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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AK ยท On-site

$23/hr

... National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g ... Practical knowledge and/or experience of recreational activities and equipment, rules, and ...

Here, visitors and residents alike enjoy living, working, and playing in a breathtaking outdoor ... Assists with the management and operation of concessions and rentals for the Harry A. Nottingham ...

New

The State Forest system has experienced a significant increase in outdoor recreation over the past few years and is looking for someone to manage this program both internally with state forest staff ...

$15/hr

At least 6 Months experience executing multiple recreation programs. OR * Applicants pursuing a degree in Recreation Management, Outdoor Recreation, or a related field, and in the process of ...

AK

$23/hr

... National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g ... Practical knowledge and/or experience of recreational activities and equipment, rules, and ...

$15/hr

At least 6 Months experience executing multiple recreation programs. OR * Applicants pursuing a degree in Recreation Management, Outdoor Recreation, or a related field, and in the process of ...

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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager information

See salary details

$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do outdoor recreation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor recreation program manager in the United States is $107,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Outdoor Recreation Program Manager vs Outdoor Recreation Specialist?

AspectOutdoor Recreation Program ManagerOutdoor Recreation Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, parks, or related field; certifications like CPR, First AidOften requires similar degrees and certifications, but may have less emphasis on management certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees programs, manages staff, plans activities, and coordinates resourcesConducts outdoor activities, leads groups, and provides instruction or guidance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by parks departments, recreation centers, outdoor adventure companiesCommonly employed in outdoor education, adventure guiding, and community recreation

The main difference is that the Outdoor Recreation Program Manager focuses on overseeing and managing recreation programs, while the Outdoor Recreation Specialist primarily leads and conducts outdoor activities and instruction. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar environments, but the manager role involves more administrative responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, you need expertise in program development, risk management, and outdoor leadership, often backed by a degree in recreation management or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR are typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities help in coordinating teams and ensuring participant safety. These skills ensure the successful delivery of safe, engaging outdoor experiences and efficient program operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Outdoor Recreation Program Managers, and how can they overcome them?

Outdoor Recreation Program Managers often navigate challenges such as unpredictable weather, participant safety, and resource management. They must be adept at contingency planning and risk assessment to ensure activities proceed smoothly and safely. Effective communication and collaboration with staff, volunteers, and external partners are crucial for adapting to last-minute changes and maintaining high-quality experiences. Staying current with industry best practices and fostering a culture of safety and flexibility helps managers overcome these challenges and succeed in their role.

What does an Outdoor Recreation Program Manager do?

An Outdoor Recreation Program Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing outdoor activities and programs, such as hiking, camping, canoeing, or team-building events. They coordinate logistics, manage staff and volunteers, ensure participant safety, and may also handle budgeting and marketing for programs. Their work involves working closely with community organizations, schools, or public agencies to promote outdoor engagement and environmental stewardship. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential for success in this role.
More about Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs? Cities with the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings:
What states have the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Outdoor Recreation Instructor

Colorado Community College System Career Site

Fort Collins, CO โ€ข On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Title: Outdoor Recreation Instructor

Position Type: Instructor

College: Front Range Community College

Division: Academic Affairs

Department: FRCC Sciences

Campus: Larimer Campus

Location: Fort Collins

Salary Range:ย Varies by course. Please see Additional Information below.

Who We Are:

With three campuses along Coloradoโ€™s Front Range, FRCC is the stateโ€™s largest community college. We enroll close to 28,000 students annually from our diverse service area, which offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities.

Each year approximately 5,000 FRCC students transfer to four-year universities and FRCC offers more than 36 career training programs that prepare students for immediate employment and rewarding careers. Last year, more than 5,000 high school students took concurrent enrollment classes with us, earning college credit without having to pay college tuition. And we were recently ranked as one of the โ€œTop Online Collegesโ€ in the country by Newsweek.

One of FRCCโ€™s main goals is to offer educational excellence for everyone. The collegeโ€™s strong commitment to student success means we start by creating an inclusive and equitable environmentโ€”one where both students and employees feel they belong and are supported. FRCCโ€™s focus on diversity, equity and inclusion is woven into the fabric of our college conversations and decision-making processes. We are actively seeking to hire a workforce that reflects the diversity of our student body.

The college is also an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution. For us, becoming an HSI is an intentional commitment to being a college where our Latinx (and other historically marginalized) students thrive.

FRCC employees and leaders work hard to create a culture of collaboration, innovation and pride. Weโ€™re looking to hire people who share these valuesโ€”along with our commitment to student success, equity and excellence.

Job Summary:

As a part-time instructor in the Outdoor Recreation department, you provide instruction in all levels of outdoor recreation, leadership, and recreation management, including certificate and/or transfer levels. You work individually, as well as in collaboration with colleagues, to develop an innovative curriculum which meets the needs of our diverse population of students. Student retention and success are your top priority. You utilize technology and effective teaching strategies to develop studentsโ€™ critical thinking skills.

You may be asked to teach at different times, locations and modalities to meet the needs of the College.

This position requires a strong on-campus presence and may require occasional travel to all three FRCC campuses.

Please note: You need to be a Colorado resident on your first day of employment. Also, Front Range Community College is an E-Verify employer.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • A related associate degree (or relevant current industry license or certification) and 4000 verified occupational/industry hours with seven years.

OR

  • A related Bachelorโ€™s or any Masterโ€™s degree with 18 discipline related credits and 2000 verified occupational/industry hours within seven years.

Related Degree, Credential, and/or Occupational Experience: Tourism, Outdoor Recreation, Recreation Management, Parks and Recreation, demonstrated experience with risk management and leading groups in the back country, 5 years minimum working as a guide.

CTE Credential: This instructor position will be teaching Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses. In addition to the qualifications listed above, the selected candidate must have a current CTE credential or the ability to obtain one within one year to teach. For more information, please see the Colorado Department of Educationโ€™s Career and Technical Education website.

Selection Process:

The selection process for this instructor position will be conducted through a competitive, merit-based evaluation of all qualified applicants. Preliminary screening will be based on the completed application package submitted by the candidate.

This is an open talent pool. Applicants will be contacted based on the needs of the College. Open talent pools close on May 1 and reopen based on the needs of the College.

This posting may be used to fill multiple or similar positions.

Application Procedures:

A completed application package includes:

  • A resume or CV;
  • A cover letter or letter of interest;
  • A copy of your academic transcripts or related licenses/certifications;
  • A one-page statement of your teaching philosophy; and
  • A list of courses and the semesters you have taught (if applicable).

The application will ask for you to provide three references. We ask that they are all professional references and at least one is a current/recent supervisor.

Additional Information/Benefits:

Transcript Note: While unofficial copies are accepted at the application stage, the following information must be included: your name, institution name, degree achieved (subject and degree type), date of degree achieved, and courses completed. If selected to move forward, official copies will be required.

Salary Information: The pay range for Part-Time Instructors varies, depending on the type of course, the contact ratio and contact hours. Please refer to our Part-Time Instructor Pay Matrix for detailed information.

Benefits Information: For information about benefits for Instructors and Hourly Employees, please see the Front Range Community College Benefits page.

Welcoming. Respectful. Inclusive. Together, we are FRCC.