Aquatic Programs Specialist

City of Hopewell, VA; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Hopewell, VA is seeking an Aquatics Program Specialist to lead and shape community aquatic programming. This role offers hands-on leadership, professional certifications, and the chance to impact local recreation and safety.

Ideal candidates are early-career professionals in recreation management or aquatics leadership. Responsibilities include supervising staff, coordinating swim lessons, and maintaining safe, welcoming aquatic environments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Lifeguard certification upon hire.
• Ability to obtain Water Safety Instructor and Lifeguard Instructor within six months of hire.
• Valid driver’s license in Virginia.

Responsibilities

• Monitor patrons and enforce safety rules to ensure a safe aquatic environment.
• Respond to emergencies with rescues, first aid, and CPR as needed.
• Lead 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 with the Aquatic Programs Supervisor.
• Maintain pool cleanliness, equipment, and water chemistry to meet health 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

Team Collaboration

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job 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.

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.

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.

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.