Aquatics Supervisor

Aquatics Supervisor

Duke Recreation & Physical Education is looking for an Aquatics Supervisor to join our Aquatics team. In this role, you'll be a key on-deck leader for our swim programming—keeping operations running smoothly, supporting instructors and lifeguards, and ensuring every participant has a safe and high-quality experience. You'll work closely with the Aquatics Coordinator and serve as a go-to resource for staff and patrons alike. This is a great opportunity to grow your leadership skills while making a direct impact on a program you're passionate about.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification or equivalent (required)
• Current CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid certification (required)
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification (preferred)
• Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) and/or CPR/AED/First Aid Instructor certifications (preferred)
• Minimum of two years of experience in an aquatic supervision or recreation environment
• 3 or more years of swim instruction experience, with strong background working with swimmers ages 6 months through adult
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced aquatic environment
• Maintains flexible availability across afternoons, evenings, and weekends, including academic break periods and inclement weather days when the university remains operational

Core Responsibilities:

• Program Support & Operations
• Serve as on-deck supervisor during assigned shifts, actively supporting swim programming and maintaining a safe, welcoming pool environment
• Ensure program setup is complete in Fusion software prior to each session, including roster printing and check-in system readiness
• Conduct swim assessments and assist with lesson logistics as needed
• Maintain equipment organization and ensure readiness for all aquatics programs
• Respond to aquatic emergencies and implement Emergency Action Plans in accordance with DRPE protocols
• Enforce all pool rules, safety protocols, and department policies
• Administrative & Scheduling Coordination
• Coordinate and manage instructor scheduling in alignment with program needs and participant enrollment
• Provide weekly wrap-up and planning support to ensure seamless program transitions, including weekend coverage
• Monitor and respond to inquiries sent to the general aquatics email inbox, providing timely and accurate information to current and prospective participants
• Maintain accurate operational records, logs, and tracking documentation as directed
• Staff Collaboration & Communication
• Attend weekly coordination meetings with Aquatics leadership to align on priorities, staffing, and programming updates
• Work closely with the Aquatics Coordinator on staff feedback, performance support, and development
• Support onboarding, training, and orientation efforts for new instructors and lifeguards
• Communicate schedule changes, programming updates, and facility needs to staff and patrons promptly
• Department Engagement
• Model and promote the Duke Rec & PE mission, core values, and customer service standards
• Attend staff meetings, training, and professional development as requested
• Support departmental initiatives and contribute to a collaborative team culture

Expectations:

• Demonstrate professionalism, leadership, and accountability in all interactions
• Maintain a safe, clean, and inclusive environment for all participants and staff
• Complete all assigned duties and shifts reliably
• Maintain current CPR/AED/First Aid and Lifeguard certifications
• Submit timecards accurately and on time

Schedule & Compensation:

• Must be able to work 29.9 hours per week – On-site
• Flexible availability required, including afternoon/evening shifts Monday–Thursday and one weekend day
• Pay: $21.00 per hour
• Benefits: Vacation/sick accrual, optional health benefits, free Duke Recreation & Physical Education staff membership

Choose Duke. Join a team that is as passionate about people as it is about the water. Duke Recreation & Physical Education offers a dynamic, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment where your contributions directly shape the experience of our community. You'll have the opportunity to develop your leadership, grow professionally, and be part of a department that is committed to innovation, belonging, and excellence. Duke University is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, and our Recreation & Physical Education department reflects that standard—offering best-in-class facilities, programs, and people. Beyond the meaningful work, you'll benefit from Duke's competitive benefits package, including optional health coverage, accrued paid time off, and a complimentary recreation membership.