Aquatics Director

YMCA of Greater Cleveland; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Aquatics Director at YMCA of Greater Cleveland will lead and grow all aquatic programs in Cleveland, OH, directing swim lessons, water safety, and recreational swimming for diverse age groups. You will supervise lifeguards and instructors, coordinate schedules, and partner with other departments to engage the community.

Responsibilities include budget oversight, safety compliance, and continuous program improvement to enhance member satisfaction and outcomes.

Qualifications

• Strong aquatics program management skills with experience in aquatics operations and swim activities.
• Experience supervising staff such as instructors and lifeguards; ability to lead and develop a team.
• Solid knowledge of water safety standards, risk management, and CPR/First Aid certification is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and evaluate swim lessons and water safety programs for all ages.
• Oversee aquatic staff including instructors and lifeguards; manage scheduling and training.
• Ensure pool operations meet safety standards and regulatory requirements; monitor facilities daily.

Skills

Aquatics program mgmt

Staff supervision

Water safety

Budget & risk mgmt

Community outreach

Job description

Company Description

The YMCA of Greater Cleveland is a leading social service organization in Northeast Ohio, serving more than 86,000 members across six counties. Guided by Christian principles, the Y is committed to building a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all through inclusive and accessible programs. Its core areas of focus are youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, with services designed to strengthen individuals, families, and communities. Team members join a mission-driven association that values diversity, community engagement, and personal growth.

Role Description

The Aquatics Director is a full-time, on-site role based in Cleveland, OH, responsible for overseeing all aquatic programs and operations. This role plans, implements, and evaluates swim lessons, water safety programs, and recreational swimming activities for different age groups and skill levels. The Aquatics Director manages aquatics staff including swim instructors and lifeguards, oversees scheduling, training, and performance, and ensures that all pool operations meet safety standards and regulatory requirements. Daily responsibilities include monitoring pool conditions, coordinating program registrations, collaborating with other YMCA departments on community outreach and special events, and maintaining excellent member service and participant satisfaction. The Aquatics Director also plays a key role in budget management, risk management, and continuous improvement of aquatics offerings.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess strong aquatics program management skills, including experience with Aquatics operations and Swimming activities.


• Candidates should possess skills in Swim Instruction and Swim Lessons, with the ability to design and lead progressive, inclusive swim programs.


• Candidates should possess Lifeguarding skills and current or attainable lifeguard certification, with a solid understanding of water safety and risk management.


• Additional beneficial qualifications include prior supervisory experience, CPR/First Aid certification, and knowledge of local and national aquatics safety standards.


• Strong leadership, communication, and customer service skills, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a mission-driven, community-focused environment.


• Experience in youth development or recreational programming and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants.