Aquatics Director

Riverdale YM-YWHA; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading community center in New York is seeking an Aquatics Director to develop and manage a comprehensive aquatics program. The role involves staff management, program operations, and ensuring safety and satisfaction for all participants. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in aquatics, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to excellent customer service. This full-time position offers competitive salary and benefits, including health insurance and fitness center membership.

Benefits

Membership to Fitness Center

Generous time-off policy

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Discounts on JCC programs

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of experience in the aquatics industry.
• Certifications: LGI, WSI, CPR, AED, and First Aid required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a year-round aquatics program.
• Hire, train, and manage aquatics staff.
• Teach group and private lessons.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Collaboration

Customer Service

Critical Thinking

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in sports, fitness, or a related field

Tools

CPR

AED

First Aid

LGI

WSI

Job description

Job Overview: The Aquatics Director is responsible for developing, operating, and supervising all aspects of the aquatics program at the Riverdale Y. This includes creating high-quality, safe, fun, and engaging aquatic experiences for members and participants. The role also involves building a collaborative team of aquatics professionals and working as part of the Membership Experience team, which includes the Membership, Fitness, and Sports departments.

Key Responsibilities include:

1. Aquatics Program Development:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive year-round aquatics program, including group lessons, private lessons, summer camps, and special events, aligned with agency priorities.
• Manage the aquatics program's annual budget within approved guidelines, in consultation with the supervisor and CFO, aiming to meet revenue goals.

Aquatics Staff Management:

• Hire, train, supervise, and manage all aquatics staff, ensuring safety, professionalism, and participant satisfaction.
• Develop and manage staff schedules for instructors and lifeguards to support various aquatics activities and collaborate with other departments.
• Train staff in emergency prevention, response, and reporting procedures.
• Oversee payroll submissions accurately and timely.

Program Operations:

• Teach group and private lessons as appropriate.
• Conduct training sessions in lifeguarding, WSI, CPR/AED, and first aid for staff and community members.
• Coordinate with the Facilities Director to maintain aquatics facilities in compliance with regulations and standards.
• Manage external rental contracts and communication with partners.
• Maintain and replenish aquatics equipment and supplies.
• Participate in agency-wide meetings and events, including weekly staff meetings, the Riverdale Run, and Open House.
• Ensure proper storage, cleanliness, organization, and replenishment of program materials and supplies.
• Work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and spend necessary time on-site to ensure optimal operation of the pool.

Qualities and Characteristics:

• High emotional intelligence and ability to relate to diverse age groups.
• Highly organized with sound judgment, initiative, and critical thinking skills.
• Results-driven with leadership and collaboration abilities.
• Understanding of a mission-driven business model.
• Commitment to excellent customer service, innovation, and creativity.
• Self-motivated, able to work independently.
• Enjoys hands-on, collaborative work environments.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Culturally competent in working with diverse backgrounds and identities.
• Strong leadership, motivation, communication, and staff management skills.

Qualifications:

• Minimum five years of experience in the aquatics industry; leadership experience preferred.
• Certifications: LGI, WSI, CPR, AED, and First Aid.
• Certified Pool Operator or ability to obtain certification within six months.
• Experience in the nonprofit sector preferred.
• Knowledge of Jewish holidays, traditions, and culture is a plus.
• Bachelor’s Degree in sports, fitness, or a related field preferred.

Salary & Benefits: $60,000-$70,000, commensurate with experience, including:

• Membership to our Fitness Center for individuals and families.
• Generous time-off policy.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Discounts on JCC programs such as summer camps, after-school, and preschool.

This is a full-time, in-person role, working Sunday through Thursday, with occasional evenings and holidays.

About The Riverdale YM-YWHA: The Riverdale Y is a 50,000 sq. ft. Jewish Community Center offering educational, recreational, cultural, and wellness programs for all ages. Facilities include an early childhood center, camps, afterschool programs, senior center, performing arts center, and a health & wellness center with cardio and free weight studios, group exercise classes, gymnasium, and swimming pool. The Y is rooted in Jewish values, celebrates diversity, and welcomes the entire community.