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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Outdoor Program Director information

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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outdoor Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Outdoor Education Program Instructor

Fenton, MI • On-site

YMCA of Greater Flint
See more jobs at YMCA of Greater Flintexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description

The Outdoor Education Program Instructor is responsible teaching/leading all activities and programs for groups attending Outdoor Education and Group Adventure Programs. The position will have a direct impact on the quality or programing for all guests of camp. YMCA Camp Copneconic will have a satisfied and growing participant base, quality programs and services, sound financial position and a positive community image. 

General Function: Lead activities for groups attending camp for all Outdoor Education and Group Adventure programs. The instructor will also perform cleaning upon departure of groups


Entry Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent. Desire to work with children in an outdoor setting.


 Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Lead activities for groups attending camp for all Outdoor Education and Group Adventure programs. The instructor will also perform cleaning upon departure of groups 
  • Lead and teach activities as written in the Instructors Guide. 
  • Attend meals and perform duties at the dish window as scheduled. 
  • Host groups as scheduled. 
  • Report equipment and supply needs to the Outdoor Education Program Director. 
  • Clean housing and program facilities & areas after group departures. 
  • Assist in teaching and training Level 1 Instructors in programs as needed. 
  • Report maintenance concerns to Outdoor Education Program Director. 

Child Abuse Prevention:

  •  Adhere to policies related to boundaries with children.
  •  Attend required abuse risk management training.
  •  Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising children.
  •  Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
  •  Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.



Requirements

  • Speak clearly 
  • Speak fluent English 
  • Read & write English 
  • Bend/stoop/twist 
  • Push/pull 
  • Climb/balance on ladders 
  • Use cleaning chemicals 
  • Use pool chemicals 
  • Lift over 50lbs 
  • See clearly 
  • Work in an outdoor setting over 6 hours/day 
  • Work in air-conditioned area 
  • Work in non-air conditioned area 
  • Work outdoors with pollens 
  • Work in sunlight 
  • Work in high humidity 
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, and outside weather conditions. 

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