Aquatics Director

Overview

AQUATICS DIRECTOR

Location: RC Durr YMCA, Burlington, KY

Reports to: Director of Aquatics Operations

FLSA: Full-time/Exempt

Salary Range: $40,000 - $45,000

Make a Splash. Build Leaders. Save Lives.

The R.C. Durr YMCA is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven Aquatics Director to lead, grow, and stabilize one of our most critical program areas. This is an urgent, high-impact leadership role for a proven aquatics professional who thrives in fast-paced environments, builds strong teams, and believes deeply in community service.

At the Y, aquatics is more than swimming—it’s about safety, confidence, health, inclusion, and belonging. Our Aquatics Director plays a vital role in ensuring every member—regardless of age, background, or ability—has access to high-quality, safe, and engaging aquatic experiences.

Under the direction of the Director of Aquatic Operations, the Aquatics Director provides strategic, operational, and people leadership for all branch aquatic programs and services. This role oversees program development, staff leadership, safety compliance, budgeting, and member experience, while modeling YMCA values and relationship-centered leadership.

The Aquatics Director ensures that aquatic programs are safe, inclusive, financially responsible, and mission-aligned, serving preschoolers, youth, adults, seniors, and families across the community.

• Develop, manage, and expand aquatic programs including swim lessons, water fitness, swim teams, and specialty programs
• Build and execute a long-range vision for the aquatic department aligned with branch and association goals
• Plan schedules, manage enrollment, and conduct ongoing program evaluations using participation, financial, and quality metrics
• Ensure daily pool, whirlpool, and facility operations meet all state, local, and YMCA safety and health regulations

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, develop, and retain a high-performing aquatics team
• Supervise and coach lifeguards, instructors, and aquatic staff with clear expectations and accountability
• Maintain all staff certifications and proactively manage renewals
• Foster a culture where staff feel supported, prepared, and connected to the mission
• Model Listen First and relationship-building behaviors in all interactions with staff, members, and families

• Lead comprehensive training programs including Lifeguarding, CPR Pro, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen
• Serve as a key safety leader for the branch, ensuring emergency readiness and response excellence
• Maintain first aid and blood borne pathogen supplies across aquatic and branch operations

• Be visible and present during programs—especially at the beginning and end of sessions
• Build trusting relationships with parents, participants, and members
• Respond to member questions or concerns promptly and professionally
• Collaborate with community partners and organizations to enhance program reach and inclusion

• Develop and manage the annual aquatics budget with a focus on sustainability, growth, and accountability
• Conduct cost analysis, revenue forecasting, and expense control

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Health, Physical Education, or related field (required)
• Minimum 2–3 years of aquatics leadership experience (YMCA experience strongly preferred)
• Proven experience supervising, training, and developing staff and volunteers

Required Certifications (or ability to obtain quickly)

• YMCA Lifeguarding or American Red Cross Lifeguarding (YMCA certification required within 60 days)
• CPR for the Professional Rescuer, Basic First Aid, Emergency Oxygen
• YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor (YSL) or WSI (preferred)

Preferred / Advanced YMCA Credentials

• YMCA Aquatic Management (YAM), YMCA POOL (Pool Operator On Location), Lifeguard Instructor / Trainer
• Swim Lesson Instructor Trainer, Water Fitness Instructor / Trainer, Progress toward YMCA Leadership Competency Model certifications

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to lead through urgency while maintaining calm, safety, and clarity
• Excellent relationship-building skills with diverse populations
• Financial acumen and program planning capability
• Sound judgment and ability to respond effectively in emergency situations

This role includes physical activity consistent with aquatic leadership, including standing, walking, lifting up to 40 lbs., performing water rescues, and responding to emergencies. The Aquatics Director must meet all lifeguard physical and sensory requirements to ensure safety and effective supervision