Aquatics Director (Northwest)
YMCA of the USA
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
The Greater Austin YMCA is seeking an Aquatics Director to lead all aquatic operations and programs, drive safety, quality, and growth, and build a high-performing team through coaching and staffing. This role collaborates with members, families, and community partners to expand programming and impact for children and the broader community.
The position requires strong budgeting, safety compliance, and data-driven program improvements, with a focus on excellence and accountability across the
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in recreation, nonprofit or related field.
- 2–3 years of leadership experience in aquatics or related area with team supervision.
- Experience hiring, coaching, and developing staff while driving accountability and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities
- Oversee all aquatic operations and programs to ensure safety, quality and growth.
- Lead staffing, coaching, scheduling, and performance management of the aquatics team.
- Develop partnerships with members, families and community groups to expand programs.
- Manage department budget, expenses and financial goals with accuracy.
- Ensure compliance with safety standards, certifications and regulatory requirements.
- Monitor program effectiveness, using data to improve participant experiences and outcomes.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
At the heart of the Y’s mission is the opportunity to create meaningful experiences that strengthen individuals, families, and the community. The Aquatics Director will provide leadership for all aquatic operations and programs, ensuring an exceptional experience for members while driving safety, quality, innovation, and growth. This leader will build and develop a high-performing team through effective coaching, intentional staffing, and strong operational leadership. By cultivating meaningful community partnerships and expanding impactful programming for children, families, and the broader community, the Aquatics Director will help position the Y’s aquatics programs for continued excellence and long-term success.
- 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.
- Fosters a culture that builds trust and treats all team members and colleagues with respect; constructively and immediately deals with conflict; gains commitment and provides clarity; holds team members accountable and cultivates peer accountability; and achieves results to meet strategic and operational goals.
- Models inclusive leadership behaviors and embraces all dimensions of diversity – building strong teams that apply their diverse skills and perspectives to our mission.
- Responsible for hiring, coaching, and managing all direct reports and ensuring alignment with association people practices for all positions within their organizational structure.
- Responsible for successful metrics and goals to meet strategic goals and objectives.
- Implements a goal-based leadership approach and ensures the development department is actively working towards supporting organizational-level objectives and key results.
- Conducts check-ins with direct reports to ensure progress with goals, providing ongoing coaching and feedback, and discussing development opportunities.
- Spearhead the creation and rollout of engaging aquatics programs that address community needs and enhance member satisfaction. Implement cutting-edge initiatives to keep programming fresh and impactful.
- Continuously evaluate program effectiveness and make data-driven improvements to ensure high engagement and positive outcomes.
- Strategically recruit and develop a high-performing aquatics team. Provide ongoing mentorship and training to ensure staff are experts in their roles and aligned with organizational goals.
- Recognize team’s achievements and address areas for improvement, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
- Validate and manage department payroll with precision, ensuring timely and accurate compensation.
- Lead comprehensive safety and compliance audits, ensuring all staff certifications are up-to-date and regulatory standards are met.
- Oversee the accuracy and currency of aquatics information across all platforms, enhancing member access and engagement.
- Respond swiftly to member and community inquiries, resolving issues effectively to boost member satisfaction and build strong relationships.
- Proactively engage with members through various communication channels to enhance their experience and retention.
- Strategically communicate aquatic programming and events through social media, digital platforms, and internal channels, ensuring broad visibility and impact.
- Oversee and manage the budget for aquatics programs, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively and expenses are monitored.
- Identify and address potential risks associated with aquatics operations, ensuring safety protocols are followed and mitigating any risks to maintain a secure environment.
- Develop and manage staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all aquatics programs and facilities.
- Address any scheduling conflicts and ensure that shifts are filled to maintain smooth operation.
- Oversee and manage the budget for aquatics programs, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively and expenses are monitored.
- Create a positive, motivating work environment and lead by example as Cause Driven Leader on Duty or Director on Duty.
- Assist in-center fundraising activities and special events, ensuring seamless execution and effective promotion.
- Drive team engagement and effectiveness, setting high standards for service and leadership.
- Represent the aquatics department on the Impact Team and contribute to strategic planning and decision-making.
- Act as the liaison for key programs such as Project SAFE, ensuring successful implementation and impact.
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to the YMCA’s mission, integrating these values into daily operations and strategic efforts.
- Perform additional tasks as needed to support the overall operations and goals of the aquatics department and the YMCA.
The role requires frequent movement, including standing for extended periods, walking, and lifting. You need to effectively monitor and oversee pool activities from various vista points, which requires physical agility and alertness. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
5807 McNeil Drive, Austin, Texas 78729, United States
The Greater Austin YMCA is a dynamic force elevating quality of life in Greater Austin by boldly expanding access for all children, adults, families and seniors in our rapidly growing community. For nearly 75 years, the Greater Austin YMCA has evolved to address each community's greatest needs, touching every phase of life and nurturing happier, healthier people, a stronger community and a better world.
We believe everyone deserves access to high-quality programs that keep our community strong. As a proud 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we provide financial assistance to expand access so community members can learn, grow, and thrive through our early learning academies, fitness and wellness centers, youth programs, workforce development, adult programming, mental health counseling, and more.
Each year, the Y serves nearly 140,000 people across Travis and Hays counties through seven fitness and wellness centers, more than 55 licensed campuses in four school districts, two YMCA Tomorrow Academy™ locations, and Camp Moody, our outdoor Adventure camp.
Globally, the YMCA is one of the oldest and largest youth-serving organizations in the world, united by our commitment to a better future -- for all.
The organization has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.
The Greater Austin YMCA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Greater Austin YMCA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which we have employees. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Our mission isn't just a statement--it's a guiding force that shapes our actions every day. Rooted in our unwavering commitment to serving our community and esteemed team members, our mission is a true way of life. We're passionate about fostering health and wellness for all, and we're truly excited to introduce the following comprehensive benefits package that has been thoughtfully designed to prioritize your well-being.
- Health Insurance: We provide comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, to ensure the well-being of our employees.
- Retirement Savings Plan: We offer a 12% employer-funded retirement plan upon meeting eligibility, empowering employees to plan for their future.
- Paid Time Off: Work-life integration is important to us, which is why we provide up to 48 days of paid time off over vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
- Additional Perks: Free household membership to facilities operated by the Greater Austin YMCA, which is worth $1,200+ annually.
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