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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Rochester, NH (NOW HIRING)

Arborist Climber

Dover, NH

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career with ... Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the ...

Arborist Climber

Dover, NH · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Overview If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career ... Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the ...

Paraprofessional/RBT

Exeter, NH · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

... direct supervision of a certified staff member, to assist certified professional staff with ... programs. - Assists professional staff in the administration and correction of classroom exercises ...

Arborist Climber

Dover, NH · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Arborist Climber If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a ... Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the ...

Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by Bartlett ... Supervising and directing crews while performing tree care services, as directed by the arborist ...

Education Support Professional

Exeter, NH

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

... direct supervision of a certified staff member, to assist certified professional staff with ... program, such as curriculum development. Essential Job Functions - Assists and guides students to ...

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Outdoor Program Director information

See Rochester, NH salary details

$28.9K

$76.5K

$134.1K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Rochester, NH is $76,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,900.00 and $90,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Outdoor Program Director jobs in Rochester, NH look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Rochester, NH are:

$14.50 - $19/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This is a seasonal role from June - August and supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Explorers Leaders lead campers on daily offsite programs that introduce campers to a variety of activities that focus on recreation and outdoor adventure. Explorers I (X1) participants focus on recreation and comradery with programs to state parks, escape rooms, surfing, beaches and more. Explorers II (X2) participants focus on outdoor adventure activities such as hiking, paddling, climbing, and camping. Explorers II programs include leading both onsite and offsite overnights with campers. Explorers Leaders are responsible for the physical and mental wellbeing of campers and peers. Leaders set a positive example for campers and program partners.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Lead daily offsite field trips for campers entering grades 5th - 9th that focus on recreation and outdoor adventure. Examples include escape rooms, state parks, beaches, escape rooms, paintball, hiking, paddling, rock climbing, camping, and more.
  • Provide campers with excellent supervision and exercise strong judgement in all circumstances to ensure high levels of safety and program quality.
  • Model Camp Lincoln's four core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility for campers and program partners.
  • Drive camp mini-buses on all trips providing safe transportation and positive environment throughout.
  • Explorers II programs include one onsite overnight and one offsite overnight camping trip. Leaders are oversee overnight programs to ensure campers safety and wellbeing.
  • Introduce campers to basic skills in outdoor activities such as proper strokes in paddling, setting up tents for camping, and hiking.
  • Maintain strict safety protocol on all trips according to Camp Lincoln's policies and industry standards.
  • Responsible for inspecting all equipment for functionality and safety before each use.
  • Work alongside Specialty Camp Unit Leader and Assistant Camp Director to finalize trip itineraries, plan meals, program equipment, and transportation.
  • Coordinate with Specialty Camp Unit Leader to manage petty cash and payments for vendors.
  • Complete program debrief with campers and Assistant Camp Director at conclusion of programs.
  • Attend required abuse risk management training.
  • Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations. Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Must possess valid driver's license
  • Must have a clean driving record.
  • Lifeguard certification preferred. Certification opportunities provided for successful candidates.
  • Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification preferred. Certification opportunities provided for successful candidates.
  • Prior experience working with children preferred.
  • Familiarity with various camp activities.
  • Patient and reliable.
  • Ability to handle sensitive, confidential information.
  • Organizational and communication skills.
  • Energetic and positive personality.
  • Must be able to complete YMCA required training as scheduled by management.
  • Must maintain updated certifications of the job (CPR and First Aid/AED).
  • Must successfully clear FBI and state criminal background checks.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Ability to push, pull, bend and kneel regularly.
  • Ability to travel and work multiple days/weeks at a time.
  • Ability to work outdoors for entire shift, regardless of weather.


Southern District YMCA is an Equal Opportunities employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. It is the policy of SDYMCA to provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or genetic information.