Aquatics Director

YMCA
Salary
$52,000.00
Resumes Accepted Until
Resume Contact
[email protected]
Dive into an exciting leadership role as our Aquatics Director! 
Job Description

Under the general direction of the Association Aquatics Director and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the Aquatics Director is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations and growth of YMCA aquatic programs at two locations.  This position requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement to ensure the success of aquatic activities and staff development while maintaining high safety and operational standards.

Spartanburg is a growing community in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its friendly people and strong community spirit. The area offers mild weather, beautiful parks, and quick access to both the mountains and the coast. Downtown is full of locally owned restaurants, unique shops, and events that bring people together. With respected schools, multiple colleges, a healthy job market, and a cost of living that allows for a comfortable lifestyle, Spartanburg is a place to build both a career and a life. At the YMCA, you’ll join a supportive, mission-driven team making a lasting difference in the community.

Benefits & Perks

Along with being part of an amazing team, we offer the following benefits:

    • 12% Retirement Contribution
    • 403b Retirement Savings Plan
    • Separate Paid Sick and Vacation Leave
    • Medical Benefits
    • Company Paid Life Insurance
    • 11 Company Paid Holidays
    • Nationwide Y Membership for your Household
    • 100% Discount on Programs, including Childcare, Sports, and Aquatics.
    • Generous Training & Leadership Development Allowance
Qualifications
    • Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in pool management, lifeguarding, supervision, or related fields.
    • Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
    • Bachelor’s degree in sports management, recreation, or a related field preferred.
    • Knowledge and comfort working within: Google platforms, Excel, Word and other document-sharing systems
    • Knowledge of aquatics regulations and best practices in youth-serving aquatics facilities.
    • Current Lifeguard certification.  Ability to acquire: Lifeguard instructor, Swim Lesson Instructor and eventually Instructor Trainer levels of certification with national agencies. (travel may be involved)
    • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as safety regulations and program needs require.
Essential Functions

Program Development & Operations

    • Plan, implement, and oversee aquatic programs, including swimming lessons, lifeguard training, water fitness classes, and community outreach initiatives.
    • Ensure programs meet YMCA standards, participant needs, and industry best practices.
    • Expand partnerships with schools, camps, and organizations to enhance off-site programming.
    • Evaluate program effectiveness, implement improvements, and track participation metrics.

Safety & Compliance

    • Ensure all on-site and off-site pools comply with local, state, and federal health and safety regulations.
    • Maintain up-to-date certifications for self and staff, including CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard training.
    • Conduct regular safety drills, pool inspections, and equipment checks to ensure operational readiness.
    • Implement emergency action plans and oversee risk management procedures.

Staff Leadership & Development

    • Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatics personnel.
    • Provide ongoing coaching, professional development, and performance evaluations.
    • Foster a positive, safety-focused team culture that prioritizes excellence in customer service.
    • Attend professional development courses and staff meetings to enhance skills and program impact.

Facility & Resource Management

    • Ensure clean, well-maintained pools, equipment, and locker rooms at all locations.
    • Oversee pool chemical levels, mechanical systems, and collaborate with maintenance teams on necessary repairs.
    • Manage off-site pool agreements, ensuring proper staffing, programming, and compliance.

Community Engagement & Membership Growth

    • Promote aquatic programs to increase participation and community impact.
    • Act as a liaison between the YMCA and external organizations utilizing off-site pools.
    • Represent the YMCA at local events, fostering relationships to support growth and outreach.

Administrative & Financial Oversight

    • Develop and manage the aquatics department budget, tracking expenses and revenue.
    • Maintain accurate records of registrations, certifications, incident reports, and facility maintenance logs.
    • Ensure timely payroll processing and efficient staff scheduling.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
    • Program Management - Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs.
    • Developing Self & Others - Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential.
    • Collaboration - Creates sustainable relationships within the Y and with other organizations in service to the community.
    • Critical Thinking & Decision Making - Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgment.
    • Change Leadership - Facilitates, co-creates, and implements equitable change for the good of the organization and/or community.