Outdoor Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Are you passionate about youth development, outdoor education, and creating transformative experiences for our youth? Girl Scouts San Diego is seeking an enthusiastic, organized, and experienced Outdoor Program Specialist / Camp Director to lead and support high-quality outdoor programs and seasonal camp experiences that inspire confidence, leadership, and adventure.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic leader who thrives in both program management and camp operations, enjoys working outdoors, and is committed to creating positive experiences for youth, families, volunteers, and staff.

Key Responsibilities:

Year-Round Outdoor Programs

• Collaborate with the Outdoor Program Manager and team to plan, coordinate, implement, and facilitate engaging outdoor programs, activities, and events for youth, volunteers, and community members.
• Ensure all programs align with organizational goals, mission, values, and desired participant outcomes.
• Recruit, interview, train, supervise, and coordinate seasonal staff and volunteers.
• Manage program logistics, including scheduling, equipment, supplies, setup, and breakdown.
• Develop and manage program budgets and resources to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Partner with marketing and community outreach teams to recruit participants and promote outdoor programs.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, Girl Scouts USA standards, ACA guidelines, and applicable health and safety regulations.
• Maintain inventories of outdoor equipment and supplies; coordinate repairs and purchases as needed.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with participants, families, volunteers, staff, vendors, and community partners.
• Evaluate programs regularly and implement improvements based on participant feedback, industry best practices, and organizational goals.
• Facilitate team-building initiatives and challenge course activities, including low ropes, high ropes, climbing walls, and related outdoor experiences as needed.

Seasonal Summer Camp Leadership

• Serve as Camp Director during the summer camp season, overseeing daily operations for assigned day and/or overnight camps.
• Lead and supervise camp staff while fostering a positive, safe, and engaging environment for campers.
• Collaborate on the development of camp curriculum, schedules, staff training, and seasonal programming.
• Partner with Human Resources to recruit, hire, and onboard seasonal camp staff.
• Coordinate camp tours, open houses, and recruitment events to increase participation and community awareness.
• Maintain proactive communication with campers, families, volunteers, and staff regarding camp operations and participant needs.
• Address and resolve concerns related to camper behavior, child development, parent communication, and program delivery.
• Plan, practice, and implement emergency procedures in partnership with outdoor and property teams.
• Coordinate annual inspections, specialty program certifications, and vendor-supported training.
• Maintain records, reports, evaluations, and recommendations for continuous program improvement.

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Education, Youth Development, Counseling, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum age of 25 years (per ACA requirements).
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and reliable transportation.
• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to effectively supervise staff and volunteers while fostering a collaborative team environment.
• Demonstrated knowledge of child and youth development and age-appropriate programming.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to respond calmly and effectively during emergencies.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, professionalism, confidentiality, and youth safety.
• Willingness and ability to live on-site during summer camp operations and occasional program weekends.

Preferred:

• Two or more years of leadership or supervisory experience in organized camping, outdoor education, recreation, or youth-serving organizations.
• Current ACA Camp Director Certification or ability to obtain within three months of hire.
• Knowledge of Girl Scout programming and the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.
• Understanding of ACA accreditation standards and camp operations.
• Current ACCT Level 1 Certification or ability to obtain.
• Lifeguard certification through the American Red Cross.
• Archery certification through USA Archery or National Field Archery Association.
• Experience facilitating challenge courses, ropes courses, climbing walls, or team-building programs.

Work Environment:

• This position works both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, primarily at camp and program properties. The schedule includes evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight stays as needed.
• Summer camp responsibilities require living on-site at an assigned overnight camp property in Julian, California, with additional overnight stays at council properties throughout the year.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact on youth through outdoor adventure, leadership development, and meaningful camp experiences. Join a mission-driven team dedicated to empowering the next generation through confidence-building programs, outdoor exploration, and lifelong memories.

If you are a passionate outdoor leader who enjoys mentoring youth, building teams, and creating exceptional camp experiences, we encourage you to apply.

The salary for this position is $2,704.00 per pay period, paid on a bi-weekly basis.