Aquatics Director

Job Description

Want to make a difference in your community? Join our YMCA Team today! We are seeking an enthusiastic, mission-driven Aquatics Director to lead our aquatics department and help ensure exceptional experiences for members of all ages and skill levels. From swim lessons and recreational programs to staff development and pool operations, this role is an exciting opportunity to shape a thriving aquatics program that serves hundreds of community members each week. If you're a hands-on leader who is passionate about water safety, staff development, and creating welcoming experiences for all, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Do

As the Aquatics Director, you will oversee all aspects of the YMCA's aquatic operations, safety, staffing, and programming.

Program Leadership & Growth

• Lead and oversee all aquatics programs, including swim lessons, recreational swimming, aquatic fitness classes, and off-site swim team activities.
• Evaluate community needs and develop new programs that increase participation and engagement.
• Promote aquatics offerings through community outreach and marketing efforts.
• Monitor program performance, participation trends, and overall effectiveness.

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatics staff.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and team-oriented work environment.
• Conduct staff onboarding, coaching, performance evaluations, and professional development.
• Lead monthly in-service trainings, emergency drills, and certifications.
• Ensure all staff certifications remain current and compliant.

Pool Operations & Safety

• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and well-managed aquatic environment.
• Ensure compliance with all YMCA, state, and local health and safety regulations.
• Oversee pool maintenance, chemical testing, facility inspections, and operational records.
• Serve as a leader during emergency situations and ensure staff readiness for emergency response.

Administration & Financial Management

• Develop and manage department budgets.
• Prepare payroll, schedules, reports, and participation data.
• Coordinate pool scheduling to meet member and program needs.
• Support YMCA fundraising initiatives and special events.
• Respond promptly and professionally to member feedback, questions, and concerns.

Required Qualifications

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Physical Education, Sports Management, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum age of 21 years.
• Aquatics leadership experience with demonstrated responsibility for staff supervision and program management.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic safety practices, swim instruction, and pool operations.
• Ability to build strong relationships with members, staff, families, and community partners.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Current certifications in Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, First Aid, and Swim Instruction, or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Strong swimming ability and knowledge of stroke mechanics.

Preferred Qualifications

• YMCA Team Leader Certification.
• YMCA Aquatics training and trainer certifications.
• Previous experience as an Aquatics Coordinator, Aquatics Supervisor, or similar leadership role.
• Experience managing budgets, schedules, and staff development initiatives.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Remain alert and responsive while supervising aquatic activities.
• Hear and respond to emergency situations and distress signals.
• Move throughout the facility and pool deck safely and efficiently.
• Demonstrate aquatic skills as required.
• Occasionally lift and move equipment and supplies.
• Work in a humid pool environment as well as a standard office setting.

Requirements

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must acquire and maintain certification with the following and within required timelines: Ellis LG & LGI, American Red Cross WSI or WSIT, Vangaard Aquatics Supervisor Training
• Minimum of 3-5 years of related work experience, supervisory experience preferred
• Bachelors Degree preferred
• Must be physically able to teach aquatic lessons and lift an adult male from the pool to the pool deck
• Complete program specific and employee orientation training by required timeline.