Aquatic Programs Assistant

Make Waves in Your Career at the Kroc Center!

If you're a certified lifeguard looking for your next step in leadership, instruction, or aquatics operations, this is your chance to dive into a dynamic and rewarding role. Join our Kroc Aquatics team as an Aquatic Programs Assistant and help create a safe, vibrant, and engaging aquatic experience for all. No two days are the same - and every day, you'll make a meaningful impact.

Why You'll Love This Job

• Step into leadership and program support
• Use your lifeguarding expertise in new ways - teach, train, mentor, and lead
• Gain hands-on experience in pool operations and facility management
• Enjoy a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Take advantage of career-building certifications and growth opportunities
• Be part of a mission-driven organization that truly makes a difference

Position Overview:

The Aquatic Programs Assistant supports the daily operations, programming, and overall success of the Kroc Aquatic Center. This role helps maintain a safe, welcoming, and well-organized environment by assisting with program coordination, facility upkeep, lifeguard support, and pool operations. You'll play a key role in ensuring positive guest experiences, smooth-running classes, and consistent safety practices across the venue.

Pay & Schedule

• Rate of Pay: $17.36 - $21.71 per hour (commensurate with education and experience)
• Schedule: 40 hours per week with a variable schedule based on programming needs.
• Flexibility is essential - some evenings, weekends, and holidays are required

What You'll Be Doing

As an Aquatic Programs Assistant you will:

• Ensure a safe and welcoming environment by reinforcing aquatic center policies
• Educate and monitor patrons on safe use of pools, slide, and aquatic features
• Assist in training and developing lifeguards and swim instructors
• Lead swim lessons, water fitness classes, and in-service trainings
• Support pool maintenance including water chemistry checks and equipment troubleshooting
• Help coordinate program logistics, including attendance tracking and equipment management
• Provide emergency care when needed and participate in on-call rotations for urgent staffing, chemical, or mechanical issues
• Create a positive team atmosphere while stepping in wherever support is needed
• Maintain confidentiality and follow all Safe from Harm guidelines

What We're Looking For

Education & Certifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Associate's degree (preferred(
• Current American Red Cross Lifeguard and First Aid certification (required)
• Ability to obtain Lifeguard Instructor and Certified Pool Operator certification within 6 months (supported by the Kroc Center)

Experience:

• At least 2 years of lifeguard experience (required)
• Experience teaching swim lessons (preferred)

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Familiarity with water chemistry and pool maintenance (preferred)
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Customer-service mindset with a focus on safety and professionalism
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Ability to read, write, and communicate clearly in English
• Ability to pass background and motor vehicle record checks

Why Join the Kroc Team?

When you join the Kroc Center, you're not just taking a job - you're joining a mission-driven team that makes a real difference in the lives of others. We're committed to providing a fun, respectful, and rewarding work environment with benefits that support your personal and professional well-being.

Here's what we offer:

• 14 Paid Holidays - Yes, really. Including a floating holiday for you to use however you'd like!
• Generous Paid Time Off - Vacation, sick leave, and discretionary days because your time matters.
• Medical, Dental, Vision & Hearing Coverage - Comprehensive and affordable.
• 100% Employer-Paid Pension Plan - We invest in your future.
• Free Kroc Membership - Enjoy a free adult or family membership (just pay the taxes).

Career Path With Real Growth

This position is ideal for lifeguards who want to expand into:

• Aquatic program leadership
• Staff training and certification instruction
• Pool operations and facility management
• Lifeguard supervision and emergency response coordination

We provide training support for obtaining advanced certifications and encourage internal promotion.

About The Kroc Center:

The Quincy Kroc Center redefines what it means to be a community center - uniting people of all ages and backgrounds in a vibrant space dedicated to transformation and hope. As part of The Salvation Army's mission to meet human needs in Jesus' name without discrimination, the Kroc Center nurtures the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Our state-of-the-art facility includes an aquatics center, fitness and recreation areas, worship and performance venue, classrooms, and community gathering spaces.

More than just a building, the Kroc Center is a place where lives are changed through programs, relationships, and opportunities for growth.

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity…