Aquatics Program Specialist

Virginia Recreation and Park Society; Hopewell (VA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Virginia Recreation and Park Society is seeking an Aquatics Program Specialist to lead safe and engaging aquatic programs, supervise youth and community classes, and coordinate pool reservations. This role provides hands-on leadership, opportunities for professional certifications, and a clear path toward supervisory positions in a public-service setting.

A strong communicator with a service mindset will thrive here.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Valid driver's license in Virginia; Lifeguard certification required on hire.
• Ability to obtain WSI and Lifeguard Instructor certifications within six months.

Responsibilities

• Monitor patrons and enforce safety rules to maintain a safe aquatic environment.
• Respond to emergencies with rescues, first aid, and CPR as needed.
• Lead and support swim lessons, water safety classes, and aquatic fitness programs.
• Assist with scheduling pool operations, programs, and group reservations.
• Support staff training, mentoring, and daily operations with the supervisor.
• Maintain pool cleanliness, equipment, and water chemistry to health standards.
• Step into a leadership role during the supervisor's absence.
• Support special events, community programs, and promotional efforts.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Customer service

Program development

Calm under pressure

Education

High school diploma or GED

Lifeguard certification

Water Safety Instructor certification

Lifeguard Instructor certification

Job description

Salary: $38,785.66 - $41,604.58 Annually

Application Deadline: N/A

Aquatics

Are you passionate about aquatics, leadership, and making a real impact in your community? We are seeking an Aquatics Program Specialist who wants more than a lifeguard stand this role offers hands-on leadership experience, professional certifications, and the opportunity to help shape aquatic programming.

This position is ideal for an early career professional interested in recreation management, public service, fitness, or aquatics leadership.

Examples of Duties

What You Will Do

Ensure a safe, welcoming, and engaging aquatic environment by monitoring patrons and enforcing safety rules.

Respond confidently to emergencies, performing rescues, first aid, and CPR as needed.

Lead and support swim lessons, water safety classes, aquatic fitness programs, and lifeguard training.

Assist with scheduling pool operations, programs, and group reservations.

Support staff training, mentoring, and daily operations in collaboration with the Aquatic Programs Supervisor.

Maintain pool cleanliness, equipment, and water chemistry to meet health and safety standards.

Step into a leadership role during the supervisor's absence.

Support special events, community programs, and promotional efforts.

Why This Role Stands Out

Paid professional certifications and continuing education.

Clear pathway toward supervisory and management roles.

Leadership experience in a public sector environment.

Opportunity to design and support innovative aquatic programs.

Collaborative team culture focused on safety, service, and growth.

Typical Qualifications

MinimumEducation and Experience:

High school diploma or GED (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Licenses and/or Certifications:

Valid driver's license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Lifeguard certification upon hire.

Ability to obtain Water Safety Instructor certification and Lifeguard Instructor certification within six months of hire.

Skills & Abilities:

Strong communication and customer service skills.

Interest in leadership, teaching, and program development.

Ability to stay calm and decisive in high pressure situations.

• Comfortable working as part of a team and leading when needed.

Supplemental Information

Work is primarily performed indoors, with exposure to indoor aquatic environments with varying temperatures and noise levels.

Ability to perform rescues and assist patrons of varying abilities.

• Frequent standing, walking, lifting, reaching, and swimming.

WorkEnvironment:

• Work is primarily performed indoors, with exposure to indoor aquatic environments with varying temperatures and noise levels.

EssentialPhysicalActivities:

• Ability to perform rescues and assist patrons of varying abilities.
• Frequent standing, walking, lifting, reaching, and swimming.

DISCLAIMER: The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.