Assistant Head Setter - Peoria

First Ascent is seeking an Assistant Head Setter for our Peoria location. This person will provide an exemplary experience for all who visit First Ascent through thoughtful route setting. Through their work, the Assistant Head Setter will help foster the continued growth and development of the Peoria climbing community. The Assistant Head Setter’s week is split between setting days, hospitality desk shifts, and dedicated admin time.

This requires someone with exceptional initiative and problem-solving skills, and who is solution-oriented and thrives when challenged. You will receive direction and support from the Head Setter. This is a full-time hourly position with benefits.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work with the Head Routesetter to ensure that the desired boulder density and curve of grades is achieved and maintained at the Peoria facility
• Split the work week between setting days (boulder and rope), hospitality desk shifts, and a dedicated admin day
• Own the weekly setting schedule, including strips, grade and color targets, zone assignments, and wash, bolt, and inspection assignments
• Assist with back office setting admin and setting related marketing responsibilities
• Manage setting sessions as needed and ensure that quality and production are both up to First Ascent standards
• Execute daily and weekly duties of the route setting team and ensure that all standards and safety protocols in place are met during operation
• Assist with the operation of the boulder league and competitions
• Meet with the Head Routesetter on a weekly basis to ensure that all concerns regarding route setting are addressed in a timely manner
• Assist in the development and mentorship of part-time route setting staff
• Provide instructive feedback for part-time route setters under your supervision throughout each stage of the route setting process
• Complete weekly PPE inspection duties and keep setting and facility inspections current and logged
• Assist with facility upkeep as needed
• Assist with Hospitality staff responsibilities as needed

• Full-time, hourly role: $16-$19/hr based on experience
• PTO package. Health, Dental, Vision & Disability Insurance Offered
• Free membership to all First Ascent locations
• Access to pro-deals

• 2+ years of commercial route setting experience preferred
• Adept at setting and fore running climbs in a wide range of styles and terrain; ability to forerun 5.12+ sport climbs and V7 and above boulders preferred
• 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 First Ascent’s work-at-height standards, and enforce these requirements with other route setting staff to mitigate risk in the workplace
• Must possess the ability to thrive in a teamwork based environment
• Must possess exceptional communication, organizational, and computer 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

• Ability to stand and move throughout the facility for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks including bending, reaching, and climbing
• Ability to concentrate through distraction and communicate effectively
• Indoor, climate-controlled environment with moderate to loud noise levels

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.

Since 2015, First Ascent Climbing & Fitness has been sharing our love of climbing, yoga and fitness with everyone that walks through our doors. With 8 gyms in the First Ascent family, we’re excited to keep serving and growing the climbing community, one climber at a time. Learn more about us at