Aquatics Director

Crossroads YMCA•Schererville, IN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA is seeking an Aquatics Director to lead the daily operations, growth, and quality of assigned programs, with a primary focus on aquatics and member engagement. This role is ideal for a leader who enjoys developing people, creating exceptional participant experiences, managing operations, and ensuring safety and compliance. The Aquatics Director will oversee program development, staff recruitment and supervision, budgeting, risk management, and community partnerships while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. This is a highly visible leadership role that combines people management, customer service, program operations, and safety oversight.

Requirements

Associate degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
Three years of related supervisory or program leadership experience.
Ability to respond effectively during emergencies.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn new software systems.
Ability to effectively engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Lifeguard and Swim Instructor certifications.
Maintains current technical and industry knowledge.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, and move throughout the workday.
Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.
Ability to maintain focus, alertness, and sound judgment in a busy environment.
Ability to work in both office and aquatic settings.
Must maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.

Nice To Haves

Instructor/Trainer certification preferred.
Obtain and maintain Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification within 90 days of hire.

Responsibilities

Recruit, hire, onboard, train, and supervise program staff.
Provide ongoing coaching, performance feedback, and professional development.
Establish department goals and measure team performance against key objectives.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and accountable team culture.
Develop, coordinate, market, and evaluate program offerings and services.
Monitor participant satisfaction and implement improvements based on feedback.
Support member engagement and retention initiatives.
Ensure programs meet YMCA quality standards and community needs.
Implement and maintain risk management practices.
Conduct emergency drills, staff trainings, and preparedness assessments.
Ensure staff certifications remain current.
Maintain compliance with licensing, OSHA, and aquatics safety requirements.
Monitor and maintain equipment through preventive maintenance schedules.
Develop and manage annual department budgets.
Monitor revenue and expenses, prepare variance reports, and provide accurate forecasts.
Ensure programs operate within approved budgets while maintaining quality standards.
Build relationships with schools, agencies, community organizations, and program partners.
Respond promptly and professionally to member and community inquiries.
Support YMCA fundraising initiatives, including the Annual Campaign.
Complete payroll, recordkeeping, reporting, scheduling, and other administrative duties.
Attend and participate in required meetings, trainings, and association initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Lead and model a high-quality swim lesson program.
Conduct monthly lifeguard in-service trainings.
Maintain compliance documentation, including: Pool chemistry records, Patron load records, Staff certification tracking, Emergency drill documentation, OSHA compliance records.