University Recreation

Position Summary: Climbing Gym Operataions staff's primary responsibility is to provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for all users of the wall.  Outdoor Programs places emphasis on educating users on safe and effective climbing practices.  Staff strive to provide an atmosphere and environment that welcomes all climbers: beginner to expert.  Outdoor Programs seeks staff who possess at least a basic level of knowledge in climbing equipment and technique as well as those who exhibit an outgoing and friendly personality with a commitment to learning and teaching. Routine cleaning and disinfecting procedures will be conducted regularly. 

Duties include but are not limited to:

• General maintenance of the facility including general organization and inspection of equipment, inventory, and cleaning.
• Complete Opening and Closing procedures and inspections.
• Monitor the use of the Wall ensuring that all patrons adhere to policies, procedures, and safety guidelines.
• Be properly equipped to provide a belay and perform a rescue at all times while on duty. (includes wearing a harness and having immediately accessible 2 carabiners, GriGri, prussic/ascender, double length runner).
• Promote a safe and equitable environment for all participants.
• Complete Near Miss/Incident Reports as necessary.
• Contact a Facility Supervisor in a timely fashion for emergency situations.
• Maintain supervision ratio of 1:15. Take care of personal business before each shift and do not leave the climbing wall area while on duty if doing so interferes with the supervision ratio.
• Maintain a “big picture” perspective while working with individual climbers.
• Be on time with arriving and departing from your scheduled shift unless you have coordinated a sub who is working in your place.
• Be able to complete tasks efficiently and without close supervision.
• Facilitate Belay Clinics or Challenges (as approved).
• Deep cleaning of all equipment throughout shifts worked and especially at specified designated cleaning times.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications include:

• Demonstrate proper belay technique with a GriGri and ability to recognize and correct improper belay technique
• Ability to climb routes with a rating of 5.7 or greater
• Ability to properly put on a harness and tie a Figure 8 Follow Through

Condition of Employment:

• Attendance at Staff Training and Staff In-services
• Available to work up to seven days per week and have flexibility for morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend shifts.
• Ability to complete Outdoor Programs Climbing Gym Operations staff Competency Checklist prior to first shift
• Outdoor Programs staff should consider their positions with UREC as their first non-academic priority.
• Ability to teach and monitor safe bouldering and top-rope climbing techniques while working towards lead climbing
• Ability to manage risks at the wall including monitoring individuals, small groups, and the “big picture”
• Climbing Gym Operations staff must abide by all University Recreation policies and procedures on and off the clock.

Learning Outcomes and Enhanced Skill Sets: Successful staff will gain the below skills identified as desirable by post-graduation employers (NACE). Need more information? Refer to the National Association of Colleges & Employers website.

• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
• Oral & Written Communication
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Digital Technology
• Professionalism & Strong Work Ethic
• Career Management
• Global & Intercultural Fluency
• Leadership

Salary: $8.00 per hour

To Apply: Applications are available online at urec.appstate.edu or at the Student Recreation Center. Please submit your application and class schedule to the University Recreation Office Manager, Kimberly Anthony, at the Student Recreation Center or via email anthonykr@appstate.edu. You may also apply online via Handshake. For more information, please call (828) 262-2100.