Aquatics Director (Buda)

Greater Austin YMCA•Buda, TX

16h

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 programs. The role oversees programming, safety, staffing, team development, and member satisfaction, and leads swim instructors, lifeguards, and other front-line aquatics staff while fostering a culture of safety, service, accountability, inclusion, and growth. The director develops and evaluates programs, recruits and develops staff, manages schedules, payroll, budgets, safety and compliance, and communicates programming to members and the community. The position also contributes to center leadership, fundraising activities, special events, strategic planning, and implementation of key programs such as Project SAFE. The role requires working in and around an aquatic environment and responding to emergencies, including entering the water and performing rescues when necessary.

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 while fostering 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 in Spanish and English.
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 team culture; address conflict constructively; clarify expectations; and achieve strategic and operational goals.
Model inclusive leadership and build strong teams that use diverse skills and perspectives in support of the YMCA mission.
Hire, coach, and manage direct reports in alignment with association people practices.
Establish and monitor goals, conduct check-ins, provide feedback and coaching, and discuss development opportunities with direct reports.
Create and roll out engaging aquatics programs that address community needs and enhance member satisfaction.
Evaluate program effectiveness and use data to improve engagement, participant experiences, operational efficiency, and outcomes.
Recruit, mentor, train, and develop a high-performing aquatics team; recognize achievements and address improvement needs.
Validate and manage department payroll, ensuring timely and accurate compensation.
Conduct safety and compliance audits and ensure staff certifications and regulatory standards are current.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date aquatics information across relevant platforms.
Respond to member and community inquiries, resolve issues, and proactively engage members to improve satisfaction and retention.
Communicate aquatic programs and events through social media, digital platforms, and internal channels.
Manage the aquatics program budget, allocate resources, monitor expenses, and support financial goals.
Identify and mitigate operational risks and ensure safety protocols are followed.
Develop staff schedules, ensure adequate program and facility coverage, resolve conflicts, and fill shifts.
Lead by example as Cause Driven Leader on Duty or Director on Duty and foster a positive, motivating work environment.
Assist with in-center fundraising activities and special events, including their execution and promotion.
Drive team engagement and effectiveness and set high standards for service and leadership.
Represent the aquatics department on the Impact Team and contribute to strategic planning and decision-making.
Serve as the liaison for key programs such as Project SAFE.
Integrate the YMCA’s mission into daily operations and strategic efforts.
Perform additional tasks as needed to support aquatics department and YMCA operations and goals.