Head Setter

Reports to: The Head Routesetter directs the routesetting operations at Planet Rock, delivering safe, dynamic, and progressive climbing experiences for all skill levels and age groups. Key responsibilities include overseeing setting strategy, quality assurance, and execution, as well as supervising the local routesetting team, collaborating with other Planet Rock gyms, and upholding top industry standards for safety and wall maintenance.

General Manager, Managing Director, & President/CEO

Responsibilities + Duties Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop the routesetting team through training, feedback, and performance coaching.
• Create and manage the routesetting schedule to maintain consistency and minimize disruption to members.
• Provide setting assignments to team
• Foster a collaborative, professional, and positive team environment.
• Assist in recruiting, onboarding, and training new routesetters.

Routesetting

• Design and maintain a diverse selection of high-quality routes and boulder problems for all ability levels.
• Ensure a consistent flow of newly set climbs throughout the facility.
• Monitor route quality, movement variety, grading consistency, and member experience.
• Plan seasonal resets and coordinate specialty setting for events, competitions, advanced classes, and youth programs
• Lead setting for local competitions and special events according to the annual competition schedule.

Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure all routesetting follows current industry safety standards and best practices.
• Inspect climbing terrain, anchors, volumes, and hardware during each reset.
• Oversee proper use and maintenance of routesetting equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Identify and address safety concerns promptly.

Wall & Hold Maintenance

• Oversee hold inventory, organization, washing, and replacement.
• Coordinate wall maintenance needs with the Facility Manager.
• Ensure holds, volumes, and hardware remain in excellent condition.

Collaboration

• Work closely with Head Routesetters and routesetting teams at other Planet Rock locations to maintain consistency across the organization.
• Share setting ideas, techniques, and best practices between facilities.
• Coordinate with gym management regarding programming, competitions, member feedback, and facility needs.

Professional Development

• Stay current with industry trends and routesetting techniques.
• Pursue and maintain applicable routesetting certifications when appropriate.
• Encourage continuing education and skill development within the routesetting team.

Qualifications

• Previous climbing and belaying experience preferred
• Problem-solving
• Self-starter
• Strong communication skills
• Weeknights + weekend availability
• Physical requirements include: climbing, belaying, walking and standing during the entire shift, climbing stairs, kneeling, pushing and pulling objects, lifting, and moving heavy objects

Pay + Benefits

• $20—$30 an hour
• Free membership to Planet Rock
• 1 free guest pass per day
• 35% off retail
• 2 weeks PTO (Full-Time)
• Sick Time
• Pro deal qualification, gaining access to additional discounts on gear
• Free coffee