Aquatics Program Director: Safe, Engaging Swim Programs

YMCA of South Hampton Roads; Franklin (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Membership benefits

Generous time off

Health benefits

Industry-leading retirement plan

Job summary

YMCA of South Hampton Roads seeks an Aquatics Director to develop, manage, and enhance high-quality aquatic programs while ensuring safety and enjoyment for members. You will oversee staff, training, budget responsibilities, and coordination with external partners to meet community needs.

The role requires strong leadership, program development expertise, and commitment to YMCA values. Expect active involvement in safety, certifications, and staff development.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 21 and ability to perform lifeguard duties.
• Certifications: CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, and Basic First Aid.
• Current YMCA Lifeguarding or Red Cross Lifeguarding with instructor level preferred; Lifeguard Instructor needed within 180 days.
• Current Swim Instructor Certification preferred, or obtained within 90 days.
• Current CPO or AFO certification preferred, or obtained within 60 days.
• 3–5 years of aquatics experience preferred; college degree preferred.
• Must maintain all required certifications and readiness for water-related emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Directs and supervises all aquatic program activities to meet community needs and YMCA objectives.
• Creates and schedules swim classes, rentals, water exercise, and family events in the pool.
• Models relationship-building and responds to member inquiries and complaints.
• Keeps program statistics, monitors participation, and evaluates effectiveness.
• Recruits, hires, trains, schedules, and supervises aquatic staff and volunteers.
• Ensures staff certifications are current and maintains emergency procedures training.
• Oversees lifeguarding, swim instruction, first aid and CPR training for staff.
• Participates in fundraising activities and supports special events.

Skills

Lifeguard leadership

Staff supervision

Communication skills

Safety awareness

Program development

Education

CPR for the Professional Rescuer

AED certification

First Aid certification

Lifeguard Instructor Certification

Swim Instructor Certification

CPO or AFO certification

Tools

Lifeguard Certification

Swim Instructor Certification

CPR/AED/First Aid training

Job description

YMCA of South Hampton Roads seeks an Aquatics Director to develop, manage, and enhance high-quality aquatic programs while ensuring safety and enjoyment for members. You will oversee staff, training, budget responsibilities, and coordination with external partners to meet community needs.

The role requires strong leadership, program development expertise, and commitment to YMCA values. Expect active involvement in safety, certifications, and staff development.