1

Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Outdoor Program Director information

See Missouri salary details

$15.2K

$49K

$111K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Missouri is $48,964.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,964.00 and $51,381.00 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 Missouri? The most popular types of Outdoor Program jobs in Missouri are:
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Program Director jobs in Missouri? For Outdoor Program Director jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,964 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Ozarks - Outdoor Education Assistant Program Director

Sign In / Register - Job Candidate Account

Potosi, MO

Other

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the guidance and supervision of the Outdoor Education Program Director, the Outdoor Education Assistant Program Director will be responsible for the development, implantation, and staffing of Outdoor Education programs to guests of the YMCA of the Ozarks Camp Lakewood while exemplifying the Y values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1) Be the primary contact for Parkway and Wentzville School Districts. Create their service schedules, stay in constant contact with all the leaders, and serve as their liaison while they are on property.

2) Develop new curriculum for the Outdoor Education Department. Research new program ideas and create new lesson plans.

3) Redevelop some of the current Outdoor Education curriculum by creating new activities to enhance the quality of the existing programs.

4) Assist with planning, implementing, and evaluating all of Camp Lakewood group programs and conferences, including Adventure Guides, school groups, teambuilding groups, Scout/youth groups, and all conferences and meetings held at Camp Lakewood.

5) Assist with coordination of group arrangements with Camp Lakewood Dining Hall manager and assist with meal hosting responsibilities during a group's stay. Report dining-hall related problems, concerns or necessary changes to Lakewood Food Service Director.

6) Assist with preparation of program schedules for Lakewood groups' visits.

7) Help run a weekly Program Staff meeting with the Outdoor Education Program Director.

8) Work to ensure safety in all Camp Lakewood Outdoor Education programs and conferences.

9) Establish and maintain relationships with the directors and staff of Parkway and Wentzville School Districts, Adventure Guides, church groups, school groups, and other programs.

10) Assist with recruiting, selecting, training, supervising and evaluating staff and volunteers for the Outdoor Education and Lakewood groups' programs, provide resources necessary to perform assigned tasks at a high level of competence.

11) Assist in training all staff on risk management, utilizing the YMCA of Greater St. Louis' training program and incorporating zero accident attitudes.

12) Assist with the production and distribution of weekly staff schedules during the Lakewood Outdoor Education season.

13) Assist with the enforcement of all staff policies and procedures with subordinate staff.

14) Organize, inventory and distribute Outdoor Education Department program equipment, making sure staff has equipment necessary to operate a safe, efficient and complete program based on the group's prepared program schedule.

15) Follow established guidelines for all purchases, and ensure proper billing information is given to the Outdoor Education Program Director for processing.

16) Contribute to the YMCA of the Ozarks cost containment by properly allocating supplies, and constantly look for ways to save money on supplies, personnel, and daily energy costs.

17) Serve as group host to assigned groups, ensure facilities are prepared and maintained.

18) Maintain positive working relationships with support services departments including group sales, Triangle Y Ranch, maintenance, food service, and housekeeping to provide for the comfort and safety of Camp Lakewood guests.

19) Assist with coordination of all aspects of program-related transportation including schedules, vehicle care, periodic maintenance, and usage tracking.

20) Assist in the development and implementation of procedures and actions to increase the satisfaction and learning experience of campers and staff.

21) Respond to guest and group leader questions and concerns in a timely manner.

22) Establish supportive relationships with children and implement developmentally appropriate techniques of behavior management and group management.

23) Maintain visibility and availability to guests for optimal guest satisfaction.

24) Enforce customer service and proper role modeling by all staff through training, personal example and evaluation.

25) Treat guests with respect and consideration, regardless of their sex, race, religion, family background or ability.

26) Perform other job-related tasks as assigned.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y's values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person's point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgements, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks and plans work. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology. Has a basic understanding of the following: General Office Equipment, Computer Skills, Telephone Skills, Analytical Skills, Knowledge of Word & Excel, Newsletter Generation, Event Planning.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Understands the daily impact of the following and represents them in a positive manner: Action Oriented, Business Understanding & Vision, Customer Oriented, Delegation, Emotional Stability, Establishing Priorities, Flexibility, Independence & Decision Making, Innovation & Creativity, Integrity & Trust, Interpersonal Skills, Leadership, Listening Skills, Oral Communication Skills, Organization & Planning, Peer Relationships & Teamwork, Persuasion & Negotiation, Problem Solving, Results Oriented, Self-Starter, Stress Management, Valuing Diversity, Written Communication.