Aquatics Director

Join the team of the Jamestown Area YMCA, located in beautiful Western New York.

Job Description

This position supports the work of the Jamestown Area YMCA, a leading nonprofit charitable organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

The Aquatics Director provides strategic and day-to-day leadership for all aquatics programs and facilities, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality programming, staff development, and an exceptional member experience. This role oversees swim lessons, lifeguarding, aquatic fitness, swim team activities, and community-based water safety initiatives, while ensuring compliance with all YMCA, local, state, and federal aquatic safety standards.

The Aquatics Director also manages external aquatics service contracts, coordinating and overseeing lifeguard staffing for local schools and community partners. This position plays a key role in advancing member engagement, retention, and community impact through aquatics programming and partnerships.

Qualifications

REQUIRED

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in aquatics programming, lifeguarding, swim instruction, or aquatic facility operations.
• Current lifeguard, swim instructor, or other nationally recognized aquatics certification.
• CPR/AED/First Aid certification (or lifeguard-level equivalent) within 90 days of hire.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build authentic relationships.
• Ability to learn and use YMCA business systems (e.g., DAXKO, Paylocity, Office Suite).
• Completion of required YMCA safety and compliance training.
  
  

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation, sports management, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• YMCA or ARC Lifeguard Instructor certification.
• Experience managing small to mid-sized aquatic facilities or teams.
• Advanced certifications such as YMCA Aquatic Leadership, Certified Pool Operator (CPO), or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO).
• Experience with budgeting, staff supervision, and regulatory compliance.
  
  

Essential Functions

Program & Facility Operations

• Plan, develop, schedule, and evaluate all aquatic programs including swim lessons, lifeguarding, CPR/First Aid courses, aquatic fitness, swim team, and special aquatic events.
• Ensure all programs meet YMCA standards for safety, quality, and member engagement.
• Oversee daily operation of aquatic facilities, including pool schedules, readiness, water quality, chemical handling, maintenance coordination, and facility security.
• Maintain accurate records related to pool operations, chemicals, maintenance, and safety compliance.
  
  

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all YMCA, Y-USA, local, state, and federal aquatic safety regulations.
• Maintain properly stocked first aid kits, AEDs, and rescue equipment.
• Lead or coordinate lifeguard, swim instructor, CPR, and First Aid training as required.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and ensure staff readiness through regular in-service training.
  
  

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, hire, train, certify, schedule, supervise, and evaluate aquatics staff and volunteers.
• Ensure all lifeguards and instructors maintain required certifications.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and accountable team culture focused on safety and service excellence.
• Develop staff training plans and support career growth within the YMCA.
  
  

Member Experience & Engagement

• Create a welcoming, member-centered aquatic environment that promotes connection, inclusion, and retention.
• Build authentic relationships with members and families; address questions and concerns related to aquatics programming and water safety.
• Model YMCA values and relationship-building behaviors for staff.
  
  

Financial & Contract Management

• Develop and manage the aquatics department budget, including revenue generation, expense control, and financial reporting.
• Manage contracts to supply certified lifeguards for local schools and community organizations.
• Ensure contract compliance, quality staffing, and strong partner relationships.
  
  

Community Engagement & Mission Advancement

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with schools, community organizations, and partners.
• Promote water safety education and community-based aquatic initiatives.
• Serve as staff liaison for the YMCA Annual Campaign and support fundraising and philanthropy efforts.
• Represent the YMCA positively in the community and advance the organization’s mission in all programming.
  
  

Leadership & Administration

• Serve as a collaborative member of the branch leadership team.
• Act as Leader on Duty (LOD) on a scheduled basis, including evenings and occasional weekends.
• Complete all required trainings and certifications.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Finance and Operations and senior leadership.
  
  

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

• Mission Advancement – Demonstrates YMCA values, supports community impact, and advances philanthropy.
• Collaboration – Builds strong relationships across diverse backgrounds; communicates effectively and supports team development.
• Operational Effectiveness – Exercises sound judgment, manages resources responsibly, and drives continuous improvement.
• Personal Growth – Pursues ongoing professional development and adapts to change with resilience and self-awareness.
  
  

Required Certifications

• Current lifeguard, swim instructor, or other nationally recognized aquatics certification.
• CPR/AED/First Aid certification (or lifeguard-level equivalent) within 90 days of hire.
• YMCA or ARC Lifeguard Instructor certification.