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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Dick's Sporting Goods

Retail Outdoor Lead

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $28.50/hr

As the Outdoor Lead they are responsible for directing workflow andoverseeing the daily operations ... Communicate information to department guides regarding Company initiatives, programs, promotions ...

Dick's Sporting Goods

Retail Outdoor Lead

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $28.50/hr

As the Outdoor Lead they are responsible for directing workflow and overseeing the daily operations ... Communicate information to department guides regarding Company initiatives, programs, promotions ...

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All JobsOutdoor Program JobsOutdoor Program Director JobsOutdoor Program Director Jobs in Elgin, IL

Outdoor Program Director information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$29.2K

$77.3K

$135.4K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Elgin, IL is $77,297.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,400.00 and $91,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:
Outdoor Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Program Director job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,297 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Outdoor Program Specialist

Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana

Vernon Hills, IL • On-site

$24.36/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 hours ago

Job description

Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, (GSCNWI) is an organization that focuses on helping girls build courage, confidence, and character. We pride ourselves on collaboration, communication, and teamwork. If you are looking for an organization with a mission that impacts the hearts and minds of girls in a meaningful way, then look no further. We're committed to being an equitable, trauma-informed, community-based organization serving the needs and interests of girls and their families in the 245 communities we cover. We are the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana.
Looking to work with a mission driven organization? Looking for a role that challenges you? Want your work to add value? Then the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana is the organization for you. The Outdoor Program Specialist role is a position that moves our mission forward and helps change lives.
Position Overview:
Reporting to the Senior Outdoor Program Manager, the Outdoor Program Specialist will facilitate programs for girls and volunteers and will assist with various projects that will benefit the outdoor program experience. They will serve as the Assistant Camp Director for summer overnight camp and be responsible for overseeing weekend troop camping reservations during non-summer camp months.
From September to May, this position is full-time, non-exempt with total hours for on-site and office work not to exceed 37.5 hours per week. Candidates can generally expect to work Wednesday-Sunday, with office hours on weekdays and overnight programming on weekends. This position will require travel to each of the council owned camp properties and frequent overnights on site.
From late May to mid-August, this position will be full-time, exempt and is expected to live on-site at overnight camp, Camp Juniper Knoll in East Troy, WI, and will typically work Sunday-Friday. Room and board are provided while summer camp is in session.
Compensation: $24.36/hour
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Communicate with troop leaders, volunteers, and chaperones regarding program confirmation, schedules, and expectations
  • Develop curriculum for use in outdoor programs that is fun, safe, and promotes the Girl Scout experience
  • Work directly with children ages 5-17 in facilitation of outdoor programming
  • Participate fully in various projects which will promote the outdoor program experience
  • Participate enthusiastically in all aspects of camp life and act as a role model
  • Assist with management and care of program spaces and supplies including equipment maintenance, manage supply inventory, make purchases as needed, and alert the outdoor program manager of any safety or maintenance concerns
  • Be able to move items around in the program areas, such as firewood, canoes, archery and sports equipment. Ability to push, pull, lift, and carry items up to 25 pounds (e.g. firewood, canoes, archery/sports equipment
  • Possess strength and stamina to remain alert, friendly, courteous, and patient for the duration of the staff member's time on the job
  • Other duties as assigned

Experience, Skills, and Qualifications:
  • Must be 21+ years old and posses a high school diploma or GED; a bachelor's degree with concentration in an outdoor education field or equivalent experience is preferred
  • Knowledge of the outdoors and 3+ years' experience working with children in a camp setting or equivalent
  • 2+ years' experience working as a lifeguard preferred
  • Must be able to successfully problem-solve
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Reliable transportation and willingness to travel to all camp locations

Additional Requirements:
  • Must be certified in First Aid, CPR, and obtain their Mandated Reporter training certificate. Training is provided by Girl Scouts GCNWI.
  • Possess (or be willing to obtain) additional certifications in lifeguarding (including waterfront skills), lifeguard instructor, small craft, and archery are strongly preferred. Training may be provided by Girl Scouts GCNWI.
  • Membership with Girl Scouts of the USA, or willingness to become a member with the Girl Scouts of the USA.

Perks and Benefits:
  • 403(b) retirement plan
  • Time off - vacation, sick, personal, and holiday paid time off is available for employees to take care of themselves and show our appreciation.
  • A casual work environment - with a casual dress code and the option to work hybrid, if applicable.

Work Environment:
Candidates should be willing to work in an indoor and outdoor camp setting, which includes working irregular hours with limited or simple equipment, rustic facilities, wildlife and insects; limited technology while at camp, and exposure to sun, rain, and other weather conditions.

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