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Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

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Outdoor Program Director information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$30.5K

$80.8K

$141.6K

How much do outdoor program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor program director in Silver Spring, MD is $80,837.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,800.00 and $95,600.00 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 Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Program Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Outdoor Program Director jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Outdoor Program Director job openings:
Outdoor Program Director jobs near you
Team Lead (Northern Virginia/Multiple Locations)

Team Lead (Northern Virginia/Multiple Locations)

CRi

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description
Lead with Purpose! Join CRi as a Team Lead and Empower Lives!
Do you have a passion for leadership and helping others achieve their full potential?
Join CRi and become a pivotal part of transforming the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As a Team Lead, you will guide and mentor Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), while supporting individuals to live meaningful lives, accomplish their dreams, and engage fully in their communities.
Team Lead's Role:
  • Leadership and mentoring:
    • Serve as a team leader, providing leadership and training to DSP I, DSP II, and DSP III employees.
    • Provide skills training for individuals and ensure proper support techniques are implemented.
    • Mentor and support individuals to achieve their personal goals and dreams.
    • Handle sensitive and confidential information with utmost discretions and responsibility.
  • Administrative and Documentation Oversight:
    • Oversee administrative and programmatic documentation (ie: fire drills, evacuation logs, van logs, environmental checklists, vehicle, and program maintenance.
    • Monitor use of communication logs and review program documentation.
    • Support the Program Manager with administrative functions and facilitate/schedule drills.
    • Maintain and manage the program ratio, ensuring at least 50% of time is included in the program ratio.
    • Participate in Individualized Support Plan (ISP) meetings and develop activity calendars.
  • Training and Compliance:
    • Train DSPs and provide observations of meal and medication administration.
    • Provide training in safe transfer and lifting of individuals, and ensuring that protocols are met.
    • Complete program orientation for new DSPs and maintain proficiency in computer skills.
    • Attend mandatory and additional agency training sessions to enhance professional development.
  • Direct Care and Advocacy:
    • Provide care to individuals as identified in their Person-Centered Plan (PCP).
    • Support individuals during medical appointments, advocate for their needs and obtain necessary information.
    • Employ appropriate support techniques when intervening with individuals to maintain their well-being.
    • Act as a good conduit to family members and guardians.
    • Fifty percent (50%) of time, at minimum, in ratio within the program supporting all activities to ensure smooth shift.
  • Communication and Teamwork:
    • Demonstrate effective communication and writing skills.
    • Work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
    • Express oneself effectively in written reports, including electronic documentation.
  • Additional Responsibilities:
    • Check in monthly medications and maintain program vehicles.
    • Ensure compliance with all DSP certification requirements within 90 days.
    • Aim to train and develop skills to potentially become a Program Manager.
    • Other duties as assigned.

Hourly Compensation: $25.00 to 27.00
Available Locations and Schedules: (40hrs Full Time)
  1. Vienna: Monday-Friday 11a-7p

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications Required:
  • Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Basic knowledge of Person-Centered Plan process.
  • Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Teams and other computer skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • 5 years of hands-on experience working with IDD population.
    • A current CRi employee qualified as a DSP III may qualify for this level based on attainment of skills through a combination of training, attainment of certification(s) or other coursework, and/or demonstration of required skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Human Services or related field.
  • 50% completion of DSP certification.
  • Ability to obtain DSP certifications within 90 days of employment.

Physical Demands:
  • Requires light and/or heavy lifting, repetitive bending, sight, hearing, and ability to move with ease.
  • Must be able to climb, bend, stoop, push, lift, pull, reach, sit, and walk for periods of time.

Working Environment:
  • Indoor and outdoor program site and various community locations.

Supervision Exercised:
  • Not responsible for reporting structure; however, functions as a leader in the program providing mentoring, training, and direction to the DSPs.

CRi is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package for benefits-eligible employees, including: paid training, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, health insurance options, 403(b) retirement fund, life insurance, dental, vision, and EAP!
CRi is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
CRi maintains a drug-free workplace in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
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