Aquatics Director

Aquatics Director leads YMCA pool operations, staff, and programs, ensuring safe, high-quality services aligned with the Y mission.

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Aquatics Director is responsible for the overall development, coordination, and

administration of all YMCA pool operations and aquatics programming. This includes

program planning, staff supervision, scheduling, registration management, community

engagement, and program evaluation.

This position also oversees the daily operation and maintenance of the Helena Family

YMCA Pool. The ideal candidate will hold a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) License or

be willing to obtain it upon hire.

The Director ensures all programs are highquality, missiondriven, and aligned with the

YMCA’s focus on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Essental Functions

• Plan, implement, and evaluate all aquatics operations and programs, including swimming lessons, youth swim teams, and aquatic fitness.
• Oversee and manage seasonal and year-round program schedules.
• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise parttime aquatics staff including lifeguards and swim instructors.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets for aquatics operations.
• Ensure all aquatics programs and facilities comply with YMCA policies, industry safety standards, and applicable licensing or certification requirements.
• Maintain proactive communication with parents, participants, members, and staff; address and resolve concerns or complaints.
• Monitor registration, attendance, and evaluation data to assess program impact and implement improvements.
• Collaborate with the Marketing team to promote aquatics programs through social media, flyers, and community outreach.
• Coordinate with facility and maintenance teams to ensure the pool and surrounding areas are clean, safe, and functional.
• Represent the YMCA in community partnerships, coalitions, and aquatic-related collaborations.
• Obtain/Maintenance Certified Pool Operator License
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Responsibilities:
• Test and adjust pool chemicals to maintain proper water balance, including disinfection, pH, alkalinity, and clarity.
• Ensure water consistently meets all safety and sanitation standards.
• Inspect, operate, and perform preventive maintenance on pool equipment including pumps, filters, heaters, and chemical feeders.
• Complete minor repairs and respond to equipment failures, contamination issues, and mechanical emergencies.
• Brush, vacuum, and clean pool surfaces, tiles, and decks to maintain cleanliness and prevent algae growth.
• Clean filters, skimmer baskets, deck drains, and related components.
• Maintain inventory of chemicals, tools, and maintenance supplies.
• Ensure all pool operations comply with local, state, and federal health and safety regulations.
• Implement risk management practices and maintain required safety equipment and signage.
• Maintain accurate documentation of chemical readings, maintenance tasks, repairs, and inventory.
• Prepare logs and reports as required by regulatory agencies and YMCA policies.
  

Qualifications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certified Pool Operator License or be willing to obtain certification
• YMCA Lifeguard Certification
• YMCA Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) Certification
• YMCA Swim Instructor or Swim Instructor Trainer (SIT) certification
• CPR/AED and First Aid Instructor certification
• Previous experience supervising aquatics staff or leading a pool facility
• Experience managing pool mechanical systems, pumps, filtration, and water chemistry
• Two or more years of experience in aquatics programming, water safety, coaching, or facility management
• Experience working within a YMCA or similar nonprofit or community-based organization
• Strong customer service and conflict-resolution skills
• Budgeting or program management experience
• Knowledge of risk management, emergency procedures, and safety protocols
• Ability to train staff in emergency response and aquatics safety practices
• Experience with scheduling software or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
  
  

Essential Functions

REQUIRED SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE:

• Technical Expertise-Strong knowledge of pool hydraulics, mechanics, water chemistry, and safe chemical handling.
• Problem-Solving-Ability to troubleshoot and address issues with equipment and water quality to prevent hazards and closures.
• Attention to Detail-Critical for noticing subtle changes in water or equipment that could indicate a problem.
• Communication Skills-Ability to address customer concerns and interact with staff and the public.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and remain active on the pool deck for extended periods of time (up to 8 hours).
• Ability to lift, move, or carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform tasks that require bending, kneeling, reaching, and climbing (e.g., accessing equipment rooms, handling pool covers, or cleaning equipment).
• Ability to enter and exit the pool safely and perform water rescues if necessary.
• Ability to swim at a proficient level consistent with aquatics safety standards.
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and safety hazards, including distressed swimmers.
• Ability to work in hot, humid, and chlorinated environments for extended periods.
• Ability to operate mechanical and chemical pool systems safely (requires manual dexterity and mobility).
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Ability to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended hours during peak program seasons as required.