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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

... Outdoor Track Coach - Winter Division/Department Athletics STIPEND $5,681 CLOSING DATE October 25 ... Evaluates assistant coaches and assigned program and submits written reports to the Director at the ...

... Outdoor Track Coach - Winter Division/Department Athletics STIPEND $5,681 CLOSING DATE October 25 ... Evaluates assistant coaches and assigned program and submits written reports to the Director at the ...

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Outdoor Program Director information

See Connecticut salary details

$17.6K

$56.4K

$128K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Connecticut is $56,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,140.00 and $59,212.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Outdoor Program jobs in Connecticut?

The most popular types of Outdoor Program jobs in Connecticut are:

What job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Connecticut are:

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs?

Cities in Connecticut with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,426 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Vice President of Family and Youth Development

New Canaan Community YMCA, Inc.

New Canaan, CT โ€ข On-site

$110 - $165/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

The Vice President of Family and Youth Development is a versatile leader with a passion for youth development and dedication to improving family life and connections in our community. Our VP will be an energetic, organized professional, eager to oversee and grow the New Canaan YMCAโ€™s high-quality and innovative programming. As a key member of the New Canaan Yโ€™s management team, and under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the VP of Family and Youth Development has oversight responsibility over four areas of our YMCA: childcare and preschool programming, camp and school age programming, inclusion and support programming, and sports and recreational programming for all ages.Essential Functions:The VP of Family and Youth Development ensures that the New Canaan YMCAโ€™s Youth and Family programming is inviting, engaging, inclusive, and fun! This position oversees the growth and development of programs and events that strengthen our community and change lives.The ideal candidate:Can provide strategic leadership and supervision of high quality, well-attended and financially sustainable Youth and Family programmingHas initiative, is able to lead and inspire teams to build, innovate, test and expand the value and scope of our programsGuides our Directors to develop programs that challenge, interest and meet the developmental needs of participantsLoves camp and outdoor programs and will assure that they operate effectively and offer a high-quality memorable experiences to campersIs knowledgeable of the needs and interests of families and desires to strengthen family connections and provide opportunities for engagement and entertainmentAppreciates the value and necessity of high-quality, nurturing childcare that offers age-appropriate experiences for children to develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills at their own paceHas a passion for and experience developing sports and movement-based programs for all ages, including clinics and day campsIs detail-oriented and understands the vital importance of ensuring the safety of members and our community in all programsIs collaborative and has strong decision-making skillsHas excellent communication skills (written and oral) and interpersonal skillsHas the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, andMeets deadlinesPrincipal Activities:Direct and supervise program Directors to assure programs are in line with the Yโ€™s mission and strategic directionOversee growth, development, and advancement of Directors under supervisionWork closely with other YMCA Directors as neededKnowledge of and adherence to the established budget, financial and business procedures of the YMCAHire, train, and supervise staff and volunteers in assigned areasReview and evaluate performance of direct reportsSet goals and objectives and develop strategies to motivate staff and achieve goalsAttend and report at Board of Directors and Committee meetingsDevelop and maintain effective working relationships within the community, including schools, local government and local Recreation DepartmentAssure compliance with state and local regulations, program standards, and safety proceduresBachelorโ€™s degree (Business, Sports Management, Recreational Management or similar field preferred).Four or more years of program management experience, preferably in a YMCA or other nonprofit agency.Direct service experience with youth and families, experience in a camp or outdoor program preferred.Experience supervising five or more full-time exempt staff.Ability to direct programs through supervision of staff, development and monitoring of budgets, marketing and public relations.YMCA Team Leader or Multi-team/Branch Leader certification preferred.CPR and First Aid certifications may be required.General:Regularly demonstrate behaviors in each of the YMCA Four Core Values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibilityAttend all professional staff meetings to keep informed of all activities at the YMCAAssist in all YMCA activities and special events, as needed, to ensure their successPerform other duties as designated by the supervisor #J-18808-Ljbffr