Aquatics Director

Description

Position Summary 

The Aquatic Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, daily operations, safety, and financial performance of the Aquatics Department. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, inclusive aquatic programs aligned with the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester mission to eliminate racism and empower women. 

The role requires a balance of administrative leadership and direct service delivery, ensuring strong program execution, staff performance, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Leadership & Development 

• Direct and oversee all aquatic programs, including:  
• Learn-to-Swim (group and private lessons) 
• Water fitness programs 
• Youth and community-based aquatic programs 
• Summer camp aquatics programming 
• Develop, implement, and evaluate programs to meet participation and revenue goals 
• Manage pool scheduling to maximize utilization while maintaining safety standards 
• Ensure instructional quality consistent with American Red Cross or equivalent standards 
• Collaborate closely with the Middies Swim Team Director to coordinate scheduling, shared pool space, and team development 
• Maintain active engagement in program delivery, dedicating approximately 50% of work time to direct service (instruction, lifeguarding, WSI) 

2. Pool Operations & Risk Management 

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and regulatory aquatic safety standards 
• Oversee pool maintenance, water quality, and inspections in partnership with facilities staff 
• Develop and enforce emergency action and risk management procedures 
• Monitor incident reporting and implement corrective actions as needed 

3. Staff Supervision & Human Resources Management 

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and supervise aquatic staff, including lifeguards and instructors 
• Develop staff schedules ensuring adequate coverage during all operating hours 
• Ensure all certifications remain current and compliant 
• Conduct performance evaluations, coaching, and corrective action when necessary 
• Facilitate ongoing training and professional development 

4. Financial Management 

• Develop and manage annual aquatic department budget 
• Monitor revenue streams (programs, private lessons, rentals) and control expenses 
• Track performance against revenue and participation targets 
• Identify opportunities for program growth and earned income 

5. Community Engagement & Membership Experience 

• Build partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local stakeholders 
• Promote aquatics programming to increase engagement and retention 
• Support membership growth and satisfaction 
• Represent the YWCA in community initiatives and events 

Performance Metrics (Key Performance Indicators – KPIs):

Program Delivery & Engagement: 

• 50% of time dedicated to direct service delivery (instruction/lifeguarding/WSI) 
• Achievement of program enrollment and participation goals 
• Improvement in participant retention rates 
• Successful implementation of summer camp aquatics programming 

Safety & Compliance: 

• Full compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements 
• Zero preventable safety incidents; timely reporting of all incidents 
• 100% staff certification compliance 
• Completion of required drills and safety trainings 

Staff Management:

• Maintenance of full staffing levels and coverage 
• Staff retention and engagement 
• Completion of performance evaluations and training plans 
• Compliance with staff-to-participant ratios 

Financial Performance:

• Adherence to approved budget 
• Achievement of revenue targets 
• Increased pool utilization rates 
• Cost control and efficient resource allocation 

Collaboration & Engagement: 

• Effective coordination with Middies Swim Team Director 
• Positive member satisfaction and feedback scores 
• Growth in community partnerships 
• Contribution to overall membership retention 

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sports Management, or related field (or equivalent experience) 
• 3–5 years of aquatics management experience 
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience 
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills 
• Experience with learn-to-swim programming (American Red Cross or equivalent) 

Required Certifications 

• Lifeguard Certification (deep water) 
• CPR/AED and First Aid 
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent 
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) 

Preferred Certifications 

• American Red Cross WSI Trainer (WSIT) 
• Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) 
• Lifeguard Management certification 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in nonprofit or community-based organizations 
• Experience managing multi-use aquatic facilities 
• Competitive swim program management experience 

Work Environment & Schedule 

• Includes indoor pool and office environment 
• Requires standing, walking, and active participation in aquatic programs 
• Must be available for evenings and at least one weekend day 
• Exposure to pool chemicals and aquatic environment conditions 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to perform lifeguarding and swim instruction duties 
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations 
• Ability to lift up to 25–50 lbs as needed 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Salary: $65,000-$70,000
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and Paid Time Off
• Professional development opportunities

Organizational Overview 

The YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester serves over 4,000 individuals weekly through childcare, after-school programs, summer camp, aquatics, and mission-based services. The organization also provides housing for 193 low-income women. 

We are committed to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting dignity, justice, and opportunity for all. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.