Aquatics Director (Buda)

YMCA of the USA; Buda (TX); On-site; USD 48,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Benefits package

Professional development

Job summary

YMCA of the USA is seeking an Aquatics Director to lead all aquatics operations at an assigned center, including programming, safety, staffing, and member satisfaction. You will guide swim instructors, lifeguards, and front-line staff while promoting a culture of safety, service, accountability, and growth.

The role requires a bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience), 2–3 years of leadership in aquatics or related fields, and strong budgeting, data-driven improvement, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 2-3 years of leadership experience in aquatics or related field.
• Ability to recruit, coach, and develop leaders with accountability.
• Experience overseeing program operations, scheduling, safety compliance, and risk management.
• Knowledge of budgeting and financial management; monitor expenses.
• Experience using data to improve participant experiences and outcomes.
• Strong relationship-building with members, families, and partners.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Fundraising or grant-related experience preferred.
• Spanish bilingual preferred; certifications in CPR/First Aid, Lifeguarding, etc. or ability to obtain.
• Familiarity with aquatic management software; knowledge of safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aquatics operations at an assigned center, including programming and safety.
• Direct swim instructors, lifeguards, and front-line aquatics staff.
• Develop staff; foster accountability, growth, and belonging.
• Oversee program operations, scheduling, safety compliance, and risk management.
• Monitor budgets and financial performance to support department goals.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and use data to drive improvements.
• Cultivate relationships with members, families, and community partners.
• Support fundraising efforts, events, and grant initiatives.

Skills

Leadership experience

Team development

Safety compliance

Budgeting

Communication

Bilingual

Staff supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

MS Office

Excel

Word

Outlook

Job description

$2,000 SIGN-ON BONUS Join our team and start with an added incentive! This position is eligible for a $2,000 sign-on bonus. Eligibility requirements and bonus details will be shared during the interview process

Starting salary of $53,000 annually, with compensation commensurate with experience, education, and certifications.

The Aquatics Director is a key leader in advancing the YMCA’s mission through safe, high-quality, and impactful aquatic programs. This role leads all aquatics operations at an assigned center, including programming, safety, staffing, team development, and member satisfaction.

We are seeking a passionate, people-focused leader who excels at developing teams, strengthening programs, and creating exceptional member experiences. The Aquatics Director will lead swim instructors, lifeguards, and front-line aquatics staff while fostering a culture of safety, service, accountability, and growth.

As we continue to expand our impact across our community, we are seeking multiple Aquatics Directors who are ready to lead with purpose, develop people, elevate programs, and make a lasting difference in the communities we serve.

What You Bring To The Y

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Business Administration, Sports Management, Nonprofit Management, Human Services, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of leadership experience in aquatics, recreation, youth development, or a related field, including experience supervising and developing teams.
• Demonstrated ability to recruit, coach, develop, and retain high-performing leaders while fostering a culture of accountability, belonging, and continuous improvement.
• Experience overseeing program operations, scheduling, safety compliance, and risk management practices.
• Knowledge of budgeting, payroll administration, and financial management principles, with the ability to monitor expenses and support department financial goals.
• Experience evaluating program effectiveness and using data to improve participant experiences, operational efficiency, and program outcomes.
• Strong relationship-building skills with members, families, community partners, and fellow leaders.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing needs, and lead effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience supporting fundraising efforts, special events, community partnerships, or grant-related initiatives preferred.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is highly preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Current certifications in BLS (CPR-PRO), First Aid, Emergency Oxygen, Lifeguarding, and Swim Instruction.
• Lifeguard Instructor and Swim Instructor certifications, or the ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• Must obtain Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification within three months of hire.
• YMCA Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (YLGIT) and YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor Trainer (YSLIT) certifications preferred.
• Familiarity with aquatic management, scheduling, registration, and program management software preferred.
• Knowledge of aquatic safety standards, regulatory requirements, and compliance practices.

Physical Requirements

The Aquatics Director must be able to meet the physical demands of working in and around an aquatic environment. This includes the ability to walk, stand, sit, bend, and move freely throughout the facility, as well as respond quickly to emergencies, including entering the water and performing rescues when necessary. Clear hearing and verbal communication are essential for monitoring staff, responding to safety signals or distress calls, and giving directions in a potentially loud and echo-prone environment. The role also requires the ability to lift and/or move equipment or individuals weighing up to 50 pounds. Candidates must be comfortable working in wet and humid conditions for extended periods and may occasionally be exposed to varying weather conditions during outdoor activities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.