Assistant Aquatics Director

Crossroads YMCA•Crown Point, IN

About The Position

The Assistant Aquatics Director supports the day-to-day operation and growth of YMCA aquatic programs while helping ensure a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for participants, members, volunteers, and staff. Working closely with the Aquatics Director, this hands-on leadership role combines program operations, staff development, direct program delivery, customer service, administration, and safety oversight. Much of the work is conducted on deck and in aquatic areas, directly supporting staff and participants. The position involves balancing administrative responsibilities with operational and participant-facing duties, adapting to changing schedules and staffing needs, and responding effectively to emergencies. Work may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and occasional on-call shifts.

Requirements

Minimum of two years of experience in aquatics, recreation, or a related field.
Current Lifeguard certification.
Strong communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard office software.
Ability to respond effectively during emergency situations.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, and move throughout the workday.
Ability to work in humid, wet, and aquatic environments for extended periods.
Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions and extreme temperatures during seasonal aquatic operations.
Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively and monitor participant safety.
High level of alertness, concentration, and initiative, particularly in safety-sensitive situations.
Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor at all times.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience supervising staff or leading aquatic programs.
Experience with scheduling, budgeting, and program administration.
Experience working in a YMCA or nonprofit environment.

Responsibilities

Assist with planning, coordinating, marketing, and evaluating aquatic programs and services.
Support the growth and quality of swim lessons, lifeguarding programs, aquatic fitness classes, and special events.
Monitor participant satisfaction and recommend improvements to member experiences.
Help ensure programs align with YMCA standards and community needs.
Assist with recruiting, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training aquatic staff.
Coach and support staff, provide performance feedback, help conduct evaluations, and support corrective action processes when needed.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and team-oriented work environment.
Actively supervise assigned shifts and provide operational coverage as needed.
Assist with swim lessons, aquatic programming, special events, and direct participant support.
Model professionalism, customer service, and safe practices.
Ensure staff maintain required certifications, including CPR/AED, First Aid, Lifeguarding, and Swim Instructor certifications.
Conduct and participate in emergency drills and in-service trainings.
Monitor safety practices and ensure compliance with YMCA policies and industry standards.
Respond appropriately to emergencies and support incident management procedures.
Assist with scheduling, payroll processing, record keeping, and reporting.
Support budget management and help ensure programs operate within approved financial guidelines.
Maintain accurate records related to certifications, training, attendance, and safety compliance.
Assist with purchasing and maintaining aquatic equipment and supplies.
Respond professionally and promptly to member questions, concerns, and feedback.
Support YMCA fundraising efforts, including the Annual Campaign.
Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and community partners to strengthen YMCA impact and engagement.