Program Director - Aquatics

YMCA of the USA; Santa Monica (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of the USA is seeking an Aquatic Director to oversee the safe development, management, and daily operations of the aquatic center. You will lead lifeguards, instructors, and aquatic staff, ensuring top safety standards and a positive member experience.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree and proven leadership in aquatics or nonprofit operations, with strong skills in budgeting, communication, and program development. You will collaborate across departments to drive growth and excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Two+ years of leadership experience in aquatics, recreation, sports, nonprofit operations, or related field.
• Experience supervising lifeguards, instructors, coaches, or aquatic personnel preferred.
• Demonstrated success managing staff, budgets, scheduling, customer service, and program growth.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and hold staff accountable through coaching and performance management.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic operations, lifeguarding, water safety, emergency procedures, pool chemistry, and risk management.
• Strong financial, operational, and organizational skills to manage budgets, schedules, staffing, and departmental priorities.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with members, participants, families, volunteers, staff, schools, and community partners.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for using performance metrics to inform decisions.

Responsibilities

• Oversee safe development, management, and supervision of the aquatic center and daily operations.
• Lead staffing, scheduling, training, and performance reviews for lifeguards, instructors, and aquatic personnel.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, pool chemistry, and risk management per YMCA policies.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for members, participants, and guests.
• Collaborate with departments and external partners to support program growth and operational efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Budgets

Customer service

Program growth

Coaching

Performance management

Communication

Collaboration

Analytical thinking

MS Office

Registration systems

Scheduling software

AI in operations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Sports Management, Exercise Science, Physical Education, Education, Business, or related field

Tools

Registration systems

Scheduling software

Job description

Under the direction of the COO, the Aquatic Director is responsible for the safe development, management, and supervision of the aquatic center and any assignment of tasks related to the center's daily operation in accordance with the mission and policies set forth by the Association. This position is responsible for ensuring a safe, quality experience for all members, program participants, and guests, including creating a positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals and adheres to strong safety practices per YMCA policies and procedures.,

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Sports Management, Exercise Science, Physical Education, Education, Business, or a related field required.
• Two or more years of progressively responsible leadership experience in aquatics, recreation, sports, nonprofit operations, or a related field.
• Experience supervising lifeguards, instructors, coaches, or aquatic personnel preferred.
• Demonstrated success managing staff, budgets, scheduling, customer service, and program growth.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and hold staff accountable through coaching, recognition, and performance management.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic operations, lifeguarding, water safety, emergency procedures, pool chemistry, and risk management.
• Strong financial, operational, and organizational skills with the ability to manage budgets, schedules, staffing, and departmental priorities.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with members, participants, families, volunteers, staff, schools, and community partners.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to use performance metrics to inform decisions and improve operations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, registration systems, scheduling software, and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to improve communication, efficiency, and decision-making.

Certifications Required

• CPR for the Professional Rescuer/AED/Oxygen/First Aid
• YMCA or American Red Cross Lifeguard
• YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor (preferred)
• YMCA Water Fitness Instructor/YMCA Group Exercise Instructor (or similar) (preferred)
• YMCA Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (preferred)
• YMCA Swim Lesson Trainer (preferred)
• Praesidium Child Abuse Prevention/Blood Borne Pathogens/Sexual Harrassment Prevention