Aquatics Manager - Island H2O Water Park

NDM Hospitality Services•Kissimmee, FL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aquatics Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the Aquatics Department within a high-volume water park. This role ensures the highest standards of guest safety, operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and team performance. The Aquatics Manager oversees all aquatic operations, staff development, safety programs, and facility performance, while serving as a key member of park leadership and acting as Manager-on-Duty (MOD) when assigned. This position blends operational leadership (daily park execution), safety & risk management oversight, administrative, financial, and staffing accountability, and guest experience excellence.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent required
2–5+ years in aquatics, water park, or related operations required
Prior lifeguard experience required
Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Certification (ILTP) or ability to obtain
CPR, AED, First Aid Certifications
Valid Driver's License
Swim 200 yards continuously
Retrieve 5–10 lb brick from deep water
Tread water 2 minutes (hands-free)
Advanced knowledge of aquatic safety & emergency response
Advanced knowledge of water park operations & risk management
Advanced knowledge of pool systems & water chemistry
Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills
Ability to manage high-pressure emergency situations
Strong organizational, analytical, and decision-making skills
Excellent communication and guest service focus
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and reporting systems
Ability to work flexible schedules (holidays, weekends, evenings)
Ability to stand/walk for extended periods
Ability to swim and perform rescues
Lift up to 50 lbs (with assistance)
Work outdoors in heat, humidity, and inclement weather
Respond quickly and effectively in emergencies

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Hospitality, Business, or related field preferred
2+ years in supervisory or management role preferred
Experience in high-volume or resort environments highly preferred
Ellis Lifeguard Instructor Certification
Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) or Certified Pool Operator (CPO)
Water Safety Instructor (WSI)
Aquatic Supervisor or Management Certification

Responsibilities

Oversee all daily operations of aquatic facilities, including pools, slides, wave attractions, rivers, and play structures.
Ensure safe, efficient, and guest-ready operations at all times.
Establish and enforce departmental policies, procedures, and SOPs.
Act as Manager-on-Duty (MOD) supporting total park operations.
Monitor attendance, guest flow, and attraction throughput.
Lead and enforce all aquatic safety and risk management programs.
Ensure compliance with Ellis & Associates Aquatic Risk Management Program, OSHA, state health codes, and safety regulations.
Oversee implementation of Emergency Action Plans (EAPs).
Monitor lifeguard scanning and vigilance standards (10/20 rule).
Conduct internal audits and prepare for external safety audits.
Serve as lead authority during emergencies, including water rescues, medical emergencies, and severe weather events.
Ensure proper execution of CPR, AED, First Aid, and oxygen administration.
Oversee documentation, investigations, and corrective actions.
Coordinate with EMS, security, and executive leadership.
Recruit, hire, train, and retain aquatics staff: lifeguards, supervisors, instructors, attendants.
Develop and manage staffing models, schedules, and labor budgets.
Provide coaching, performance reviews, and corrective action.
Ensure enforcement of grooming, conduct, and uniform standards.
Build a high-performing, safety-focused culture.
Oversee all lifeguard certification programs (Ellis & Associates ILTP).
Ensure staff maintain lifeguard certification and CPR/AED/First Aid compliance.
Implement monthly in-service training and drills.
Develop leadership pipeline (Lead Guards → Supervisors).
Ensure proper monitoring of water chemistry (chlorine, pH, clarity).
Oversee inspections and preventative maintenance programs.
Partner with maintenance for repairs and downtime management.
Ensure compliance with public health and sanitation standards.
Maintain accurate records including incident and accident reports, water quality logs, safety audits and inspections.
Analyze trends to reduce risk and improve operations.
Prepare reports for leadership and regulatory agencies.
Develop and manage departmental budgets.
Monitor labor costs, overtime, and supplies and equipment spending.
Identify cost-saving opportunities and operational efficiencies.
Support revenue-generating programs (lessons, events, rentals).
Oversee aquatic programming: swim lessons, group events, special experiences.
Drive exceptional guest service standards.
Resolve escalated guest concerns and incidents.
Ensure a safe, fun, inclusive environment.
Partner with Maintenance (repairs & closures), Security (incident response), HR (staffing & compliance), and Operations (park-wide initiatives).
Support park events, promotions, and peak-season readiness.