Program Director of Aquatics

Under the direction of the Chief Operations Officer, the Aquatics Program Director leads all aquatics programs and services across the YMCA of Superior California. This role is primarily focused on developing, implementing, and expanding revenue-generating programs, initiatives, and events that strengthen the YMCA’s impact in the community. The Director oversees the full Aquatics program budget, ensuring responsible management of revenue and expenses.

The Aquatics Program Director collaborates closely with Branch leadership to support staff development and ensure high-quality program delivery across all YMCA aquatics programs. While branch management is responsible for hiring lifeguards, the Director plays a key role in identifying, mentoring, and developing the next generation of swim instructors and aquatic leaders. In partnership with facilities teams, the Director ensures all pools and aquatic spaces meet YMCA standards, insurance requirements, and Department of Health regulations.

As the department head, the Director oversees safety services, maintains required records, and ensures compliance with all applicable policies and regulations. The Director may provide swim instruction or lifeguarding as needed to support operations and program excellence. In addition, this role collaborates with the Office of Development to identify and pursue grant opportunities and to track and report key aquatics metrics required for funding, compliance, and organizational reporting.

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.

• Directs and supervises program activities to meet the needs of the community and fulfill YMCA objectives.
• Identifies emerging community needs and trends in aquatics to design innovative programs, events, and experiences that strengthen member engagement and increase revenue opportunities.
  
• Develops and implements strategies to grow participation in existing programs, including swim lessons, aquatic fitness, specialty classes, and competitive programs.
• Develops, manages, and closely monitors program budgets to ensure revenue and expense targets are consistently met or exceeded, implementing corrective strategies as needed to maintain strong fiscal performance.
  
• Evaluates program quality and delivery through regular observation, participant feedback, and performance metrics; implements continuous improvement plans to ensure exceptional program delivery.
  
• Creates and pilots new revenue-generating aquatics initiatives that align with YMCA mission, community needs, and organizational strategic priorities.
  
• Establishes annual program growth targets and works with branch leadership teams to execute plans that increase program reach and impact.
  
• Ensures consistent curriculum standards, class progression models, and instructional quality across all branches offering aquatic programs.
• Directs the Safety Manager and Lead positions while overseeing swim instruction, First Aid/CPR training, and all team training initiatives.
• Compiles program statistics. Monitors and evaluates the effectiveness and participation
  in programs. Collaborates with the Sales and Retention Team, and branch leadership.
• Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with community organizations. 
• Reviews and evaluates staff performance. Develops strategies to motivate staff and achieve goals. Ensures records of staff certifications are current and complete.
• Creates and schedules swim classes, and swim team practices and meets while supporting marketing efforts, program promotion, and YMCA fundraising activities and special events.
• Models strong relationship-building skills (including Listen First), responds promptly to member and community inquiries or concerns, and supports Swim Team Board and Branch Advisory Council meetings.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Collaborates with Grants Manager to track and maintain accurate data relating to aquatics grants and grant programs.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent.
• One to two years of related experience preferred: for example, as an aquatics coordinator or supervisor.
• Typical requirements within 30 days of hire include completion of:

Child Abuse Prevention for Supervisory Staff; Working with Program Volunteers; CPR; First Aid; AED; Bloodborne Pathogens; New Employee Orientation; Preventing Workplace Violence; Workplace Harassment.

• Completion of YMCA program-specific and trainer certifications.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive health benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision for full-time employees - 60% YMCA covered medical benefits for full-time employees and their families
• Retirement benefits – 10% employer contribution after completion of eligibility requirements
• Employee Assistance Program for all employees that is available to help employees overcome emotional, family, or other personal problems; offers guidance on financial and legal issues; improves health and wellness, and much more. 
• CPR/First Aid Certification provided by YMCA
• Use of YMCA of Superior California Fitness facilities, camps, and rental facilities
• Paid time off benefits for part-time and full-time employees upon completion of eligibility requirements
• Training and staff development for all employees