Aquatics Program Director - Lead Safe Experiences

YMCA of the USA; Colorado Springs (CO); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region seeks an Association Aquatics Director to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all aquatics programs across branches. You will recruit, train, and evaluate staff, ensure safety and compliance, and collaborate with branch leadership to standardize procedures and enhance community impact.

Responsibilities include developing budgets, implementing risk management practices, and driving program growth while maintaining high‑quality experiences for

Qualifications

• Minimum age 21 with a high school diploma or equivalent; bachelor's degree preferred.
• Five+ years of leadership experience in aquatics, recreation, or related field; staff leadership and program oversight noted.
• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, technology, and problem-solving skills.
• Required certifications: CPO, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen Administration, YMCA Lifeguard/Swim Lesson Instructor; Instructor Trainer preferred.
• Completion of YMCA required training and ability to work a flexible schedule including mornings, evenings, weekends, and travel between locations.

Responsibilities

• Provide association-wide leadership and supervision for aquatics operations across branches.
• Promote high-quality programs, member engagement, and exceptional experiences for members and families.
• Develop and evaluate standards, safety procedures, emergency action plans, and risk management in line with regulations.
• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and develop aquatics staff with accountability and customer service focus.
• Develop and manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and support sustainable program growth.
• Plan, implement, evaluate, and improve aquatics programs to meet community needs and YMCA priorities.
• Ensure staff maintain certifications and participate in trainings, drills, and professional development.
• Build relationships with branch leadership, schools, community organizations, and partners.
• Respond to member concerns and maintain a welcoming, inclusive culture.
• Support marketing, fundraising, events, and association projects; travel between locations as needed.
• Lead branch fundraising efforts for Annual Support Campaign and financial assistance initiatives.
• Maintain safety and abuse risk management, reporting, and compliance across all operations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Technology

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

CPO certification

CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer

First Aid

Emergency Oxygen Administration

YMCA Lifeguard

YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor

YMCA Instructor Trainer

Job description

YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region seeks an Association Aquatics Director to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all aquatics programs across branches. You will recruit, train, and evaluate staff, ensure safety and compliance, and collaborate with branch leadership to standardize procedures and enhance community impact.

Responsibilities include developing budgets, implementing risk management practices, and driving program growth while maintaining high‑quality experiences for