Aquatics Director - Ipswich YMCA

Are you an experienced aquatics professional who enjoys leading a team, building engaging programs, and creating a safe and welcoming environment for members? Do you have a passion for swimming and water safety and want to make a meaningful impact in your community? If so, this may be the opportunity for you.

The Ipswich YMCA is seeking an Aquatics Director to oversee the daily operations and programming of our aquatics department. This role is responsible for supporting a high-quality aquatics experience for members of all ages and abilities while ensuring the safe and effective operation of our facilities.

The Ipswich YMCA features two indoor pools and one seasonal outdoor pool , serving a wide range of community needs. Our aquatics department offers swim lessons, aquatic fitness classes, recreational swimming, pool rentals, and opportunities for swimmers to continue their development through competitive aquatics programs.

As the Aquatics Director, you will provide leadership and support to lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatic staff while overseeing programming, scheduling, safety, and member engagement. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines staff management, program oversight, and community relationship building.
What You'll Do
Lead Aquatics Operations

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of two indoor pools and one seasonal outdoor pool
• Ensure a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for members, guests, and staff
• Maintain compliance with YMCA policies and all applicable safety and regulatory standards
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and support risk management efforts

Support Staff and Program Growth

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatic staff
• Provide ongoing coaching, support, and professional development opportunities
• Help create a positive team culture focused on safety, service, and member experience
• Ensure all required certifications and trainings remain current

Deliver Quality Aquatics Programs

• Oversee swim lessons, aquatic fitness programs, recreational swimming, and rentals
• Support participant retention and progression through YMCA aquatics programs
• Work collaboratively with competitive aquatics partners to help swimmers continue their development
• Evaluate program offerings and identify opportunities to enhance participation and engagement

Build Strong Member Relationships

• Connect with participants and families to create a positive YMCA experience
• Address member questions and concerns in a timely and professional manner
• Foster an environment that promotes confidence, achievement, and a lifelong love of swimming

What We're Looking For

• Previous aquatics leadership or supervisory experience
• Experience managing staff and coordinating schedules
• Knowledge of aquatics operations, water safety, and risk management practices
• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of service and safety
• Passion for developing staff and creating quality experiences for members

Why Work at the Y?

At the YMCA, you're part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

We offer:

• Free YMCA membership and employee discounts on programs
• Health and dental insurance for full-time employees
• Paid training and professional development
• Opportunities for advancement across our seven YMCA locations
• Three weeks of paid vacation, plus generous sick and personal time
• Retirement plan with a 12% employer contribution (once vested, no match required)
• Employer-paid life insurance

If you're ready to lead a growing aquatics department and help create positive experiences for swimmers and families throughout the community, we'd love to hear from you.

• Current certifications in Lifeguard/Swim Instructor, Pro CPR, First Aid and Oxygen, or willing to obtain
• Must be able to demonstrate proficiency of swim skills in accordance with YMCA standards and have a strong foundation in stroke mechanics
• A Minimum of 3-5 years progressive leadership and oversight of an aquatics center

The YMCA is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religious creed, protected genetic information, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran's status.