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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Aquatics Director

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$57K - $59K/yr

... Program Director or Vice President of Operations. WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS This position regularly works in office settings, indoor pools, outdoor areas, and recreational environments.

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Outdoor Program Director information

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 Colorado? The most popular types of Outdoor Program jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Program Director jobs in Colorado? For Outdoor Program Director jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:
Outdoor Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Outdoor After School Program Assistant I

Montrose Recreation District

Montrose, CO • On-site

$15.90 - $17.44/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Free Membership to the Community Rec Center after 30 days of hire.
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Flexible schedule

Position Summary 
This position is responsible for leading and assisting enrichment activities including academic assistance, and a focus on outdoor themed arts and crafts, group games, outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, biking, and others. The Program Assistant 1 supports the planning and delivery of engaging, safe, and developmentally appropriate outdoor activities for youth in the after school program. This position works under the supervision of the Outdoor Leader and the Enrichment and Outdoors Coordinator to lead and assist with daily programs such as hiking, nature exploration, team-building games, and environmental education. The Program Assistant 1 helps create a positive and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence, teamwork skills, and a connection to the outdoors.
Key responsibilities include supervising and engaging with youth during activities, assisting with setup and cleanup, maintaining safety and behavior standards, and supporting communication with families and staff. The ideal candidate enjoys working with children in an outdoor setting, demonstrates strong teamwork and communication skills, and models enthusiasm for learning and exploration in nature. In general, the Outdoor Program Assistant 1 should enjoy working and playing outside, introducing new activities and skills to program participants, and fostering an appreciation for outdoor activities among youth participants.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The following are examples of primary duties assigned to this position. Other related duties may be assigned.
  • Leads and assists students to safely and actively participate in a wide variety of enrichment and outdoor activities
  • Exercise authority in problematic situations with children; utilizing guidance and disciplinary procedures as directed by the Site Leader.
  • Promote academic success, good character, citizenship, healthy lifestyles, outdoor activity, and outdoor safety
  • May be trained to perform additional job duties on different days for special events.
  • Plans and facilitates activities for program participants.
  • Participates in staff meetings and training as needed or required.
Position Qualifications 
        Experience: 
  • 16 years of age or older
  • Time spent leading or participating in outdoor activities, preferred
  • One (1) year of experience in elementary education or childcare setting, preferred.
      Certifications:
  • The possession of or ability to obtain CPR/First Aid Certification.
Physical Demands and Work Environment 
  • The Outdoor After School Enrichment Program is housed at Montrose County School District’s Outer Range School and will utilize local park and outdoor areas.
  • Program hours are from 3 pm-6:00 pm, Monday through Thursday.
  • Primary functions may require maintaining the physical condition necessary for walking, standing, or sitting for prolonged periods. This position will require moderate lifting, and heavy lifting on occasion, and working indoors and in outdoor weather conditions, including rain, snow, heat, and wind. 
Benefits
  • Free Membership to the Community Rec Center after 30 days of hire.