Aquatics Director (Buda)

Greater Austin YMCA•Buda, TX

About The Position

The Aquatics Director leads all aquatics operations at an assigned YMCA center, advancing the YMCA’s mission through safe, high-quality, and impactful aquatic programs. The role oversees programming, safety, staffing, team development, and member satisfaction, and leads swim instructors, lifeguards, and other frontline aquatics staff while fostering a culture of safety, service, accountability, inclusion, and growth. The director develops and evaluates programs, recruits and develops staff, oversees schedules, payroll, budgets, safety compliance, risk management, member communications, and program information. The role also contributes to center leadership, fundraising activities, special events, strategic planning, and key initiatives such as Project SAFE. The position requires work in and around aquatic facilities, including the ability to respond to emergencies and perform 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 principles.
Experience evaluating program effectiveness and using data to improve participant experiences, operational efficiency, and program 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.
Ability to walk, stand, sit, bend, and move throughout the facility; respond quickly to emergencies, enter the water, and perform rescues when necessary.
Clear hearing and verbal communication for monitoring staff, responding to safety signals or distress calls, and giving directions.
Ability to lift and/or move equipment or individuals weighing up to 50 pounds.
Comfort working in wet and humid conditions for extended periods, with occasional exposure to varying weather during outdoor activities.

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, inclusive, accountable team culture; address conflict constructively; clarify expectations; and achieve strategic and operational goals.
Hire, coach, manage, and develop direct reports in alignment with association people practices.
Set goals, monitor progress through regular check-ins, and provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and development opportunities.
Create, launch, and continuously improve aquatics programs based on community needs, member satisfaction, data, and outcomes.
Recruit, train, mentor, recognize, and develop a high-performing aquatics team.
Validate and manage department payroll to ensure accurate and timely compensation.
Lead safety and compliance audits and ensure staff certifications are current and regulatory standards are met.
Keep aquatics information accurate and current across platforms.
Respond to member and community inquiries, resolve issues, and proactively communicate to improve member experience and retention.
Promote aquatic programs and events through social media, digital platforms, and internal channels.
Manage aquatics program budgets, allocate resources, and monitor expenses.
Identify and mitigate risks, enforce safety protocols, and maintain a secure environment.
Develop staff schedules, ensure adequate coverage, and resolve scheduling conflicts.
Serve as Cause Driven Leader on Duty or Director on Duty and create a positive, motivating work environment.
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 supporting the aquatics department and YMCA.