Upper School Rock Climbing Coach

Upper School Rock Climbing Coach

McLean School (mcleanschool.org), a K-12 co-educational independent school in Potomac, Maryland, seeks applicants for the Upper School Rock Climbing Coach position to begin November 2026.

For more than 70 years, McLean School has helped bright K-12 students realize their full potential by providing a comprehensive college-preparatory program that emphasizes small classes and differentiated instruction. Through our Abilities Model®, we embrace both traditional learners and those with mild-to-moderate learning challenges. We recognize and teach individual strengths, responding to areas of challenge but never defining students by them.

This position reports directly to the Director of Athletics, Coaching, and Mentoring.

Preferred Qualifications 
Preferred candidates will have previous experience coaching, instructing, or supervising rock climbing, preferably with middle or high school-aged students. Candidates should have knowledge of indoor climbing techniques, safety procedures, equipment use, harness fitting, knots, belaying, and risk management. Belay certification or the ability to obtain certification before the season is preferred, along with CPR/AED and First Aid certification. Candidates should also demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills and a commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for climbers of all experience levels.

Essential Duties

• Embrace the Core Values of McLean School and model behaviors consistent with those values


• Plan and lead safe, organized, and engaging rock climbing practices for students of varying skill levels.


• Teach proper climbing techniques, including bouldering, top-rope climbing, belaying, knots, and appropriate use of climbing equipment.


• Ensure student safety by consistently enforcing climbing facility rules, safety procedures, and proper equipment use.


• Provide instruction, encouragement, and individual feedback to help students develop climbing skills, confidence, and physical fitness.


• Supervise students at all practices, competitions, and team activities while maintaining a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment.


• Communicate effectively with student-athletes, families, the Athletic Department, and climbing facility staff regarding schedules, expectations, safety, and team needs.

McLean School is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, family responsibilities, disability, genetic status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. If you need a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please contact Executive Support Manager, Robin Speller.