Mass Posting - Head Route Setter

Central Rock Gym; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 49,920 - 81,200; Full time

Job summary

Central Rock Gym in Worcester, MA is hiring a Head Route Setter to lead the local route setting team. You will ensure quality and safety of all routes and boulders, mentor Assistant Setters, and collaborate with management for the best climbing experience.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years of climbing and route setting experience, strong organizational skills, and certifications like PRS 2 and WAH 2. This role requires flexibility and a friendly personality in a vibrant community environment.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of climbing and route setting experience required.
• Ability to work at heights of 40+ feet and on ropes, ladders, and lifts.
• Self-motivated and team-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the local route setting team.
• Ensure quality and safety of all routes and boulders.
• Conduct safety checks and inspections.

Skills

Climbing experience

Route setting experience

Skills with power tools

Organizational skills

Education

PRS 2 and WAH 2 certifications

USAC 1 certification (preferred)

Job description

Reports to : General Manager / Regional Director of Route Setting

Pay Range: 2+ years of experience in Route Setting - $49,920 - $58,220/annually

2 - 4 years of experience as a Head Setter - $58,240 - $68,620/annually

4+ years of experience as a Head Setter - $68,640 - $81,100/annually

Locations: Worcester, MA

Please Note: We are always excited to connect with talented individuals interested in joining our team. While we may not currently have an immediate opening for this specific role at this location, we are actively building a pipeline of qualified candidates for upcoming opportunities. Applicants may be considered for future openings as business needs evolve.

About Central Rock Gym

Central Rock Gym isn’t just a climbing gym — it’s a community-powered space where confidence is built, limits are challenged, and everyone is welcome. From first-time climbers nervously tying in to seasoned athletes projecting hard routes, CRG is a place where people come to grow — physically, mentally, and socially.

Our gyms are vibrant, high-energy environments that combine world-class climbing with fitness, youth programs, and a strong sense of belonging. What truly sets us apart isn’t just the walls — it’s the people who create the experience every day.

Summary

The Head Route Setter leads the local setting team, overseeing all aspects of route setting operations and maintenance. They ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all routes and boulders, while mentoring Assistant and Apprentice Setters. The Head Setter collaborates closely with management and the Regional Director to deliver the best possible climbing experience for the gym community.

Responsibilities

• Lead, schedule, and supervise the local route setting team
• Ensure consistency, quantity, and quality of all routes and boulder problems
• Forerun and set routes up to 5.13a and problems up to V7
• Coordinate with management on staffing, scheduling, and competitions
• Maintain hold inventory and oversee hold cleaning and wall preparation
• Manage setting zone organization and cleanliness
• Conduct safety checks, inspections, and auto-belay maintenance
• Follow all safety protocols and ensure staff compliance
• Stay up to date on setting trends and industry standards
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Flexible schedule with early morning and afternoon availability
• 2+ years of climbing and route setting experience required
• PRS 2, WAH 2 required, USAC 1 certification preferred
• Friendly, approachable, and energetic personality
• Comfortable working at heights of 40+ feet and on ropes, ladders, and lifts
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
• Skilled with power tools (impact drivers, angle grinders, etc.)
• Highly organized with excellent attention to detail
• Self-motivated, independent, and team-oriented