Deck Supervisor

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Under the supervision of the Swim Lesson Director , the Deck Supervisor is the anchor of the pool deck during peak programming. This role ensures the swim school operates at maximum efficiency by organizing lesson flow, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and serving as the primary bridge between parents and staff. Beyond logistics, the Deck Supervisor is a mentor, responsible for the technical development and quality control of the swim instruction team. In accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.

YMCA Mission and Core Values :

The mission of the YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs, services, and relationships that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The Core Values of the YMCA are Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. At the Bloomington-Normal YMCA we are a team of employees dedicated to advancing the mission and values of the YMCA through service and support of all members in our unique community. 

Our Culture :

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming : we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine : we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful : we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing : we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined : above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. 

YMCA Required Competencies :

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.

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.  

Relationships: Builds authentic relationships in the service of enhancing individual and team performance to support the Y’s work. 

Communication: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a manner that reflects a true understanding of the needs of the audience.

Job Duties:

• Flow Management: Direct the movement of students and instructors to ensure all lessons start and end on time.
• Attendance & Rosters: Monitor student check-ins and coordinate class assignments or level changes on the fly.
• Shift Coordination: Lead pre-shift/ post-shift huddles to communicate daily goals, safety reminders, and instructor lane assignments.
• Substitute Management: Quickly fill gaps or act as a substitute instructor when needed to prevent lesson cancellations.
• Quality Control: Observe lessons to ensure the facility's specific curriculum is being followed accurately and safely.
• Real-Time Coaching: Provide immediate, constructive feedback to instructors to improve their teaching techniques and student engagement.
• Staff Development: Assist in training new hires and leading in-service training sessions to elevate the team’s overall skill level.
• Parent Liaison: Act as the face of the deck, answering questions about student progress and resolving concerns immediately.
• Progress Reporting: Oversee the accuracy of student evaluations and ensure parents receive timely updates on their child’s milestones.
• Ambassador Role: Promote a positive, high-energy culture that makes families feel welcome and valued.
• Hazard Prevention: Conduct regular walkthroughs to identify and resolve safety hazards or equipment wear-and-tear.
• Sanitation: Ensure the deck, equipment, and changing areas remain organized and meet health and safety cleanliness standards.
• Emergency Response: Serve as a primary responder in the event of an incident, overseeing the Emergency Action Plan (EAP).

Work Environment :

• Climate Conditions: This role is performed in a hot and humid indoor aquatic environment for extended periods. Candidates must be comfortable working in high temperatures and moisture-rich air.
• Aquatic Exposure: Regular exposure to chlorinated water and pool chemicals is required. The supervisor may need to enter the water frequently to assist with instruction or during emergency situations.
• Physical Stamina: The role requires standing and walking on hard, wet surfaces for the duration of a shift (typically 4–8 hours).
• Audio Environment: Must be able to communicate effectively in a high-decibel environment with background noise (splashing, whistles, and multiple conversations).
• PPE & Safety: Required to wear appropriate deck attire (e.g., non-slip footwear, swimwear, or branded athletic gear) and use safety equipment as directed.

Necessary Skills and Qualifications :

• Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience as a Swim Instructor; previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Certifications: Current Lifeguard, CPR/AED, and First Aid certifications (WSI or equivalent preferred).
• Skills: Strong conflict resolution skills, the ability to multitask in a loud environment, and a passion for youth development.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications :

• Possession of Spanish language both written and spoken.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION AND REQUIRED TRAININGS & CERTIFICATIONS

The Bloomington-Normal YMCA adheres to the strictest regulations pertaining to Child Abuse Prevention and requires all staff and volunteers to complete Child Abuse Prevention Training at time of hire and on an annual basis. Other required trainings and certifications, provided by the YMCA during on-boarding or within the first 60 days of employment, include: Illinois Mandated Reporter Certification, Illinois Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Training, CPR/AED/First Aid certification, and OSHA training including Bloodborne Pathogens.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The Bloomington-Normal YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

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