Climbing Specialist

Overview

The CLIMBING SPECIALIST will have the responsibility of overseeing and facilitating all rock climbing aspects of Camp Merrie-Woode’s Mountaineering program. This is a full time, seasonal, non-cabin staff position that will work with other adventure staff to lead all climbing trips, ranging from half day to multi-day adventures, and assist on any other adventure programming when otherwise available. Climbing specialists should have a high level of proficiency in outdoor and indoor climbing skills, good risk management, and experience with instruction and working with youth.

Camp Merrie-Woode, located in Western North Carolina, takes campers on rock climbing trips to many great locations in the area including: Looking Glass, Cedar Rock, Table Rock, Panthertown, and CMW’s own private rock face, Old Bald. There will also be some utilization of CMW’s large indoor climbing wall. Participants are youth ages 8-16.

Climbing Specialists live on campus in staff-only housing, but may have the option to commute if they are based locally.

JOB DUTIES:
Essential duties as assigned but not limited to the following –

Instruction:
– Lead and instruct all rock climbing aspects of the Merrie-Woode Mountaineering program!
– Organize and instruct rock climbing curriculum & coach campers in the development of their skills
– Teach and/or assist all other Mountaineering programs, including high and ropes courses, backpacking trips, caving trips, and skills classes
– Assist in training other Mountaineering instructors in rock climbing skills through occasional staff workshops

Trip Planning/Clean up:
– Be involved in trip prep, including packing out of gear and food
– Make decisions on where climbing trips take place, with a high degree of autonomy
– Trips range from 1/2 day to 3 days in length
– Complete any relevant paperwork in a timely fashion
– At the completion of trips, participate in any related clean-up

Risk Management:
– Respond to and assist with any occasions/emergencies requiring first aid
– Work with a high ability to assess and respond to risk
– Understand and promote the proper use and care of gear and equipment

DATES for SUMMER 2025*:
Wilderness Advanced First Aid (Optional): May 16 – 19
Boating/Mountaineering Orientation: May 20 – 25
All Staff Orientation: May 26 – 31
June Session: June 1 – 21
Main Session: June 23 – July 27
August Session: July 29 – August 8

*Part-time availability/blackout dates may be considered, dependent on experience.

BENEFITS:
– Live-in Rate: $500-800/week
– Commuter Rate: $125-175/day
*Pay is negotiable and dependent on experience
– Housing, meals, and laundry provided for all staff
– Reimbursement opportunities for any related certifications

PERKS:
– Access to industry Pro Deals
– Availability of CMW’s gear during time off
– Technical skill growth opportunities available
– Access to Camp Merrie-Woode’s private rock face, Old Bald

Tagged as: Instruction and Guiding

Qualifications:

Rock Climbing Specialists must actively hold (or be willing to obtain) these certifications:
- AMGA Single Pitch Instructor or Rock Instructor (Or equivalent documented experience/ability)
- WAFA at minimum, WFR preferred; CPR

- Must have at least 2 years of experience as an instructor, guide, or teacher

Required Skills:

- Possess skills in leading sport climbs of 5.8 or greater
- Possess skills in leading traditional climbs of 5.6 or greater
- Meet the physical demands of all aspects of daily climbing and multi-day climbing trips
- Must possess a high degree of organizational skills and ability to adapt to frequently changing programmatic needs
- Will enjoy working with kids!

Preferred Skills:

- Experience in other program areas (Backpacking, high ropes, caving, etc.)
- Experience coaching youth, particularly in rock climbing
- Leave No Trace Training