Aquatics Program Director: Impact Leader & Safety Champion

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

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