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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OCC Boy Scouts

Program Director

Orange, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Program Director Reports to: Camping Director Status: Full Time, Exempt Benefits: Health insurance ... Outdoor Education Center, and Oso Lake Scout Camp. They are primarily responsible for the ...

Westcare

Program Director

North Highlands, CA · On-site

$80K - $86K/yr

Provide clinical and administrative leadership and supervision to the program. * Function as a ... Having an adequate range of body motion and mobility to work in an office, residential, or outdoor ...

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All JobsOutdoor Program JobsOutdoor Program Director JobsOutdoor Program Director Jobs in California

Outdoor Program Director information

See California salary details

$17.1K

$55.1K

$124.9K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in California is $55,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,189.00 and $57,774.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by an Outdoor Program Director, and how can they be addressed?

Outdoor Program Directors often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, risk management, and coordinating logistics for diverse groups. To address these, successful directors develop strong contingency plans, maintain up-to-date safety certifications, and foster clear communication with both staff and participants. Building a flexible, well-trained team and staying informed about best practices in outdoor education are also key strategies. These approaches help ensure programs run smoothly and safely, even when unexpected situations arise.

What is the difference between Outdoor Program Director vs Outdoor Education Coordinator?

AspectOutdoor Program DirectorOutdoor Education Coordinator
CertificationsWilderness First Responder, CPR, relevant outdoor certificationsWilderness First Responder, CPR, outdoor education certifications
Work EnvironmentLeading outdoor programs, managing staff, overseeing activitiesPlanning and delivering outdoor educational programs, supporting participants
Employer & IndustryRecreational organizations, camps, outdoor adventure companiesSchools, educational nonprofits, outdoor learning centers

The Outdoor Program Director typically manages outdoor activities and staff, focusing on program logistics and safety. The Outdoor Education Coordinator concentrates on delivering educational content and supporting participants' learning experiences. Both roles require outdoor certifications and work in outdoor or educational settings, but their primary responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Outdoor Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Program Director, you need strong leadership, program management, and risk assessment skills, typically supported by a degree in recreation, outdoor education, or a related field. Proficiency with safety protocols, outdoor activity equipment, and certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR is commonly required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for engaging participants and managing diverse teams. These skills ensure safe, impactful, and successful outdoor experiences while effectively handling the dynamic nature of outdoor programming.

What does an Outdoor Program Director do?

An Outdoor Program Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing outdoor recreation programs and activities, such as camps, adventure trips, and educational workshops. They manage staff, ensure safety protocols are followed, and develop engaging programs to meet participant needs. Additionally, they often handle budgeting, marketing, and partnership-building to grow their programs and reach more participants.
What are the most commonly searched types of Outdoor Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Outdoor Program jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Program Director jobs in California? For Outdoor Program Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs? Cities in California with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:
Outdoor Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,055 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Outdoor Program Specialist/Camp Director

Outdoor Program Specialist/Camp Director

Girl Scouts San Diego

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

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.

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