.
Administrative Duties
- Plan, schedule, and manage regular route setting activities, including stripping holds, washing holds, and route setting.
- Work with ownership to manage the route setting budget, including hold orders, tools, and supplies.
- Ensure compliance with Rock Shop and industry safety standards and policies for work-at-height practices.
- Coordinate with the General Manager to implement feedback and adjust routes to accommodate events, competitions, etc.
- Participate in facility meetings, contributing to strategic planning.
Facility Management
- Organize and maintain route setting inventory, workspaces, and equipment.
- Perform maintenance tasks, including wall cleaning, t-nut replacement, and addressing member-reported issues such as spinners or damaged holds.
- Ensuring a safe work area – rope off setting area, ensuring appropriate PPE is
worn, i.e. safety glasses, ear protection, etc. - Support the overall facility’s maintenance needs and coordinate with the General Manager on projects affecting gym operations.
Experience, Skills, and Qualifications
- Minimum of three years of commercial route setting experience.
- Proven management experience in route setting.
- Ability to set and forerun boulders up to v8.
- Strong communication and leadership skills to execute Rock Shop’s vision and standards.
Physical Demands
- Comfortable working at height and moving up and down climbing walls.
- Ability to carry and use the required mechanical hardware – e.g. an Impact driver.
- Able to lift, carry, and move up to 50lbs regularly.
- Comfortable working in a dynamic work environment.
Compensation, Benefits, and Perks:
- Full Time hourly pay (dependent on experience)
- Paid time off and paid sick leave
- Professional development and training
- Pro-deal discounts
- Gym membership
- Friends and family benefits
