Aquatics Director: Lead Safe, Engaging Programs

YMCA of Portsmouth; Franklin (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Membership

Generous time off

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Job summary

YMCA of South Hampton Roads in Virginia seeks an Aquatics Director to develop, organize, and oversee high‑quality YMCA aquatic programs ensuring safety, fun, and community engagement.

Reporting to the Executive leadership, you will manage staff, budgets, and partnerships while expanding swim classes, water exercise, and family events; strong certifications and 3–5 years in aquatics are preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 21.
• Certifications: CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, Basic First Aid.
• Current YMCA Lifeguarding or Red Cross Lifeguarding certifications (instructor level preferred).
• Must obtain YMCA Lifeguard Instructor within 180 days of hire.
• Current Swim Instructor Certification preferred, or obtained within 90 days of hire.
• Current CPO or AFO certification preferred, or obtained within 60 days of hire.
• 3–5 years of experience in aquatics; supervisory experience required.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe aquatic operation with trained staff.
• Grow aquatics programming: Swim Lessons and Family Programs.
• Manage operations: Certifications, Audits, In‑Services, Chemical Logs.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise aquatic personnel and volunteers.
• Ensure pool maintenance and safety in partnership with center leadership.
• Lead budgeting and financial performance for the aquatics department.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Team leadership

Strong communication

Emergency response readiness

Education

CPR for the Professional Rescuer

AED Certification

Basic First Aid Certification

YMCA Lifeguard Instructor Certification (within 180 days)

Swim Instructor Certification (within 90 days)

CPO or AFO certification (within 60 days)

College degree in a relevant field

Job description

YMCA of South Hampton Roads in Virginia seeks an Aquatics Director to develop, organize, and oversee high‑quality YMCA aquatic programs ensuring safety, fun, and community engagement.

Reporting to the Executive leadership, you will manage staff, budgets, and partnerships while expanding swim classes, water exercise, and family events; strong certifications and 3–5 years in aquatics are preferred.