Aquatics Director

Position Summary 

The Aquatic Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, daily operations, safety, and financial performance of the Aquatics Department. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, inclusive aquatic programs aligned with the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester mission to eliminate racism and empower women. 

The role requires a balance of administrative leadership and direct service delivery, ensuring strong program execution, staff performance, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Leadership & Development 

• Direct and oversee all aquatic programs, including:  
• Learn-to-Swim (group and private lessons) 
• Water fitness programs 
• Youth and community-based aquatic programs 
• Summer camp aquatics programming 
• Develop, implement, and evaluate programs to meet participation and revenue goals 
• Manage pool scheduling to maximize utilization while maintaining safety standards 
• Ensure instructional quality consistent with American Red Cross or equivalent standards 
• Collaborate closely with the Middies Swim Team Director to coordinate scheduling, shared pool space, and team development 
• Maintain active engagement in program delivery, dedicating approximately 50% of work time to direct service (instruction, lifeguarding, WSI) 

2. Pool Operations & Risk Management 

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and regulatory aquatic safety standards 
• Oversee pool maintenance, water quality, and inspections in partnership with facilities staff 
• Develop and enforce emergency action and risk management procedures 
• Monitor incident reporting and implement corrective actions as needed 

3. Staff Supervision & Human Resources Management 

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and supervise aquatic staff, including lifeguards and instructors 
• Develop staff schedules ensuring adequate coverage during all operating hours 
• Ensure all certifications remain current and compliant 
• Conduct performance evaluations, coaching, and corrective action when necessary 
• Facilitate ongoing training and professional development 

4. Financial Management 

• Develop and manage annual aquatic department budget 
• Monitor revenue streams (programs, private lessons, rentals) and control expenses 
• Track performance against revenue and participation targets 
• Identify opportunities for program growth and earned income 

5. Community Engagement & Membership Experience 

• Build partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local stakeholders 
• Promote aquatics programming to increase engagement and retention 
• Support membership growth and satisfaction 
• Represent the YWCA in community initiatives and events 

Performance Metrics (Key Performance Indicators – KPIs):

Program Delivery & Engagement: 

• 50% of time dedicated to direct service delivery (instruction/lifeguarding/WSI) 
• Achievement of program enrollment and participation goals 
• Improvement in participant retention rates 
• Successful implementation of summer camp aquatics programming 

Safety & Compliance: 

• Full compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements 
• Zero preventable safety incidents; timely reporting of all incidents 
• 100% staff certification compliance 
• Completion of required drills and safety trainings 

Staff Management:

• Maintenance of full staffing levels and coverage 
• Staff retention and engagement 
• Completion of performance evaluations and training plans 
• Compliance with staff-to-participant ratios 

Financial Performance:

• Adherence to approved budget 
• Achievement of revenue targets 
• Increased pool utilization rates 
• Cost control and efficient resource allocation 

Collaboration & Engagement: 

• Effective coordination with Middies Swim Team Director 
• Positive member satisfaction and feedback scores 
• Growth in community partnerships 
• Contribution to overall membership retention 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sports Management, or related field (or equivalent experience) 
• 3–5 years of aquatics management experience 
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience 
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills 
• Experience with learn-to-swim programming (American Red Cross or equivalent) 

Required Certifications 

• Lifeguard Certification (deep water) 
• CPR/AED and First Aid 
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent 
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) 

Preferred Certifications 

• American Red Cross WSI Trainer (WSIT) 
• Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) 
• Lifeguard Management certification 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in nonprofit or community-based organizations 
• Experience managing multi-use aquatic facilities 
• Competitive swim program management experience 

Work Environment & Schedule 

• Includes indoor pool and office environment 
• Requires standing, walking, and active participation in aquatic programs 
• Must be available for evenings and at least one weekend day 
• Exposure to pool chemicals and aquatic environment conditions 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to perform lifeguarding and swim instruction duties 
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations 
• Ability to lift up to 25–50 lbs as needed 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Salary: $65,000-$70,000
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and Paid Time Off
• Professional development opportunities

Organizational Overview 

The YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester serves over 4,000 individuals weekly through childcare, after-school programs, summer camp, aquatics, and mission-based services. The organization also provides housing for 193 low-income women. 

We are committed to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting dignity, justice, and opportunity for all. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.