First Ascent is seeking a Head Setter in Peoria, IL. This person will be working in a dual role with responsibilities for leading the setting team. First Ascent is looking for an individual with terrific communication skills, and exceptional initiative who is solution-oriented, and thrives when challenged. This role will receive direction and support from the Peoria leadership team. This is a full-time salaried position with benefits.  The below responsibilities are subject to change based on the needs of the organization. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with the Gym Manager for your facility on an ongoing basis to ensure that all concerns regarding routesetting there are addressed in a timely manner

• Collaborate with the Gym Manager and other relevant staff to achieve gym and organization wide initiatives and goals

• Collaborate with the Gym Manager and other relevant staff to set and maintain the target density, curve of grades, and turnover interval for all climbs at your facility

• Manage / oversee all routesetting sessions at your gym and ensure that both quality and production are up to First Ascent standards

• Procure and maintain supplies and equipment relevant to routesetting operations or that fall under WaH oversight protocols

• Schedule routesetting activities for staff at your location

• Ensure that all other daily and weekly duties of the routesetting team are executed for your location (hold stripping / washing, wall upkeep, organization of the hold room and setting supplies, etc.)

• Ensure that all First Ascent Work at Height standards and risk-mitigation protocols in place are followed 

• Manage inspection duties for your location as scheduled (execution, logging, and delegation to other staff as required)

• Hire new part-time staff and train and develop them as needed in all relevant tasks (routesetting, work at height, hold washing, inspection, etc.)

• Evaluate and provide mentorship for your team throughout each stage of the routesetting process

REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 3 years of climbing gym experience, including route setting and youth instruction

• Must be adept at setting and forerunning climbs in any given style and on any given terrain

• Ability to lift heavy loads (50 lbs.) and complete strenuous physical labor on a daily basis

• Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced and variable environment

• Must adhere to safe route setting and work-at-height practices, and enforce these requirements with other routesetting staff to maintain a safe workplace

• Must possess the ability to thrive in a teamwork-based environment

• Must be able to take constructive feedback well and to transform it into lasting positive changes

• Must possess exceptional communication and organizational skills. Must have an enthusiasm for sharing knowledge, and love climbing and fitness

• A positive attitude, flexible working style, and creative problem-solving skills are required

• Must represent First Ascent in a professional manner and be an exceptional ambassador of climbing

• Prior management experience will be strongly considered but is not required

• USAC Routesetting certification levels and prior competition routesetting experience will be considered but are not required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Exceptional communication and creative problem-solving skills

• Friendly demeanor, positive attitude and adaptability to various personality types Flexible working style and ability to multi-task, set priorities and manage time effectively

• Enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and love of climbing and fitness

• Demonstrated knowledge of climbing equipment and proper belay technique

• Ability to forerun the most difficult routes and boulders for our community

PERKS & BENEFITS:

• Base salary will be determined based on experience. 

• Annual bonus tied to individual and company-wide performance

• Generous PTO packageHealth, Dental, Vision & Disability Insurance Offered

• 401(k) Plan Offered

• Free membership to all First Ascent locations

• Access to pro-deals

• Some weekends or nights may be required based on competitions and events

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Predominantly in a climate controlled indoor environment
• Noise level ranges from moderate to loud
• Employee must be able to concentrate through distraction and communicate effectively

EEO STATEMENT:

First Ascent is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. First Ascent does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, protective order status, military status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, ancestry, pregnancy or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. First Ascent prohibits harassment of any individual on any of the protected characteristics listed above.