Regional Aquatic Director

About the Role

The Regional Aquatic Director provides leadership for aquatic operations across the YMCA association, ensuring consistency in safety standards, risk management practices, staff training, and program delivery. This position directly manages aquatic operations at an assigned branch while serving as the association's aquatic leader, providing guidance and oversight to branch Aquatic Directors and Coordinators at other locations. The role promotes operational excellence, regulatory compliance, staff development, and a uniform member experience across all aquatic facilities while supporting the YMCA's mission and values.

Responsibilities

Association Leadership & Aquatic Operations

• Provide leadership and guidance to ensure all aquatic processes, programs, policies, and practices align with Association standards, YMCA aquatic standards, and industry best practices.
• Serve as the Association subject matter expert for aquatic operations, safety, risk management, compliance, and staff development.
• Collaborate with branch leadership, Aquatic Directors, and Aquatic Coordinators to maintain consistent aquatic procedures and operational standards throughout the Association.
• Plan, organize, direct, and evaluate aquatic programs, services, rentals, and facility operations to meet community needs and Association objectives.
• Ensure aquatic programming is delivered at a high level of quality and is inclusive of participants of all ages, abilities, and skill levels.

Branch Aquatic Department Management

• Directly oversee all aquatic operations, programs, staffing, and facility management at the assigned branch.
• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, supervise, develop, and evaluate aquatic staff.
• Monitor inventory levels and purchase departmental supplies and equipment as needed.
• Prepare, administer, and manage departmental budgets.
• Complete required administrative functions, reports, and documentation accurately and in a timely manner.

Safety, Risk Management & Compliance

• Ensure the care, safety, and well-being of all members, guests, volunteers, and staff in the aquatic environment.
• Ensure compliance with YMCA standards, Association policies, and all applicable regulations and certifications.
• Maintain all required records and documentation according to YMCA, state, and local requirements.
• Review incidents and operational risks and implement corrective actions as needed.

Training & Staff Development

• Lead and coordinate Association-wide aquatic training, onboarding, certification, recertification, and professional development initiatives.
• Ensure staff are properly trained in safety procedures, emergency action plans, rescue skills, and risk management practices.
• Conduct monthly staff meetings that include in-service training, emergency preparedness drills, and skills assessments.
• Provide coaching and guidance to Aquatic Directors and Aquatic Coordinators across the Association.

Member & Community Engagement

• Interact with members, guests, staff, volunteers, and community partners in a positive, professional manner.
• Participate in YMCA and community events as a representative of the Association.
• Support the growth and success of aquatic programs that strengthen community engagement and enhance member satisfaction.
• Provide logistical oversight and manage rental groups and community partners.

Requirements

• 5-7 years of Aquatic Leadership or related experience.
• 5-7 years of staff supervision experience.
• BS in physical education, recreation, or related field preferred, or equivalent education and work experience.
• Current lifeguard, CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications required.
• NJ Pool Director Certification required.
• CPO/TPO or YPO certification preferred; must complete within 6 months if not already certified.
• Program management experience.
• Experience managing rental groups and community partners.
• Experience managing a Colorado Timing System.
• Budget development and management experience.
• Previous supervisory experience with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to interact with a diverse population.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office software.

Required Certifications

• WSI/YSL (preferred).
• LGI (preferred).
• Current Lifeguard certification.
• CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications.
• NJ Pool Director Certification.