Aquatics Manager

University of New Mexico; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 29,067 - 41,066; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Educational benefits

Flexible work hours

Job summary

A local university in Albuquerque is seeking an Aquatic Manager to oversee operations of its aquatic complex. Responsibilities include managing daily operations, staff oversight, and program development while ensuring regulatory compliance with safety standards. Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and relevant certifications, with strong leadership and communication skills. The position offers hourly pay between $21.10 and $29.81 along with various employee benefits.

Qualifications

• Current Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) certification.
• Experience managing aquatic facilities.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of aquatic facilities.
• Manage staff of lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors.
• Coordinate recreational programs and schedules.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of NCAA standards

Ability to work evenings and weekends

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Position Summary

The University of New Mexico Recreational Services is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Aquatic Manager to oversee the comprehensive operations of our aquatic complex, which includes the Olympic Pool (with 1m and 3m springboards), Therapy Pool, and a 6-lane 25‑yard auxiliary pool. This position is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of all aquatic facilities, providing exceptional service to a diverse user base, including the UNM Women’s Swim and Dive Team, College of Education Learn to Swim program, and the general UNM community. The Aquatic Manager will lead a team of lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors, manage the learn‑to‑swim program, and maintain a facility compliant with NCAA and NMED standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Facility Management

• Oversee the daily operations of three aquatic facilities, ensuring a safe and clean environment for all users.
• Maintain proper water chemistry, filtration, and mechanical systems, working collaboratively with the University’s Facility Maintenance Department.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal aquatic codes and regulations.
• Manage custodial operations within the aquatic complex.
• Maintain a facility compliant with NCAA and New Mexico Environmental Department, Swimming Pool Division standards.

Staff Management and Development

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors.
• Develop and implement comprehensive training programs, including regular in‑service training and skills assessments.
• Provide continuous education and testing for lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors to maintain certifications.
• Schedule and manage staff to ensure adequate coverage for all pool activities.

Program Management

• Manage and develop the Recreational Services Learn to Swim program.
• Coordinate and support the UNM Women’s Swim and Dive Team, ensuring compliance with NCAA rules and regulations.
• Schedule and manage open recreation hours for UNM students, faculty, and staff.
• Coordinate activities for NCAA Division 1 Swim and Dive team.
• Knowledge of hosting NCAA and USA Swimming swim meets.

Safety and Risk Management

• Enforce all pool rules and regulations to ensure patron safety.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and maintain accurate records.
• Respond to emergencies and administer first aid/CPR as needed.
• Maintain a comprehensive risk management plan.

Instruction and Certification

• Serve as a licensed and certified American Red Cross instructor, conducting courses in Lifeguarding, First Aid, CPR, AED, Oxygen Administration, and other required certifications.
• Maintain current certifications and stay up‑to‑date on American Red Cross standards.

Administrative Duties

• Develop and manage the aquatic budget.
• Maintain accurate records of pool operations, staff certifications, and program participation.
• Prepare reports and presentations as needed.
• Able to work weekends and a flex schedule.

Required Qualifications

• Current Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) certification.
• Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor certification.
• Current American Red Cross Instructor certifications in First Aid, CPR, AED, and Oxygen Administration.
• Extensive knowledge of NCAA and NMED aquatic safety standards, codes, and regulations.
• Proven experience in managing aquatic facilities and staff.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Knowledge of hosting NCAA and USA Swimming swim meets.

Conditions of Employment

• Successful candidate must submit to post‑offer, pre‑employment physical examination and medical history check.
• Must maintain certification status.
• Must pass a pre‑employment criminal background check.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Certification/Licensure:

• American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor Certification
• American Red Cross Professional Rescuer CPR/AED Instructor Certification
• National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool Operator Certification

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a university or collegiate aquatic environment.
• Experience managing a learn‑to‑swim program.
• Experience working with NCAA Division 1 athletes.
• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, or a related field preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Campus: Main – Albuquerque, NM
• Department: Recreational Services (823A)
• Employment Type: Staff
• Staff Type: Regular – Full‑Time
• Status: Non‑Exempt
• Pay: Hourly $21.10–$29.81
• Benefits Eligible: This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs.

Veteran Preference Program

Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

Background Check

The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre‑employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

Application Instructions

Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application. Please submit a Cover Letter, Resume/UNMJobs application and any First Aid, CPR and AED Certifications.