Aquatics Director

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Position Summary

The Aquatic Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, daily operations, safety, and financial performance of the Aquatics Department. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, inclusive aquatic programs aligned with the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester mission to eliminate racism and empower women.

The role requires a balance of administrative leadership and direct service delivery, ensuring strong program execution, staff performance, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Leadership & Development

• Direct and oversee all aquatic programs, including:
• Learn-to-Swim (group and private lessons)
• Water fitness programs
• Youth and community-based aquatic programs
• Summer camp aquatics programming
• Develop, implement, and evaluate programs to meet participation and revenue goals
• Manage pool scheduling to maximize utilization while maintaining safety standards
• Ensure instructional quality consistent with American Red Cross or equivalent standards
• Collaborate closely with the Middies Swim Team Director to coordinate scheduling, shared pool space, and team development
• Maintain active engagement in program delivery, dedicating approximately 50% of work time to direct service (instruction, lifeguarding, WSI)

2. Pool Operations & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and regulatory aquatic safety standards
• Oversee pool maintenance, water quality, and inspections in partnership with facilities staff
• Develop and enforce emergency action and risk management procedures
• Monitor incident reporting and implement corrective actions as needed

3. Staff Supervision & Human Resources Management

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and supervise aquatic staff, including lifeguards and instructors
• Develop staff schedules ensuring adequate coverage during all operating hours
• Ensure all certifications remain current and compliant
• Conduct performance evaluations, coaching, and corrective action when necessary
• Facilitate ongoing training and professional development

4. Financial Management

• Develop and manage annual aquatic department budget
• Monitor revenue streams (programs, private lessons, rentals) and control expenses
• Track performance against revenue and participation targets
• Identify opportunities for program growth and earned income

5. Community Engagement & Membership Experience

• Build partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local stakeholders
• Promote aquatics programming to increase engagement and retention
• Support membership growth and satisfaction
• Represent the YWCA in community initiatives and events

Performance Metrics (Key Performance Indicators – KPIs):

Program Delivery & Engagement:

• 50% of time dedicated to direct service delivery (instruction/lifeguarding/WSI)
• Achievement of program enrollment and participation goals
• Improvement in participant retention rates
• Successful implementation of summer camp aquatics programming

Safety & Compliance:

• Full compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements
• Zero preventable safety incidents; timely reporting of all incidents
• 100% staff certification compliance
• Completion of required drills and safety trainings

Staff Management:

• Maintenance of full staffing levels and coverage
• Staff retention and engagement
• Completion of performance evaluations and training plans
• Compliance with staff-to-participant ratios

Financial Performance:

• Adherence to approved budget
• Achievement of revenue targets
• Increased pool utilization rates
• Cost control and efficient resource allocation

Collaboration & Engagement:

• Effective coordination with Middies Swim Team Director
• Positive member satisfaction and feedback scores
• Growth in community partnerships
• Contribution to overall membership retention

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sports Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 3–5 years of aquatics management experience
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills
• Experience with learn-to-swim programming (American Red Cross or equivalent)

Required Certifications

• Lifeguard Certification (deep water)
• CPR/AED and First Aid
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO)

Preferred Certifications

• American Red Cross WSI Trainer (WSIT)
• Lifeguard Instructor (LGI)
• Lifeguard Management certification

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in nonprofit or community-based organizations
• Experience managing multi-use aquatic facilities
• Competitive swim program management experience

Work Environment & Schedule

• Includes indoor pool and office environment
• Requires standing, walking, and active participation in aquatic programs
• Must be available for evenings and at least one weekend day
• Exposure to pool chemicals and aquatic environment conditions

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform lifeguarding and swim instruction duties
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations
• Ability to lift up to 25–50 lbs as needed

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $65,000-$70,000
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and Paid Time Off
• Professional development opportunities

Organizational Overview

The YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester serves over 4,000 individuals weekly through childcare, after-school programs, summer camp, aquatics, and mission-based services. The organization also provides housing for 193 low-income women.

We are committed to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting dignity, justice, and opportunity for all.

Equal Opportunity Statement

YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.