Aquatics Director (Austin)

Greater Austin YMCA • Austin, TX

14h

About The Position

The Aquatics Director leads all aquatics operations at an assigned YMCA center, advancing the organization’s mission through safe, high-quality, and impactful aquatic programs. The role oversees programming, safety, staffing, team development, budgets, and member satisfaction, and leads swim instructors, lifeguards, and other front-line aquatics staff. It fosters a culture of safety, service, accountability, inclusion, and growth while developing staff and creating strong member experiences.

The director is responsible for program planning and evaluation, staffing and scheduling, safety and regulatory compliance, payroll validation, financial management, member communications, and operational risk management. The role also contributes to center leadership, fundraising activities, special events, strategic planning, and key YMCA programs. The position requires working in and around aquatic environments, including wet and humid conditions and, occasionally, varying weather during outdoor activities.

Starting salary is $53,000 annually, with compensation commensurate with experience, education, and certifications. The position is eligible for a $2,000 sign-on bonus; eligibility requirements and details are provided during the interview process.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management, Business Administration, Sports Management, Nonprofit Management, Human Services, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• At least 2–3 years of leadership experience in aquatics, recreation, youth development, or a related field, including supervising and developing teams.
• Ability to recruit, coach, develop, and retain high-performing leaders and foster accountability, belonging, and continuous improvement.
• Experience overseeing program operations, scheduling, safety compliance, and risk management.
• Knowledge of budgeting, payroll administration, and financial management, including monitoring expenses and supporting department financial goals.
• Experience evaluating program effectiveness and using data to improve participant experiences, operational efficiency, and outcomes.
• Strong relationship-building skills with members, families, community partners, and fellow leaders.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing needs, and lead in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Current BLS (CPR-PRO), First Aid, Emergency Oxygen, Lifeguarding, and Swim Instruction certifications.
• Lifeguard Instructor and Swim Instructor certifications, or ability to obtain them within six months of hire.
• Must obtain Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification within three months of hire.
• Knowledge of aquatic safety standards, regulatory requirements, and compliance practices.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting fundraising efforts, special events, community partnerships, or grant-related initiatives.
• Bilingual Spanish and English skills.
• YMCA Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (YLGIT) and YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor Trainer (YSLIT) certifications.
• Familiarity with aquatic management, scheduling, registration, and program management software.

Responsibilities

• Build a respectful, accountable, inclusive team culture and address conflict constructively.
• Hire, coach, manage, and develop direct reports in alignment with association people practices.
• Set and monitor goals, conduct regular check-ins, and provide ongoing feedback and development support.
• Create and roll out engaging aquatics programs that address community needs and improve member satisfaction.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and use data to make improvements to engagement, outcomes, and operations.
• Recruit, mentor, train, and recognize aquatics staff, while addressing performance improvement needs.
• Validate and manage department payroll accurately and on time.
• Lead safety and compliance audits and ensure staff certifications and regulatory requirements are current.
• Maintain accurate and current aquatics information across platforms.
• Respond to member and community inquiries, resolve issues, and engage members to improve satisfaction and retention.
• Promote aquatic programs and events through social media, digital platforms, and internal channels.
• Manage aquatics budgets, allocate resources, and monitor expenses.
• Identify and mitigate risks, and ensure safety protocols are followed.
• Develop staff schedules, ensure adequate program and facility coverage, and resolve scheduling conflicts.
• Create a positive work environment and serve as Cause Driven Leader on Duty or Director on Duty.
• Assist with in-center fundraising activities and special events.
• Represent the aquatics department on the Impact Team and contribute to strategic planning and decision-making.
• Serve as liaison for key programs such as Project SAFE.
• Integrate the YMCA’s mission into daily operations and strategic efforts.
• Perform additional tasks that support the aquatics department and YMCA.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 12% employer-funded retirement savings plan, subject to eligibility.
• Up to 48 days of paid time off across vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Free household membership to Greater Austin YMCA-operated facilities, valued at more than $1,200 annually.
• $2,000 sign-on bonus, subject to eligibility requirements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager