Aquatic Director

Job Description

Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Aquatics Director Job Code: 310601

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Job Classification: B

Reports to: OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Revision Date: 4.17.2026

MISSION:

To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Operations Director, the Aquatics Director is responsible for the development, implementation, supervision, administration, and evaluation of all aquatics programs and operations. This includes staff leadership, program quality, financial oversight, and risk management within the aquatic environment.

The Aquatics Director is expected to foster a highly engaging, relationship-driven environment by consistently building rapport with members, program participants, families, and staff. This role plays a critical part in ensuring a welcoming, inclusive, and service-focused culture that drives member satisfaction, retention, and program growth.

The Aquatics Director will lead with professionalism, visibility, and accountability, while maintaining an upbeat, solutions-oriented approach that aligns with the YMCA’s mission and values. This is a full-time position requiring a flexible schedule, including availability during evenings and weekends based on program and operational needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Program Development & Management

• Assure the safe, smooth running and continuity of all assigned programs.
• Maintain active surveillance of the pool area and lifeguards for areas of responsibility.
• Consistently enforce safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
• Be knowledgeable and available to Lifeguard or teach Swim Lessons as needed.
• Plan, manage and conduct all aspects of Lifeguard and Swim Lesson Curriculum.
• Develop and monitor Aquatic Department program budget.
• Assure all programs meet stated YMCA goals and objectives.
• Plan, organize, and implement all assigned programs in a timely manner.
• Hire and supervise lifeguards and swim lesson instructors to provide quality operations.
• Assure all staff know all emergency procedures and respond to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and completes incident reports as required.
• Ensure programs follow the format and philosophy of the Y-USA National Model.
• Communicate new programs and pool schedule changes to appropriate staff, supervisor and members immediately.
• Conduct on-going program evaluations to measure program quality and participant satisfaction.
• Provide estimates and request permission for all purchases prior to ordering.

Staff Development

• Orient, train, and supervise all staff for all areas of responsibility according to Y policies.
• Maintain up-to-date personnel files including required certifications.
• Conduct and document monthly in-service training and quarterly safety drills at minimum.
• Provide written job descriptions and performance standards for all staff and volunteers.
• Assure proper staff coverage at all times.
• Assure staff is dressed properly and easily identifiable while on duty.
• Provide staff and volunteers with annual performance reviews.
• Assure staff enforces pool rules and regulations at all times.
• Assure staff follows through on assignments as requested.

Leadership Presence & Engagement

• Maintain a strong on-deck and on-site presence to actively support staff, observe programs, and ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Lead by example in professionalism, engagement, and member interaction at all times.
• Proactively identify opportunities to enhance the member experience through relationship-building and program improvements.

Safety and Risk Management

• Maintain accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state health department code.
• Perform equipment checks and ensure appropriate equipment is available as needed.
• Inspect pools, equipment, and surrounding areas at all times for hazardous conditions and address immediately.
• Assure chemical testing is performed and logged as required.
• Inventory and assure all program supplies and equipment is in safe working condition.
• Assure all supplies and equipment are properly stored at all times.
• Maintain organized and detailed files of all records, logs, etc.
• Assure pool maintenance tasks are scheduled and completed in the time requested.
• Complete incident report forms within 24 hours of an incident and forward toimmediate supervisor.
• Assure aquatic center complies with all applicable state and local aquatic safety codes and regulations as well as Y-USA’s aquatic safety guidelines.
• Partner with community organizations to reduce the risk of childhood drowning by providing water safety skills to vulnerable youth.

Member / Staff Relations

• Be highly visible, approachable, and actively engaged in the Aquatic Center during all shifts.
• Intentionally build and maintain strong, professional relationships with members, program participants, families, and staff to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Create a culture of connection by consistently engaging with participants, learning names, and promoting a positive member experience.
• Address member and participant concerns promptly, professionally, and with a solution-oriented mindset.
• Ensure all communication materials and program information are current, accurate, and aligned with YMCA brand standards.
• Assure all program materials and correspondence meet YMCA brand compliance.
• Be visible and accessible in the Aquatic Center while on duty.
• Assure all communication pieces, including program schedules are current, and available at the Front Desk at all times, updated on the website and promoted on social media.
• Respond to all messages within 24 hours.
• Respond to all suggestion/complaint forms within 3 working days from the date received.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with other staff, parents, youth, adult members, and guests at all times.
• Work to resolve member/participant concerns in a timely and positive manner.
• Collaborate with leadership and marketing to promote programs and increase participation through effective outreach and engagement strategies.
• Respond to all messages within 24 hours and all concerns within 2 business days.

Other Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain current certifications and skills deemed necessary for the position.
• Be responsible and punctual to work schedules.
• Attend and participate in all staff meetings as required.
• Present professional image, demonstrating conflict resolution skills and sound judgment.
• Assist with special events as needed including Incredible Edibles and Annual Support Campaign.
• Promote and represent the Y at community venues, e.g. health fairs, expos, etc.
• Be willing to accept additional responsibilities when asked.

WORK SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS:

• Must maintain full availability to support operational needs of the aquatics department.
• Availability must include early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as required by programming and staffing demands.
• Schedule will vary based on program needs, events, staffing coverage, and facility operations.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

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 fund-raising.

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.

Operational Effectiveness : Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth : Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• HS Diploma or equivalent GED.
• Minimum of two years’ experience in supervision and management.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be able to model the core values; Caring, Respect, Responsibility, and Honesty
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic
  segments of the community.
• Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
• Ability to consistently build rapport and establish meaningful relationships with individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to engage, motivate, and develop staff.
• Demonstrated commitment to delivering high-quality, member-focused programming.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of organization and attention to detail.
• Flexibility and willingness to work a variable schedule to meet the needs of the department.
• Must display a strong commitment to excellence by being highly visible and engaged with staff, program participants and members.
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to be professional, alert, courteous, and diplomatic.
• Proficiency with Windows based computers.
• Current Lifeguard Instructor, Lifeguard, AED/CPR, First Aid, Swim Lesson Instructor, Swim Lesson Instructor Trainer certifications required within 30 days of hire date or position acceptance.
• Must display a strong commitment to excellence by being highly visible and engaged with staff, program participants and members.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee frequently is required to stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, talk, hear, stand, walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

I have read and understand the above position description and accept the position at the agreed upon salary and conditions as indicated. I agree to fulfill all requirements necessary for the performance of all job segments described. By example, in performance, through behavior and in interaction with other staff, members, and volunteers I will further the mission and goals of the YMCA and make a positive contribution to the success of the Y.