Climbing Wall Staff are responsible for building positive, friendly relationships with all YMCA members and guests who use the climbing wall at the YMCA. Climbing Wall Staff will primarily belay individuals using the wall, instruct climbing techniques and manage proper use and upkeep of safety equipment.

KNOW-HOW

Applicants should possess:

• An outgoing personality and willingness to work with members of the YMCA.
• An understanding of climbing and the proper use of the climbing wall, the equipment and monitoring participants’ safety.
• Indoor/Outdoor climbing experience preferred.
• Experience instructing climbing classes preferred.
• Belay Certified (YMCA will conduct Certification for Instructors upon hiring.)
• Must support the mission and values of the YMCA.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Climbing Staff must interact with members and guests utilizing the climbing wall.
• Use positive reinforcement to help climbers overcome their fears and accomplish goals on the climbing wall.
• Instructors should have the ability to encourage members to push their personal comfort zones and physical fitness in a positive way.
• Create a friendly and comforting atmosphere through learning climbers’ names, conversing with members and building relationships.
• Climbing staff will be trained to explain and demonstrate climbing equipment, techniques, bouldering, climbing with harnesses and top roping methods to climbers.
• Supervise members and guests of all ages on the wall to ensure safety procedures and adhere to Stephens Family YMCA policies.
• Promote and have knowledge of all rock wall recreation programs that are offered at the YMCA.
• Responsible for keeping the climbing area clean.
• Responsible for keeping accurate attendance records.
• Responsible for communicating member needs to the Sports Director.
• Responsible for maintaining and controlling the climbing area.
• Communicate well with coworkers and communicating schedule conflicts with Sports Director.
• The nature of the position requires medium physical efforts such as setting up equipment, belaying, climbing in rescue situations, etc.
• Responsible for all other duties deemed necessary by the Sports Director or Climbing Coordinator.

BENEFITS

• Free YMCA membership
• Discount on YMCA programs and merchandise
• 403(b) and 401(a) (upon eligibility)
• Paid time off in conjunction with IL Paid Leave for All Workers Act

ABUSE RISK MANAGEMENT

As a YMCA staff member, you are responsible for ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all members, participants, and colleagues. This includes actively adhering to and promoting the YMCA's abuse risk management policies, which are designed to prevent and address any potential incidents of abuse. You are expected to remain vigilant in recognizing signs of abuse, report any concerns or suspicious behaviors immediately, and participate in required training to stay informed on best practices for safeguarding. Your commitment to these protocols is essential in fostering a trusted, respectful, and secure environment for everyone involved in YMCA programs and services.