Aquatics Director (Dripping Springs)

Greater Austin YMCA•Dripping Springs, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aquatics Director leads all aquatic operations at an assigned YMCA center, including programming, safety, staffing, team development, and member satisfaction. The role advances the YMCA’s mission by creating safe, high-quality, community-focused aquatic programs and fostering a culture of safety, service, accountability, inclusion, and growth. The Director leads swim instructors, lifeguards, and other front-line aquatics staff, and supports the center’s wider operations and goals.

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 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, including entering the water and performing rescues; hear and communicate clearly; and lift or move equipment or individuals weighing up to 50 pounds.
Comfort working in wet and humid conditions for extended periods and occasional exposure to varying weather conditions during outdoor activities.

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 trust, treat colleagues and team members with respect, address conflict constructively, clarify expectations, hold staff accountable, and achieve strategic and operational goals.
Model inclusive leadership and build teams that draw on diverse skills and perspectives.
Hire, coach, and manage direct reports in alignment with association people practices.
Establish goals, track performance against organizational objectives, and conduct regular check-ins with direct reports to provide coaching, 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 improve engagement, outcomes, and operations.
Recruit, develop, mentor, and train aquatics staff; recognize achievements and address performance improvement needs.
Validate and manage department payroll accurately and on time.
Conduct safety and compliance audits, maintain current staff certifications, and meet regulatory standards.
Ensure aquatics information is accurate and up to date across platforms.
Respond to member and community inquiries, resolve issues, and proactively communicate with members to improve their experience and retention.
Promote aquatic programming and events through social media, digital platforms, and internal channels.
Manage the aquatics budget, allocate resources, and monitor expenses.
Identify operational risks and ensure safety protocols are followed to maintain a secure environment.
Develop staff schedules, ensure adequate coverage, and resolve scheduling conflicts.
Create a positive, motivating work environment and serve as Cause Driven Leader on Duty or Director on Duty.
Assist with in-center fundraising activities and special events.
Drive team engagement and service standards.
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 as needed to support the aquatics department and YMCA.