Aquatic Director (Full-Time)

YMCA Of Central Massachusetts•Westborough, MA

6d•$47,476 - $50,000•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Senior Director of Program Operations and in partnership with other Aquatics Director, this role plays a key part in the overall success of the Aquatics Program. Every effort will be made to operate a first-rate Aquatic Program which will focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The incumbent will assist with the operation and administration of all the aquatic programs at the facility and within the community.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree preferred (required in some cases) with at least 3 years of supervisory experience, or 7 years of progressively responsible experience
Requires current or obtained certifications in Lifeguarding, Swim Instruction, Pool Operation, Aquatic Facilities Management, and CPR (within 90 days of hire)
Demonstrated ability to work independently with strong initiative and exercise sound judgment with minimal supervision
Ability to manage multiple major projects and priorities simultaneously
Strong decision-making skills related to aquatic safety, daily operations, and non-routine employment matters
Ability to assess facts and issues and make informed, non-routine decisions
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong human relations abilities
Proven supervisory skills with the ability to develop and foster cooperative relationships
Ability to remain calm, objective, and respectful in high-pressure or sensitive situations (e.g., employee counseling, mediation, termination)
Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage information accurately and maintain strict confidentiality
Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.

Nice To Haves

Achieve and maintain CPR/AED and First Aid Instructor certifications within six months
Obtain and maintain YMCA Swim Instructor Trainer (SI) and Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) certifications within six months

Responsibilities

Champion exceptional member service, modeling a safe, welcoming, and inclusive aquatic environment that brings the YMCA’s mission—youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility—to life.
Support the strategic planning, execution, and continuous improvement of aquatic programs and community partnerships, ensuring high-quality experiences aligned with YMCA standards and best practices.
Lead all aspects of the staff lifecycle—recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, development, evaluation, and retention—for Lifeguards, Swim Instructors, and Aquatic staff, while cultivating a culture of accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.
Design and manage comprehensive staff schedules to ensure optimal coverage across all aquatic programs, open swim, lessons, and special events, proactively addressing gaps to maintain seamless operations.
Collaborate with Aquatics leadership to ensure consistent full-time deck supervision during peak evening hours (4:00–7:30 PM), upholding safety standards, enhancing member engagement, and ensuring program quality.
Coordinate and lead monthly in-service trainings for Swim Instructors and Lifeguards, reinforcing safety protocols, risk management practices, and instructional excellence.
Achieve and maintain CPR/AED and First Aid Instructor certifications within six months; actively lead staff certification courses to ensure ongoing compliance and readiness.
Obtain and maintain YMCA Swim Instructor Trainer (SI) and Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) certifications within six months; drive internal training capacity through staff certifications and re-certifications.
Drive program innovation and growth by leading the development, evaluation, and optimization of aquatic offerings, including curriculum design and schedule alignment to meet member needs and increase participation.
Ensure accuracy and timeliness of all pool schedules across digital platforms and member-facing communications.
Enforce rigorous compliance with all safety and regulatory standards, including YMCA policies and Department of Public Health requirements; conduct regular audits and proactively mitigate risks.
Support budget development and financial management for the aquatic department, contributing to fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.
Integrate YMCA character development principles into all programs, staff training, and member interactions.
Maintain clear, consistent, and proactive communication with members and staff regarding schedules, policies, program updates, and safety expectations.
Serve as a leader in the Annual Campaign and branch events, actively supporting fundraising efforts that expand access and community impact.
Engage in Aquatic Task Force and branch/association meetings, contributing to strategic planning and operational excellence.
Oversee the cleanliness, safety, and overall presentation of all aquatic facilities, ensuring a high-quality member experience.
Support branch operations and mission delivery by performing additional duties as needed.

Benefits

generous PTO
access to YMCA facilities for all YMCA employees
Medical
Dental
Disability
Life
Vision
Pet Insurance
ability to participate 403b Retirement Savings Plan
once fully vested, the YMCA will pay into a retirement account (403a) for you with an employer match