Aquatics Director

Lead the Way in Aquatics!

As the Aquatics Director, you'll lead the aquatics team and programs at your YMCA branch while creating a safe, clean, welcoming, and high-quality experience for members and participants. You'll oversee staff, programming, scheduling, budgets, and daily pool operations while building strong relationships within the community. 

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead, monitor, and evaluate aquatics programs in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
• Supervise, develop, and schedule Lifeguards, Swim Instructors, and other aquatics staff.
• Maintain safe, clean, and well-organized pool operations.
• Implement pool schedules and oversee daily aquatics programming.
• Interview prospective aquatics employees and assist with onboarding and new-hire paperwork.
• Manage staff scheduling to maintain appropriate coverage while meeting budget goals.
• Assist the Executive Director with the aquatics budget, payroll, and department purchasing.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations.
• Teach CPR, Lifeguard, and YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor training as needed.
• Complete bi-monthly payroll and required branch reports, newsletters, and impact reports.

Why This Job Is a Great Fit

• Lead a team that plays an important role in creating safe and positive experiences for members and families.
• Make a direct impact on aquatics programming and the overall member experience.
• Build leadership, staff development, budgeting, and program management skills.
• Represent the YMCA and strengthen relationships throughout the Birmingham community.

Perks & Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package:Medical, dental, and vision coverage (with significant employer contribution)
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Generous retirement plan with 12% employer contribution once eligible
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• YMCA perks:
  • Free YMCA membership for you and your household
  • Significant discounts on YMCA programs (including childcare, after-school programs, and summer camps)
• Work environment: Flexible schedule and supportive team culture
• Growth: Real opportunities to learn and expand your skills
• Mission: Work that makes a difference in your community every single day

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience/knowledge in aquatics management or a related field preferred.

• 1–3 years of relevant experience preferred.

• Supervisory and staff development experience preferred.

• Knowledge of budgets and financial management.

• Strong written, verbal, customer service, and computer skills.

• Proven ability to build strong community relationships.

• Current Base Lifeguard Certification

• Must obtain LGI and CPO certifications within 6 months of hire.

• Ability to represent the YMCA in a mature and professional manner.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage shifting priorities.

• Successful completion of required background screening.

• Willingness to travel within the YMCA service area as needed.

Expectations

• Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming pool environment.
• Follow all YMCA policies, procedures, and aquatics standards.
• Provide ongoing supervision, training, and feedback to employees and volunteers.
• Follow required abuse risk management and screening practices.
• Ensure employees and volunteers maintain appropriate boundaries with children and teens.
• Promote the YMCA's values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

What Success Looks Like

• Aquatics programs are safe, well-staffed, well-organized, and consistently meet YMCA standards.
• Staff are trained, supported, and developed into a strong aquatics team.
• Pool operations remain clean, safe, efficient, and member-focused.
• Programs and staffing operate effectively within budget.
• Members, participants, employees, and community partners have a positive experience with the YMCA aquatics department.

Apply Today

Ready to make a splash and lead an aquatics team that makes a difference? Apply today and bring your leadership, passion, and commitment to the YMCA of Greater Birmingham!