What are the responsibilities and job description for the Temporary Head Pool Operator-Recreation Leader III position at City of Alexandria, VA?
Overview
The Pool Technician oversees the daily operation and maintenance of three outdoor pools: Memorial, Warwick, and Old Town. This seasonal role runs from mid-April through mid-September. The technician ensures each facility remains safe, clean, chemically balanced, and fully operational for swimmers and staff.
This position is available as a morning or evening shift, typically three hours for evening shifts or four hours for morning shifts, with occasional additional hours as needed for equipment or chemical issues. The role requires independent judgement, clear communication, and the ability to coordinate effectively with supervisors and pool contractors.
A Message from the Director
Welcome to the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria’s diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.
As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.
Hashim T. Taylor, Director
Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities
About You
You are service-minded, dependable, and take pride in your work. You bring energy, professionalism, and a sense of purpose to every task, whether maintaining a park, supporting a program, or greeting visitors.
By joining RPCA, you become part of a team that takes pride in serving Alexandria and shaping experiences that last a lifetime.
As part of RPCA, you will be expected to:
Serve with purpose and approach each day with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence
Embody accountability and curiosity by taking initiative, asking questions, and seeking solutions
Demonstrate teamwork and respect, supporting colleagues and fostering a positive, inclusive environment
Stay responsive and reliable by being attentive, dependable, and engaged with the community
Reflect our values through transparency, professionalism, and wholehearted dedication to service
Responsibilities
Complete morning or evening rounds at all three pools before/after programs begin/end and confirm chemistry, circulation, and overall safety.
Perform manual chemical adjustments including adding sodium bicarbonate, calcium flakes, and other necessary chemicals.
Monitor and operate chemical feed systems and automated controllers such as CAT controllers.
Maintain accurate daily chemistry logs and follow all city and state health code requirements.
Inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot pumps, filters, heaters, valves, and other essential pool equipment.
Backwash filters, clean hair and lint baskets, release air from circulation systems, and perform other routine maintenance.
Adjust water levels, turn on fills, set timers, and confirm equipment is operating correctly.
Communicate clearly with supervisors, pool managers, and contractors about maintenance needs or repairs.
Provide basic guidance or training to staff regarding chemical checks, equipment care, and safe pump room practices.
Respond promptly to urgent issues such as chemical fluctuations, equipment failures, or safety concerns.
Keep pump rooms clean, organized, and compliant with safety procedures.
Identify when work exceeds the scope of a pool technician and requires contractor involvement. Examples include tube replacements handled by the technician versus full replumbing, completed by pool contractors.
Assist with summarization and winterization as needed.
Schedule is as followed:
AM Schedule:
7:30 to 8:00 Memorial Pool — Morning check including water chemistry, circulation, equipment, and needed adjustments
8:00 to 8:15 Travel to Warwick Pool
8:15 to 8:45 Warwick Pool — Chemistry check, equipment inspection, and adjustments
8:45 to 9:00 Travel to Old Town Pool
9:00 to 9:30 Old Town Pool — Chemistry check, equipment inspection, and immediate minor repairs
9:30 to 11:30 Maintenance Window — Additional work at any site including backwashing, cleaning baskets, chemical inventory, controller adjustments, troubleshooting, or documentation
PM Schedule:
5:30 to 6:00 Memorial Pool — Evening check: chemical balance, circulation, water clarity, and safety inspection
6:00 to 6:15 Travel to Warwick Pool
6:15 to 6:45 Warwick Pool — Chemistry check, circulation, equipment inspection, and minor adjustments
6:45 to 7:00 Travel to Old Town Pool
7:00 to 7:30 Old Town Pool — Evening check: finalize chemical adjustments, inspect equipment, and secure pump room
7:30 to 8:30 Maintenance Window — Additional tasks at any site including backwashing, cleaning baskets, troubleshooting, controller adjustments, or documentation
Please Note: Each site visit is 30–45 minutes, adjusted as needed based on chemistry or equipment issues. Travel time is included between pools. Mid-day tasks allow time for pump room work, maintenance, or paperwork.
Minimum & Additional Requirements
High School Diploma and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. First Aid training.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Pool Operator certification or ability to earn upon hire.
Experience working with multiple pools.
Experience with CAT controllers, circulation troubleshooting, and minor repairs.
Additional Requirements
Strong understanding of pool chemistry and water safety.
Experience with commercial pool systems, filtration components, and automated controllers.
Ability to work independently using sound judgement.
Strong communication skills, especially when reporting issues or prioritizing tasks.
Ability to troubleshoot equipment and resolve mechanical or chemical concerns quickly.
Ability to lift and move equipment and chemical containers safely.
Reliable transportation to visit all three pools daily.
Ability to follow strict safety procedures for chemicals and equipment
Notes
This position is subject to a successful drug and background screening.
The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.