Aquatics Director

As the Aquatics Director, you will be a key leader in advancing the YMCA’s mission to strengthen and empower our community. Reporting to the Executive Director and Program Executive of Aquatics, you will oversee all aquatic operations and programming at the center. Your leadership will directly influence the quality, safety, and growth of aquatic services, ensuring an exceptional experience for members, staff, and families alike. This is a strategic and hands-on role for someone who thrives in people leadership, program management, and community engagement. You will be responsible for supervising and developing staff, ensuring program excellence, managing risk and compliance, and aligning aquatic operations with the overall goals of the YMCA.

• Experience: 2-3 years in aquatics or recreational activities with a background in supervising and leading teams.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is highly preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Ability to apply basic accounting and finance principles.
• Current certifications in BLS (CPR-PRO), First Aid, Emergency Oxygen, Lifeguard, and Swim Instructor certifications.
• Lifeguard Instructor and Swim Instructor certifications must be obtained within the first six months.
• Must obtain CPO certification within 3 months
• YLGIT and YSLIT certifications are preferred.
• Familiarity with aquatic management software or scheduling tools is a plus.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and compliance regulations related to aquatics and recreational activities.

Physical Requirements

The Aquatics Director must be able to meet the physical demands of working in and around an aquatic environment. This includes the ability to walk, stand, sit, bend, and move freely throughout the facility, as well as respond quickly to emergencies, including entering the water and performing rescues when necessary. Clear hearing and verbal communication are essential for monitoring staff, responding to safety signals or distress calls, and giving directions in a potentially loud and echo-prone environment. The role also requires the ability to lift and/or move equipment or individuals weighing up to 50 pounds. Candidates must be comfortable working in wet and humid conditions for extended periods and may occasionally be exposed to varying weather conditions during outdoor activities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

• Fosters a culture that builds trust and treats all team members and colleagues with respect; constructively and immediately deals with conflict; gains commitment and provides clarity; holds team members accountable and cultivates peer accountability; and achieves results to meet strategic and operational goals.
• Models inclusive leadership behaviors and embraces all dimensions of diversity – building strong teams that apply their diverse skills and perspectives to our mission.
• Responsible for hiring, coaching, and managing all direct reports and ensuring alignment with the association's people practices for all positions within their organizational structure.
• Conducts Check-ins and the Annual Check-In with direct reports to ensure progress with goals, providing ongoing coaching and feedback, and discussing development opportunities.
• Spearhead the creation and rollout of engaging aquatics programs that address community needs and enhance member satisfaction. Implement cutting-edge initiatives to keep programming fresh and impactful.
• Continuously evaluate program effectiveness and make data-driven improvements to ensure high engagement and positive outcomes.
• Strategically recruit and develop a high-performing aquatics team. Provide ongoing mentorship and training to ensure staff are experts in their roles and aligned with organizational goals.
• Recognize team’s achievements and address areas for improvement, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Validate and manage department payroll with precision, ensuring timely and accurate compensation.
• Lead comprehensive safety and compliance audits, ensuring all staff certifications are up-to-date and regulatory standards are met.
• Oversee the accuracy and currency of aquatics information across all platforms, enhancing member access and engagement.
• Respond swiftly to member and community inquiries, resolving issues effectively to boost member satisfaction and build strong relationships.
• Proactively engage with members through various communication channels to enhance their experience and retention.
• Strategically communicate aquatic programming and events through social media, digital platforms, and internal channels, ensuring broad visibility and impact.
• Oversee and manage the budget for aquatics programs, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively and expenses are monitored.
• Identify and address potential risks associated with aquatics operations, ensuring safety protocols are followed and mitigating any risks to maintain a secure environment.
• Develop and manage staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all aquatics programs and facilities.
• Address any scheduling conflicts and ensure that shifts are filled to maintain smooth operation
• Oversee and manage the budget for aquatics programs, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively and expenses are monitored.
• Create a positive, motivating work environment and lead by example as a Cause Driven Leader on Duty or Director on Duty.
• Assist in-center fundraising activities and special events, ensuring seamless execution and effective promotion.
• Drive team engagement and effectiveness, setting high standards for service and leadership.
• Represent the aquatics department on the Impact Team and contribute to strategic planning and decision-making.
• Act as the liaison for key programs such as Project SAFE, ensuring successful implementation and impact.
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to the YMCA’s mission, integrating these values into daily operations and strategic efforts.
• Perform additional tasks as needed to support the overall operations and goals of the aquatics department and the YMCA.