Seeking an energetic individual who is excited about mentoring and developing a strong aquatic team to deliver safe, quality programs.
Job Description
The Aquatics Director provides strategic leadership for all aquatic programs ensuring alignment with the YMCA’s mission and commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This role holds full responsibility for department performance, including aquatic safety, program quality, staff leadership, and fiscal management. The Aquatics Director fosters a culture of safety, excellence, and inclusion while delivering high‑impact aquatic experiences that meet community needs and organizational goals.
OUR CAUSE: We are a powerful association of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. We believe that lasting personal and social change can only come about when we all work together to invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. That’s why, at the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side‑by‑side with our neighbors in 10,000 communities to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
Qualifications
- Applicable degree or comparable work experience preferred.
- Must have excellent verifiable experience communicating with a team.
- Excellent interpersonal and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community. 3+ years of experience/training in leading a large team.
- Experience in handling and resolving customer concerns and complaints.
- Certifications Required: YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, and First Aid. LGIT & CPO a plus.
- Must maintain a valid Driver’s License.
- YMCA Team Leader certification preferred in the required time frame.
Essential Functions
Department Leadership & Strategic Oversight: Provide strategic leadership and overall direction for the Aquatics Department in alignment with the YMCA’s mission, values, and organizational goals. Establish departmental priorities, performance expectations, and long‑term objectives that support program excellence, safety, and sustainability. Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure aquatic operations integrate seamlessly with broader branch initiatives.
Aquatic Safety & Risk Management: Foster and uphold a culture of safety across all aquatic operations, ensuring proactive risk management strategies and clear protocols for emergencies, accident prevention, and incident response. Ensure a safe swimming environment by overseeing lifeguard performance, enforcing health and safety protocols, and maintaining operational awareness of pool and deck areas. Lead incident preparedness initiatives by conducting regular safety drills and ensuring staff are trained in rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, and emergency response procedures. Maintain compliance with YMCA standards and all state and local safety regulations.
Program Development & Instruction: Design, implement, and evaluate innovative aquatic programs that meet community needs and advance healthy living initiatives. Oversee swim lessons, water fitness, swim team, and aquatic safety education programs to ensure quality instruction and positive participant experiences. Monitor enrollment trends, assess program outcomes, and adapt offerings to improve engagement, accessibility, and impact.
Fiscal & Budgetary Management: Develop, manage, and monitor the Aquatics Department budget with accountability for revenue generation, expense control, and cost‑effective operations. Track financial performance, analyze program profitability, and adjust strategies to meet or exceed budgetary goals. Identify opportunities for growth, resource optimization, and long‑term financial sustainability.
Staff Recruitment & Workforce Planning: Coordinate with Human Resources on recruitment and hiring. Lead department onboarding, and scheduling processes for aquatic staff, including lifeguards, instructors and coaches, to ensure appropriate coverage and operational readiness. Develop staffing plans that support program demand, safety requirements, and staff retention while maintaining flexibility for seasonal and fluctuating needs.
Staff Training, Development & Performance Management: Provide ongoing training, including frequent lifeguard drills, coaching, and professional development opportunities for aquatic staff to support skill growth, leadership readiness, and certification maintenance. Conduct performance evaluations in accordance with YMCA policy, provide timely feedback, and implement corrective action plans when necessary. Foster a positive, inclusive team culture that emphasizes accountability, safety, and excellent member service.
Operations & Facility Oversight: Oversee daily aquatic operations to ensure compliance with all YMCA, state, and local health and safety regulations. Coordinate with facilities and maintenance teams to support inspections, repairs, preventative maintenance, and proper functioning of aquatic systems and equipment. Ensure facilities are clean, safe, and prepared to support program delivery.
Emergency Leadership & Incident Response: Serve as the lead authority during aquatic emergencies, coordinating response efforts, staff actions, and communication protocols. Ensure accurate incident documentation, facilitate post‑incident debriefs, and implement follow‑up actions to reduce future risk.
Community Engagement & Communication: Serve as the point of contact for aquatic program participants, parents, and community partners regarding programming, safety expectations, and operational updates. Communicate clearly and professionally to address concerns, promote transparency, and build trust. Support outreach, marketing, and community engagement efforts to expand participation and strengthen partnerships.
Operational Coverage & Department Visibility: Maintain visibility within aquatic operations to support staff, reinforce safety expectations, and ensure program continuity. Provide direct operational coverage when necessary to address staffing gaps or emergency needs. Lead monthly in‑service meetings, communicate policy and procedural updates, and ensure substitute coverage plans are in place.
