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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Aquatics Director

Framingham, MA · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

... and programs to include: youth and adult swim classes, aquatic fitness classes, private swim ... This position also manages our Outdoor Center pool operations. This position will play a key role ...

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Outdoor Program Director information

See Massachusetts salary details

$18.8K

$60.3K

$136.8K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Massachusetts is $60,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,838.00 and $63,293.00 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 Massachusetts? The most popular types of Outdoor Program jobs in Massachusetts are:
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Program Director jobs in Massachusetts? For Outdoor Program Director jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:
Outdoor Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,315 per year, or $29 per hour.

Program Director - Hi Rock

Central Connecticut Coast YMCA

Mount Washington, MA • On-site

$1.1K/day

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description
Program Directors directly supervise and effectively lead the unit staff and those programmatic aspects of Resident Camp that are not under the direct supervision of an Area Director. Program Directors provide a safe and nurturing environment for campers and staff and are actively involved with a positive attitude about all camp activities.
Essential Functions:
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  • Actively participate in and lead portions of Administrative Staff Training and All Staff Training
  • Inform the Behavioral Support Specialist and/or Camp Director of any camper or staff issues or concerns
  • Ensure unit staff enforce rules and fulfill all assigned duties
  • Formally evaluate unit staff twice per season and assist with goal-setting and achievement
  • Correct and document situations that endanger emotional or physical safety
  • Plan and oversee camper reports, Coaching Period changes, wake-up calls, meals, flag ceremonies, announcements, Sign-Ons and Sign-On Skits, Opening Campfire, Key Log and Candlelight Ceremonies, Weekend and Evening Programs, emergency medical transportation staffing, and other events
  • Keep the Program Office clean and organized
  • Coordinate with Conference and Training, Area, Day Camp, and Adventure Directors for a smooth season
  • Plan and foster high staff morale
  • Maintain Zen and Tag Call Books and distribute attendance sheets and paperwork on time
  • Approve all lesson plans not overseen by an Area Director and monitor teaching quality
  • Schedule staff assignments, time off, Unit Night Out, Unit On Duty, Changeover Weekends, Lifeguard Schedules, Kapers, Cabin/Unit Activities, and other events
  • Participate in Administrator On Duty and provide unit coverage as assigned
  • Plan rainy day activities in advance
  • Demonstrate and teach values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to campers and staff
  • Follow all camp rules and regulations and enforce them among peers
  • Maintain positive public relations with parents, visitors, and the general public
  • Submit all required paperwork and an End-of-Year Report on time
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
  • At least 21 years old, with a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record
  • Desire and ability to work with and relate to children and peers outdoors
  • Prior camp experience as a program or administrative staff member
  • Ability to create, schedule, organize, and implement daily, weekend, and special programs
  • Good role model with high integrity and adaptability
  • Current First Aid and Adult & Child CPR certifications
  • Ability to communicate effectively, supervise assigned age groups, and provide necessary instructions
  • Ability to observe camper and staff behavior, assess appropriateness, enforce safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply behavior-management techniques
  • Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to assigned activities
  • Physical ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and situations requiring first aid

Apply