Lead - Aquatics

South Sound YMCA; Olympia (WA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

South Sound YMCA seeks an Aquatics Lead to oversee daily pool operations, enforce safety rules, and maintain a clean, chemically balanced pool environment.

You will supervise lifeguards and swim instructors, conduct safety checks, and ensure proper opening/closing procedures in a fast-paced aquatics setting. Certifications in Red Cross Lifeguarding with CPR/AED and LGI/CPO eligibility are required.

Qualifications

• Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid or equivalent required.
• Be able to pass lifeguard water tests.
• LGI certification or eligibility within 4–6 months.
• CPO certification or eligibility within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operation of the aquatic facility and enforce pool rules.
• Ensure patron safety and respond to incidents per YMCA policy.
• Maintain clean pool areas and properly balanced chemical levels.
• Train and supervise lifeguards and swim instructors.
• Represent the South Sound YMCA in a professional manner and follow opening/closing procedures.

Skills

Lifeguard certification

CPR/First Aid

Leadership

Communication

Safety awareness

Education

American Red Cross Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid

LGI (Lifeguard Instructor) certification or eligible within 4-6 months

CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certification or eligible within 6 months

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:The Aquatics Lead is responsible for the immediate operation of the aquatic facility and assuring the adherence to aquatic policies and procedures in the absence of the Director or Coordinator. The Lead is responsible for ensuring the safety of patrons in and around the pool area by: enforcing rules, maintaining a clean and organized pool area, and maintaining a chemically balanced pool. The Aquatics Lead promotes the mission and goals of the South Sound YMCA and the policies and procedures of the Aquatic Department.OUR CULTURE:Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become part of the Y family. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:ProgramModel safe, responsible, professional, and appropriate behavior.Enforce all pool rules and role-model said rules.Respond to any accidents or incidents according to YMCA policy.Ensure equipment is used properly and for the appropriate activities.Learn and use members’ names.Provide a friendly and courteous environment for YMCA members and guests.Wear appropriate uniform including shirt, whistle, nametag, guard tube, and first aid pack when working lifeguard shifts.Lifeguard pools or teach swim lessons during scheduled shifts.On-call for opening lifeguard shifts.Leadership/StaffEnsure the safety of aquatic staff and membersAssist Director/Coordinator in developing and delivering regular in-service trainings/swim instructor trainings.Enforce and assist staff in interpreting rules and policies for the facility.Ensure proper opening and closing procedures are performed.Ensure aquatics staff are representing the South Sound YMCA in a professional manner including uniform and interaction with members. Notify supervisors when needed.In coordination with supervisor, conduct regular safety checks and readiness drills on lifeguard staff.Assist in monitoring swim lesson program quality.Assist in training of lifeguards and swim instructors.FacilityKeep pool areas clean and organized.Report any safety hazards to Aquatic Management.Submit maintenance requests for repairs immediately.Perform chemical tests as scheduled and record results as directed.AdministrationHelp maintain departmental records concerning pool operation and chemistry, as well as facility and equipment management.Maintain accurate records of all chemicals test results and bather load count sheets.Report needs for supplies to Aquatic Management staff.All other duties as assignedLEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:Critical Thinking & Decision MakingEngaging CommunityProgram/Project ManagementTo serve in this position, the incumbent must be at least 18 years of age and have appropriate employment experience to successfully carry out job responsibilities. Education experience must include: current American Red Cross Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid or equivalent.Successfully pass lifeguard water test.Must be able to remain alert including sitting or standing for extended periods in a warm environment.Ability to clearly hear noises adequately to distinguish distress signals.Strong leadership and communication skills required.Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments ofthe community.Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.Ability to see clearly to identify hazards and swimmers in distress.Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue as outlined in training.Ability to communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.Upon hire:South Sound YMCA’s - New Employee Orientation must be obtained within 45 days of hire.Possess American Red Cross LGI (Lifeguard Instructor) certification or obtain certification within 4 to 6 months of hire date and be available to teach Lifeguard certification classes on a regular basis.Possess current CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certification or obtain within 6 months of hire date.WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions and to supervise program activities in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor locations (depending upon the programs).