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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

The Program Director is responsible for but not limited to: managing program operation, development and growth, participant experience and satisfaction, member and staff retention and safety, staff ...

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Outdoor Program Director information

See Indiana salary details

$16.4K

$52.7K

$119.5K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Indiana is $52,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,559.00 and $55,308.00 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 Indiana? The most popular types of Outdoor Program jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Program Director jobs in Indiana? For Outdoor Program Director jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,706 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Program Director

Program Director

YMCA

Crown Point, IN • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,979 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

494th of 694 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Bring the energy! Lead gymnastics, dance, cheer & ninja while supporting sports as well.
Job Description
Pay starting at $21.00 per hour and up based on experience
POSITION SUMMARY: This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Program Director is responsible for but not limited to: managing program operation, development and growth, participant experience and satisfaction, member and staff retention and safety, staff supervision, onboarding, training, and coaching. As a Youth Experience Director at the Y, you lead an environment that is inviting and serves all.
Qualifications
  • Associate's degree in related field or equivalent is preferred.
  • Minimum 2 years related experience required.
  • Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Able to work independently and with minimal supervision. Organized and detail oriented.
  • Adept computer skills in Office 365.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours including evenings, weekend, and holidays.
  • Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations.

Essential Functions
  • Directs and supervises program activities to meet the needs of the community and fulfill YMCA objectives.
  • Establishes new program activities and expands programs within the community in accordance with strategic and operating plans.
  • Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with community organizations.
  • Recruits, hires, trains, develops, schedules and directs personnel and volunteers as needed. Reviews and evaluates staff performance.
  • Develops strategies to motivate staff and achieve goals. Ensures records of staff certifications are current and complete.
  • Conducts and ensures proper maintenance of relative program equipment. Secures and schedules program facilities.
  • Provides customer-obsessed service to all team members, members, and program participants.
  • Develop committed relationships. Share knowledge of programs, events and resources with members and participants throughout the facility and within the community when representing the YMCA.
  • Conducts and schedules program classes.
  • Assists in the marketing and distribution of program information.
  • Develops and monitors program budget to meet fiscal objectives.
  • Assists in YMCA fundraising activities and special events.
  • Models relationship-building skills (including Listen First) in all interactions. Responds to all member and community inquiries and complaints in a timely manner.
  • Assists with cabinet meetings.
  • Compiles program statistics. Monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of and participation in programs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Ymca Careers
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