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.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
