Association Director of Aquatics

Job Description

Under the direction of the Vice President of Program Operations, the Association Aquatics Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all YMCA aquatic facilities, including satellite locations. This position ensures consistent, high-quality aquatic operations through staff development, risk management, program growth, operational excellence, and compliance with YMCA and regulatory standards across the association.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Three to five years of Aquatics Director or equivalent leadership experience, including staff supervision, program management, and budgeting.
• Experience overseeing multiple aquatic facilities or locations preferred.
• Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding, Lifeguarding Instructor (LGI) and CPR/AED/First Aid Instructor certifications required.
• Lifeguarding Instructor Trainer (LGIT) certification preferred or the ability to obtain within one year of hire.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic operations, risk management, state health codes, and American Red Cross standards.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, scheduling software, and other computer applications.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license and the ability to travel regularly between YMCA branches and satellite locations.

Essential Functions

• Provide leadership and operational oversight for all YMCA-managed aquatic facilities, including satellite locations.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and support Aquatics Directors, Coordinators, and aquatic leadership staff.
• Develop and implement association-wide aquatic programs, policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Work alongside the Marketing Department to promote aquatic programs and increase participation throughout the association.
• Develop staffing strategies, oversee recruitment efforts, and ensure appropriate staffing levels across all locations.
• Oversee American Red Cross training programs, instructor development, and certification compliance.
• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, state and local health codes, American Red Cross standards, and risk management practices.
• Develop and monitor department budgets, operational performance, and strategic goals.
• Support the WYNS Swim Team and collaborate on facility scheduling and operational needs.
• Coordinate facility maintenance, equipment replacement, and capital improvement planning with branch leadership.
• Build and maintain partnerships with municipalities, school districts, and community organizations that operate aquatic facilities in partnership with the YMCA.
• Provide leadership during emergencies, major incidents, and operational challenges affecting aquatic facilities.
• Foster collaboration among aquatic leadership to ensure consistent operations and an exceptional member experience across the association.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Program Operations.

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

• Building and maintaining positive relationships with YMCA leadership, aquatic staff, school districts, municipal partners, and community members.
• Ensuring all aquatic facilities are safely staffed, well-maintained, and operated in compliance with YMCA and regulatory standards.
• Achieving growth in aquatic programs, participation, and revenue across the association.
• Recruiting, developing, and retaining a highly qualified aquatic leadership team and staff.
• Maintaining consistent, high-quality aquatic operations and member experience across all YMCA and satellite locations.
• Successfully meeting departmental budgets, operational goals, and risk management objectives.