Aquatics Program Director: Lead Safety & Community Growth

YMCA of the Iowa Mississippi Valley; Iowa; On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability/F

FSA/HSA

YMCA Retirement Fund & 403b

Paid Time Off

Free YMCA membership

Discounts on programs

Child Care discount

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job summary

YMCA of the Iowa Mississippi Valley in LeClaire, IA seeks an Aquatics Director to lead daily operations, ensure pool safety and water quality, and guide staff development across lifeguards and instructors. The role emphasizes safety priority and SPARK leadership within a community-focused aquatic program.

You will recruit, train, and supervise aquatic staff, manage budgets and payroll, and work hands-on in programs at least half the time, fostering a welcoming environment and adherence to YMCA

Qualifications

• Experience leading staff and managing aquatic operations.
• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of aquatic safety, risk management, and emergency response.
• Ability to remain calm and exercise sound judgment in emergency situations.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily aquatic operations, pool safety, water quality, maintenance, and risk management.
• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, supervise, and develop lifeguards, swim instructors, coaches, and aquatic staff.
• Lead aquatic safety initiatives, emergency drills, staff in-services, and certification compliance.
• Teach and certify lifeguards and instructors in Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid.
• Develop and grow swim lessons and other aquatic programs that meet community needs.
• Manage staffing, scheduling, payroll, and expenses to support budget and program goals.
• Work hands-on in aquatic programs at least 50% of the time.
• Lead by example and model the YMCA mission, values, and SPARK Leadership framework.

Skills

Staff leadership

Aquatic operations

Safety & risk mgmt

Staff development

Communication

Emergency response

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

YMCA of the Iowa Mississippi Valley in LeClaire, IA seeks an Aquatics Director to lead daily operations, ensure pool safety and water quality, and guide staff development across lifeguards and instructors. The role emphasizes safety priority and SPARK leadership within a community-focused aquatic program.

You will recruit, train, and supervise aquatic staff, manage budgets and payroll, and work hands-on in programs at least half the time, fostering a welcoming environment and adherence to YMCA