YMCA Alexandria - Aquatics Director
About The Position
At the Y, we’re more than a gym or pool — we’re a cause-driven organization focused on strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As Aquatics Director, you’ll play a vital leadership role in advancing our mission while building a culture of excellence, safety, and engagement. The YMCA Alexandria is seeking a passionate, mission-driven Aquatics Director to lead one of our most impactful program areas. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love developing teams, and are energized by creating safe, high-quality aquatic experiences for the community — this is your opportunity to lead with purpose. The Aquatics Director oversees all aquatic operations, programming, staffing, and safety initiatives. This role is responsible for ensuring high-quality service delivery, maximizing pool utilization, managing budgets, and developing a strong, engaged aquatics team. You’ll report to the Executive Director and collaborate closely with association leadership while directly supervising Aquatics leadership staff, lifeguards, swim instructors, and pool operators.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree required
- Minimum 5 years of relevant aquatics leadership experience
- Strong background in program management, staff development, and operations
- YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguard Certification
- CPR Pro and First Aid
- Two aquatic training proficiencies
- Proven leadership and team-building ability
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Budget and financial management experience
- Strategic planning and problem-solving skills
- Commitment to YMCA mission and values
- Ability to lift 40+ pounds
- Meet all YMCA Lifeguarding physical prerequisites
- Swim 500 yards continuously
- Perform rescues and emergency response skills
- Ability to see and hear participants in distress
Responsibilities
- Lead and implement innovative aquatic programs aligned with YMCA mission and community needs
- Maximize pool utilization and member satisfaction
- Schedule aquatic programs, classes, and special events
- Support swim team operations including scheduling, marketing, and finances
- Recruit, hire, train, coach, and develop aquatics staff
- Conduct performance management and ongoing in-service training
- Build strong team culture focused on safety, professionalism, and service excellence
- Manage departmental budget and meet financial goals
- Assist branch leadership with planning, scheduling, and operational strategy
- Maintain current certifications, licenses, and inspection readiness
- Deliver exceptional service to members, families, and community partners
- Serve as an “Aquatics Ambassador” welcoming and engaging participants
- Promote YMCA values and character development initiatives
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents.
- Free YMCA Membership: Full access for you and your family.
- The Y contributes 10% of your salary into a retirement plan, with optional 403(b) and Roth plans available.
- Vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Opportunities for ongoing training, leadership development, and advancement.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
