Aquatics Director

Aquatics Director leads YMCA pool operations, staff, and programs, ensuring safe, high-quality services aligned with the Y mission.
Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Aquatics Director is responsible for the overall development, coordination, and
administration of all YMCA pool operations and aquatics programming. This includes
program planning, staff supervision, scheduling, registration management, community
engagement, and program evaluation.

This position also oversees the daily operation and maintenance of the Helena Family
YMCA Pool. The ideal candidate will hold a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) License or
be willing to obtain it upon hire.

The Director ensures all programs are highquality, missiondriven, and aligned with the
YMCA’s focus on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

ESSENTAL FUNCTIONS

  • Plan, implement, and evaluate all aquatics operations and programs, including
    swimming lessons, youth swim teams, and aquatic fitness.
  • Oversee and manage seasonal and year-round program schedules.
  • Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise parttime aquatics staff including
    lifeguards and swim instructors.
  • Develop and manage departmental budgets for aquatics operations.
  • Ensure all aquatics programs and facilities comply with YMCA policies, industry
    safety standards, and applicable licensing or certification requirements.
  • Maintain proactive communication with parents, participants, members, and staff;
    address and resolve concerns or complaints.
  • Monitor registration, attendance, and evaluation data to assess program impact
    and implement improvements.
  • Collaborate with the Marketing team to promote aquatics programs through
    social media, flyers, and community outreach.
  • Coordinate with facility and maintenance teams to ensure the pool and surrounding areas are clean, safe, and functional.
  • Represent the YMCA in community partnerships, coalitions, and aquatic-related collaborations.
  • Obtain/Maintenance Certified Pool Operator License
  • Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Responsibilities:
    • Test and adjust pool chemicals to maintain proper water balance,
      including disinfection, pH, alkalinity, and clarity.
    • Ensure water consistently meets all safety and sanitation standards.
    • Inspect, operate, and perform preventive maintenance on pool
      equipment including pumps, filters, heaters, and chemical feeders.
    • Complete minor repairs and respond to equipment failures,
      contamination issues, and mechanical emergencies.
    • Brush, vacuum, and clean pool surfaces, tiles, and decks to maintain
      cleanliness and prevent algae growth.
    • Clean filters, skimmer baskets, deck drains, and related components.
    • Maintain inventory of chemicals, tools, and maintenance supplies.
    • Ensure all pool operations comply with local, state, and federal health
      and safety regulations.
    • Implement risk management practices and maintain required safety
      equipment and signage.
    • Maintain accurate documentation of chemical readings, maintenance
      tasks, repairs, and inventory.
    • Prepare logs and reports as required by regulatory agencies and
      YMCA policies.
Qualifications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Certified Pool Operator License or be willing to obtain certification
  • YMCA Lifeguard Certification
  • YMCA Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) Certification
  • YMCA Swim Instructor or Swim Instructor Trainer (SIT) certification
  • CPR/AED and First Aid Instructor certification
  • Previous experience supervising aquatics staff or leading a pool facility
  • Experience managing pool mechanical systems, pumps, filtration, and water
    chemistry
  • Two or more years of experience in aquatics programming, water safety,
    coaching, or facility management
  • Experience working within a YMCA or similar nonprofit or community-based
    organization
  • Strong customer service and conflict-resolution skills
  • Budgeting or program management experience
  • Knowledge of risk management, emergency procedures, and safety protocols
  • Ability to train staff in emergency response and aquatics safety practices
  • Experience with scheduling software or Customer Relationship Management
    (CRM) systems
Essential Functions

REQUIRED SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE:

  • Technical Expertise-Strong knowledge of pool hydraulics, mechanics, water
    chemistry, and safe chemical handling. 
  • Problem-Solving-Ability to troubleshoot and address issues with equipment
    and water quality to prevent hazards and closures. 
  • Attention to Detail-Critical for noticing subtle changes in water or equipment
    that could indicate a problem. 
  • Communication Skills-Ability to address customer concerns and interact with
    staff and the public.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to stand, walk, and remain active on the pool deck for extended
    periods of time (up to 8 hours).
  • Ability to lift, move, or carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 50
    pounds.
  • Ability to perform tasks that require bending, kneeling, reaching, and
    climbing (e.g., accessing equipment rooms, handling pool covers, or cleaning
    equipment).
  • Ability to enter and exit the pool safely and perform water rescues if
    necessary.
  • Ability to swim at a proficient level consistent with aquatics safety standards.
  • Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and
    safety hazards, including distressed swimmers.
  • Ability to work in hot, humid, and chlorinated environments for extended periods.
  • Ability to operate mechanical and chemical pool systems safely (requires manual dexterity and mobility).
  • Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
  • Ability to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended hours during peak program seasons as required.