Aquatic Programs Specialist

Hopewell; Hopewell (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid certifications

Professional development

Leadership pathways

Public service impact

Job summary

Hopewell is seeking an Aquatics Program Specialist to lead and support a range of aquatic programs, from swim lessons to lifeguard training. This role offers hands-on leadership, opportunities for professional certifications, and a chance to shape local aquatic programming.

Ideal for early career professionals in recreation management, public service, or aquatics leadership, with a pathway to supervisory roles through collaborative, safety‑focused teamwork.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Interest in leadership, teaching, and program development.
• Ability to stay calm and decisive in high pressure situations.

Responsibilities

• Ensure a safe, welcoming, and engaging aquatic environment by monitoring patrons and enforcing safety rules.
• Respond confidently to emergencies, performing rescues, first aid, and CPR as needed.
• Lead and support swim lessons, water safety classes, aquatic fitness programs, and lifeguard training.
• Assist with scheduling pool operations, programs, and group reservations.
• Support staff training, mentoring, and daily operations in collaboration with the Aquatic Programs Supervisor.
• Maintain pool cleanliness, equipment, and water chemistry to meet health and safety standards.
• Step into a leadership role during the supervisor’s absence.
• Support special events, community programs, and promotional efforts.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Leadership

Teaching / program development

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Description

Are you passionate about aquatics, leadership, and making a real impact in your community? We are seeking an Aquatics Program Specialist who wants more than a lifeguard stand this role offers hands‑on leadership experience, professional certifications, and the opportunity to help shape aquatic programming.

Description

Are you passionate about aquatics, leadership, and making a real impact in your community? We are seeking an Aquatics Program Specialist who wants more than a lifeguard stand this role offers hands‑on leadership experience, professional certifications, and the opportunity to help shape aquatic programming.

This position is ideal for an early career professional interested in recreation management, public service, fitness, or aquatics leadership.

Examples of Duties

What You Will Do

• Ensure a safe, welcoming, and engaging aquatic environment by monitoring patrons and enforcing safety rules.
• Respond confidently to emergencies, performing rescues, first aid, and CPR as needed.
• Lead and support swim lessons, water safety classes, aquatic fitness programs, and lifeguard training.
• Assist with scheduling pool operations, programs, and group reservations.
• Support staff training, mentoring, and daily operations in collaboration with the Aquatic Programs Supervisor.
• Maintain pool cleanliness, equipment, and water chemistry to meet health and safety standards.
• Step into a leadership role during the supervisor’s absence.
• Support special events, community programs, and promotional efforts.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Paid professional certifications and continuing education.
• Clear pathway toward supervisory and management roles.
• Leadership experience in a public sector environment.
• Opportunity to design and support innovative aquatic programs.
• Collaborative team culture focused on safety, service, and growth.

Typical Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Licenses And/or Certifications

• Valid driver’s license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Lifeguard certification upon hire.
• Ability to obtain Water Safety Instructor certification and Lifeguard Instructor certification within six months of hire.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Interest in leadership, teaching, and program development.
• Ability to stay calm and decisive in high pressure situations.
• Comfortable working as part of a team and leading when needed.

Supplemental Information

Work Environment

• Work is primarily performed indoors, with exposure to indoor aquatic environments with varying temperatures and noise levels.

Essential Physical Activities

• Ability to perform rescues and assist patrons of varying abilities.
• Frequent standing, walking, lifting, reaching, and swimming.

DISCLAIMER

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

NA

01

Are you at least 18 years of age?

• Yes
• No

02

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States of America?

• Yes
• No

03

Do you currently possess a valid driver's license in the Commonwealth of Virginia? Or are you able to obtain one upon hire?

• Yes
• No

04

Are you able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by aquatic operations?

• Yes
• No

05

Do you currently hold a valid Lifeguard certification (including CPR/AED and First Aid)?

• Yes
• No

06

Are you willing and able to obtain the Water Safety Instructor and Lifeguard Instructor certifications within six months of hire, if required?

• Yes
• No

07

Have you previously worked in an aquatic environment (pool, waterpark, beach, or similar)?

• No experience
• Less than 1 year of experience
• 1 to 3 years of experience
• More than 3 years of experience

08

This position requires performing water rescues, assisting patrons of varying abilities, and responding to emergencies. Are you able to meet these physical requirements, with or without reasonable accommodations?

• Yes
• No
• Required Question