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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Director Of Sports & Aquatics

Peoria, IL ยท On-site

$43K - $54K/yr

Assists the Properties Team in day-to-day and annual maintenance of the outdoor pools and pool house. * Performs other duties as assigned. Ymca Careers Similar Positions Program Director, Adventure ...

Showing results 21-40

Outdoor Program Director information

See Illinois salary details

$15.4K

$49.3K

$111.9K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Illinois is $49,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,221.00 and $51,771.00 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 Illinois?

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

What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Program Director jobs in Illinois?

For Outdoor Program Director jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,335 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Tri-City / Child Care / Before & After School Site Director / Part Time

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Granite City, IL โ€ข On-site

$40K - $54K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

PURPOSE OF POSITION

Under the general direction of the Program Director, the incumbent is responsible for assisting with the overall program, supervision of children and day-to-day operation of the Y-Club program.He/she relates to the Program Director, Staff Team, state licensing regulators and community resource agencies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

  1. Follow general direction and perform other duties as assigned of by the Y-Club Program Director and/or designee.
  2. Ensure the individual needs of the children are met for proper coordination of the program within the site.
  3. Utilize solid judgment and discretionary skills as well as make independent decisions that will affect the YMCA of Greater St. Louis and its departments.
  4. Maintain positive relationships with many diverse people, including staff, parents, volunteers and program site administration and demonstrate strong public relation skills.
  5. Ensure YMCA policies and guidelines are followed at all times.
  6. Maintain an environment that ensures children's safety and well being.
  7. Model, practice and carry out the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and faith.
  8. Plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities that advance all areas of children's development and learning, including social, emotional, intellectual and physical competence.
  9. Conduct the program in accordance with YMCA goals and principles of developmentally appropriate practices
  10. Model, practice and carryout Membership By Design in all aspects of job performance.
  11. Meet the training requirements set forth by the Association Training Model.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Understands the concepts of mutual respect, caring, honesty, responsibility, and faith in positive communications and interaction with children, parents and staff.
  2. Plan developmentally appropriate activities and experiences.
  3. Guides and assists in development of program content and special events.
  4. Ensures program process meets the "Hand's On, Minds On" approach to learning.
  5. Assists with administrative duties, problem solving and parent/YMCA communications.
  6. Assist in development, training and ongoing educational requirements through orientation, training and continued education opportunities.
  7. Understands the site director's role as that of facilitator vs. instructor.
  8. Ensure open, positive communication and mentoring is provided to all staff on an ongoing basis.
  9. Responsible for all accounts receivables.
  10. Communicate problems, issues or concerns with supervisor.
  11. Posses the ability to relate to children, parents, peers, branch staff, volunteers and community.
  12. Must pass a medical examination including TB test as required by DOHSS and Hep A (if applicable).
  13. Must pass DOHSS child abuse screening, criminal records check and Child Care Worker Registry.
  14. Must read and sign YMCA Child Abuse pamphlet and report any suspected case of child abuse to supervisor.
  15. Must read and sign YMCA Y-Club Informational Manual.
  16. Must ensure and maintain confidentiality of family, children and staff.
  17. Actively participates in all program activities and special events.
  18. Follow all guidelines and procedures established by the YMCA, Department of Health and Senior Services and Accreditation Agencies.
  19. Responsible for ensuring diverse program experiences are provided for children each day.
  20. Understand difference between discipline and punishment.Use positive verbal and non-verbal communication with children to build trusting and stable relationships.
  21. Keep up-to-date records on all children participating in the program.
  22. Must be willing to substitute at any site with flexibility and a positive attitude.
  23. Participate in Branch World Service and Partner with Youth Fundraisers
  24. Teamwork is demonstrated through personal interaction among all staff.
  25. Responsible for insuring the safety of all children.
  26. Know where children are at all times.
  27. Children provided opportunities to build self-help and independence skills.
  28. Ensure all children's individual needs are met with dignity and respect.
  29. Must take care of all hygiene requirements of the children.
  30. Program equipment is cared for properly and checked daily for safety.
  31. Indoor and outdoor space is monitored daily for health and safety concerns.
  32. Report all repairs, incidents, and accidents to the Program Director and/or Executive Director.Reports made on appropriate forms and within required time frame.
  33. Responsible to keep center clean and sanitary to insure health and safety of all children.
  34. Keep a neat and clean appearance, in accordance with the standards set by the YMCA.Staff wear name tags and staff shirts while on duty.
  35. Responsible for all aspects of quality customer service-including greeting parents, handling parent questions and concerns and staying informed of programs.
  36. Serve as a relationship builder for site staff and families enhancing their commitment to the YMCA members and the mission.
  37. Maintain and ensure confidentiality of all participants in the program.
  38. Keeps current on any new program activities or special events to assist and enhance the programs.
  39. Able to interpret YMCA policy and procedures and make independent, sound judgments and decisions, which support the YMCA of Greater St. Louis.
  40. Reinforce and model the Membership By Design at all times.
  41. Be knowledgeable of how to use afire extinguisher and other safety equipment.
The YMCA Welcomes a Diverse Workforce
Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V
Internal candidates must submit Internal Job Posting Application with resume.