Image that illustrates Climbing instructor

Climbing instructor

34 900 kr

Sports trainers and instructors etc.

27 300 - 39 000 kr / month

Women earn 96% of what men do.

Pedagogiskt arbete

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Climbing instructor

Average salary 34 900 kr
Males 35 700 kr
Females 34 200 kr

What does a climbing instructor do? – Tasks and work environment

A climbing instructor is responsible for training, guiding, and supervising individuals and groups engaging in climbing, both indoors and outdoors. Tasks include instructing beginners in basic techniques and safety, coaching more advanced climbers, safety checks of equipment, setting up climbing routes, and environmental risk assessments. The work environment varies greatly and may include climbing gyms, natural rock faces, and adventure parks, requiring flexibility and good physical condition.

Salary development over time

The salary for climbing instructors has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,300 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 34 100 SEK, corresponding to a percentage increase of about 2.4%. In 2024, the average salary reached 34 900 SEK, a further increase of approximately 2.3% compared to the previous year. This trend reflects a growing demand for qualified instructors as climbing's popularity increases, with employers needing to offer higher wages to attract and retain skilled staff. The salary development has been stable, but clear differences between genders and employment types still exist.

Climbing instructor salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 34 900 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, upper secondary education)
  • Highest salary: 39,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, upper secondary education up to 2 years)
  • Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
  • Average male salary: 35 700 SEK
  • Average female salary: 34 200 SEK
  • Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of what men do
  • Regional differences: Variations may occur, but larger cities often have slightly higher wages due to more climbing facilities and higher demand

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a climbing instructor varies but generally requires a combination of practical experience, formal education, and certification. Many employers seek documented climbing experience and completed instructor training from recognized organizations. To work professionally, good knowledge of safety and first aid is also necessary.

  • Formal education: High school education is common, but no specific university degree is required
  • Certifications: Climbing instructor training via the Swedish Climbing Association or equivalent
  • Practical experience: Hands-on experience and supervised trainee periods are often required
  • Prerequisites: Good climbing skills and documented safety and equipment knowledge
  • Online courses: Some theoretical components can be completed remotely
  • Tips for choosing: Select training focusing on safety and leadership

Climbing instructors often work with groups of all ages, which requires excellent pedagogical skills and flexibility. The profession suits those who enjoy inspiring others and handling unexpected situations both outdoors and indoors.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensation

Among the most common benefits for climbing instructors are wellness allowances, subsidized or free access to climbing facilities, and opportunities for further training. Some employers also offer insurance, staff activities, and flexible working hours. Extra compensation may be provided for work during inconvenient hours or special events.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a climbing instructor varies by region and season. In larger cities and established climbing centers, demand for instructors is higher, but so is competition for the most attractive positions. Challenges include physically demanding workdays, responsibility for safety, and the need to stay updated on new methods and equipment. Seasonal fluctuations occur, especially for outdoor instructors. For those combining instructing with other coaching roles, the job market can be more stable.

Tips for aspiring climbing instructors

To succeed as a climbing instructor, a genuine interest in climbing and people is important. Good communication skills facilitate clear instruction and safety routines for participants at various levels. Patience and pedagogical ability are vital, especially when working with beginners or young climbers. Physical endurance and good fitness are required to handle long days and demonstrate techniques repeatedly. Flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions, both indoors and outdoors, are also valuable. Continuously developing your skills and being open to new training opportunities increases employability and job satisfaction.

Key facts about Climbing Instructors

  • Educational level: High school education and certification via the Swedish Climbing Association
  • Work environment: Climbing gyms and outdoor environments, sometimes physically demanding
  • Common employment types: Part-time, hourly, or project-based employment
  • Demand: 434 available jobs according to latest data
  • Special skills: Safety, risk assessment, and pedagogy

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a climbing instructor, opportunities exist to advance to leadership roles such as head coach, training manager, or site manager at climbing facilities. Some choose to specialize in youth climbing, organize competitions, or work in instructor training. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that demand for instructors in sports and outdoor activities is expected to remain stable or grow, especially as climbing becomes increasingly popular as a sport and wellness activity. The profession also offers opportunities to combine with other coaching roles or further education in leadership and pedagogy.

Frequently asked questions about Climbing Instructors

  • What does a Climbing Instructor earn?
    - The average salary is 34 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and employment type.
  • Are special certifications required to work as a climbing instructor?
    - Yes, most employers require certification from organizations such as the Swedish Climbing Association.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn approximately 96% of what men do in the profession.
  • What is the highest and lowest salary for a climbing instructor?
    - The highest salary is 39,000 SEK and the lowest is 27,300 SEK per month, depending on education, experience, and sector.
  • What is the job market like for climbing instructors?
    - The demand is good with 434 available jobs according to recent data.
  • Do you need to be an elite climber to become an instructor?
    - No, but good climbing experience and safety knowledge are required.
  • What personal qualities are important?
    - Pedagogical skills, responsibility, and flexibility are key to success in the profession.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Climbing instructor is 39000 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Private sector with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 36600 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Climbing instructor is 27300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 28000 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 108% 25500 kr 27800 kr
25-34 90% 32100 kr 33000 kr
35-44 92% 37400 kr 37900 kr
45-54 103% 38800 kr 39200 kr
55-64 100% 38300 kr 39100 kr
Snitt 96% 33900 kr 34900 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Climbing instructor has the SSYK code 3422, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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