Director of Aquatics

Director of Aquatics

Job Category: Recreation

Location: Wilderness Ridge, Lincoln, NE 68512, USA

Description

Essential Functions

Aquatics Operations & Safety

• Oversee the daily operation of all aquatic facilities, including pools, splash areas, locker rooms, and surrounding amenities.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, local, and club safety regulations.
• Maintain proper pool chemistry and water quality standards.
• Coordinate pool maintenance and repairs with the Facilities Department and outside contractors as necessary.
• Develop, implement, and monitor all aquatics safety and risk management programs.
• Maintain accurate records of pool operations, chemical testing, maintenance logs, incident reports, and safety inspections.
• Assist with seasonal pool opening and closing procedures.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA requirements and maintain all required safety documentation.

Leadership & Staff Development

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate lifeguards, swim instructors, camp staff, and seasonal aquatics employees.
• Conduct regular staff meetings, in-service trainings, and emergency preparedness drills.
• Ensure all certifications remain current and staff meet all training requirements.
• Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented culture.
• Provide coaching, development, and performance feedback to team members.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels to support member usage and special events.

Programming & Member Experience

• Develop and oversee swim lessons, swim team programming, clinics, camps, and aquatics events.
• Create innovative programs that enhance member engagement and participation.
• Coordinate private and group swim lessons.
• Oversee swim team operations, competitions, awards programs, and related activities.
• Plan and execute special events that create memorable experiences for members and their families.
• Maintain a visible presence around the pool and build positive relationships with members and guests.
• Address member concerns promptly and professionally.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual aquatics operating budget.
• Monitor labor costs, operating expenses, and program revenue to achieve departmental goals.
• Manage aquatics inventory and equipment purchases.
• Recommend capital improvements and equipment replacements as needed.
• Track participation and program performance metrics to identify growth opportunities.

Communication & Club Leadership

• Partner with the Marketing team to promote aquatics programs, lessons, camps, and special events.
• Provide content and updates for member communications and newsletters.
• Collaborate with other departments to support club-wide initiatives and events.
• Attend department head meetings and contribute to the overall success of the club.
• Represent Wilderness Ridge in a professional manner at all times.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Physical Education, Sports Management, Hospitality Management, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum three years of progressive aquatics leadership experience.
• Experience supervising seasonal and year-round staff.
• Competitive swimming, coaching, or swim instruction experience preferred.
• Private club experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Certifications

Required:

• Current Lifeguard Certification
• CPR/AED Certification
• First Aid Certification
• Pool Operator Certification

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Ability to work in hot, humid, wet, and noisy environments.
• Frequent bending, climbing, reaching, stooping, and repetitive motions.

Performs all other duties as assigned by club leadership.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.