Outdoor Climbing Guide

National Ability Center•Park City, UT

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Outdoor Climbing Guide leads inclusive outdoor rock-climbing experiences for individuals and groups with physical, sensory, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities. The guide provides safe, empowering, and accessible instruction tailored to participants’ abilities, including instruction in climbing techniques, knots, safety procedures, and climbing ethics. The role includes assessing participants’ needs, adapting plans, and setting up, inspecting, and maintaining climbing systems and adaptive equipment. This is a part-time seasonal position from April through October, based in Park City, Utah, and is not eligible for remote work. The guide may also support other Recreation Department programs when not assigned to climbing activities, including indoor climbing, challenge course, cycling, mountain biking, archery, paddle sports, pickleball, and teambuilding. The schedule includes regular weekend and after-hours work and may include occasional overnight work, evenings, weekends, and holidays. The position reports to the Recreation Senior Manager and pays starting at $22.00 per hour, depending on experience.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years of age.
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) certification or equivalent.
Three years of outdoor climbing experience, including both trad and sport climbing.
Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification with First Aid and CPR, or ability to obtain them.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to maintain a Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) physical.
Pass a pre-employment background check.
Be legally authorized to work in the United States; employment visa or immigration-process sponsorship is not available.
Knowledge of a variety of disabilities and ability to communicate effectively and connect with participants and their families.
Ability to provide first aid and emergency response when necessary.
Ability to adapt and use innovative solutions to provide personalized experiences based on individual needs and goals.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Ability to support program needs proactively and with a solution-oriented approach.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong work ethic and ability to handle multiple responsibilities and shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to prioritize work effectively and efficiently under pressure.
Ability and willingness to work productively and collaboratively within a team.
Commitment to a positive, fun, team-oriented working environment while promoting NAC values.
Ability to lift and maneuver equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme weather.
Ability to drive a 15-passenger vehicle.
Willingness and availability to work a non-traditional schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience working with a variety of disabilities.
Knowledge of local climbing areas, access regulations, and seasonal conditions.
Knowledge of adaptive climbing systems and equipment, such as counter-balance systems, mechanical advantage systems, seated harnesses, chest harnesses, and ascenders.

Responsibilities

Facilitate inclusive outdoor climbing experiences for individuals and groups with disabilities at designated locations.
Instruct participants in climbing techniques, knots, safety procedures, and climbing ethics.
Adapt climbing instruction to a wide range of physical, sensory, and cognitive needs.
Set up, inspect, and maintain climbing systems, including adaptive rigging, anchors, ropes, belay devices, and adaptive gear.
Conduct pre-trip and pre-lesson assessments and communicate with participants and caregivers to understand individual needs.
Monitor and manage client safety during trips and lessons, adapting plans for weather, group needs, or hazards.
Collaborate with instructors, volunteers, and interns.
Uphold and teach Leave No Trace principles and environmental stewardship.
Build and maintain relationships with participants, families, and community partners; address participant concerns and support customer satisfaction.
Assist with fundraising and other special events and represent the National Ability Center as an ambassador.
Support other Recreation Department programs when not scheduled for outdoor climbing programs or trips.
Perform other duties as assigned.