Climbing Center Staff

climbing center staff teaching an anchor building workshop to 2 students

Climbing Center Staff Role

Climbing Center staff are the primary facilitators of climbing related programs and services. All roles are part-time with an estimated commitment of 5-10 hours per week. Roles for Open Climb involve regular weekly shifts while others are scheduled on an as-needed basis. All roles have large customer service and risk management components which are vital to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment while providing a fun and exciting experience through climbing. In addition to the Open Climb role, student staff assist with technical skill instruction, special programs/ events (e.g. competitions), private group events, and team building depending on their individual qualifications. Paid training provided.

Ideal applicants are passionate, dependable, safety-minded, good time managers and eager to share the joy of climbing with others. 

During the academic year, most shifts are weekdays between 5pm - 10pm. For Spring/ Summer employment, staff must be available to work evenings on Tuesdays and/ or Thursdays.

Details

Duration: Semester (~15 weeks)

Hours: Part time, flexible schedules averaging 5-10 hours/week. Typical shifts are ~5 hrs
* More hours may be available by stacking roles with other OA or RecWell positions (Bike maintenance, group exercise instructor, IM official, etc)

Compensation: CC Staff wage starts at 3A on the GVSU Wage Rate Schedule. Increases with qualification.

Location: GVSU Allendale Campus (Fieldhouse)

Responsibilities

  • Open and close the climbing facility for regular programming and special events
  • Provide participant support within your level of training (e.g. check-in, belaying, skill checks, emergency response, etc.)
  • Oversee the inventory of rental equipment
  • Uphold industry standards for climbing practices and equipment use
  • Maintain a professional work environment
  • Conduct financial transactions and related accounting tasks
  • Assist with equipment inspections and maintenance
  • Assist with select special events (e.g. competitions and private events)
  • Attend all trainings, meetings, and/ or in-services
  • Other duties as assigned
  • Pending qualification, other responsibilities may include: technical skill instruction, team-building facilitation, route setting, and trip leading

Qualifications

Required

  • Must be a current GVSU student enrolled in at least 6 credits or enrolled in the Fall

Preferred

  • 1 semester of active climbing experience
  • Own personal climbing equipment: harness, shoes & belay device
  • Qualified top-rope belayer*
  • Adult CPR, First aid, AED certification*
  • Climbing Wall Instructor certification*

 

*Expected to obtain upon employment. Paid training provided.



Page last modified October 21, 2025