Associate Swim Program Director

Under the direct supervision of the Association Aquatics Director, the Associate Swim Program Director is responsible to manage the delivery, administration and evaluation of the swim lesson program and the swim lesson operations in accordance with the policies, procedures and standards established by The Gateway Family YMCA at the Five Points and Rahway Branches. Aquatic staff must be supportive of other employees and able to work together as a team. They must present themselves in an exemplary manner while on duty, be self-reliant and able to work well with parents and members. Assist in conducting in-service trainings with aquatics staff, as well as assist in general supervision of aquatic facilities. The Associate Swim Program Director has staff supervision, member involvement accountability and program development, delivery and evaluation responsibility. Key ingredients for a successful department include programs and services that are values centered and mission driven in an environment that is centered on member service.

Benefits offered to fulltime staff members of The Gateway Family YMCA include the option to open a 403-b Savings Plan, enrollment in the 401(a) retirement plan once qualifications set by the YMCA Retirement Fund are met, health benefits, life insurance, long-term disability, complementary family membership to our YMCA, and more.

• The ideal candidate must hold a current American Red Cross Lifeguard certification or equivalent, WSI or equivalent preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in sports management or comparable major.
• A minimum of two years of experience in Aquatics is required, along with prior supervisory experience.
• The candidate must demonstrate the ability to effectively organize programs, supervise staff, and support the maintenance of aquatic facilities.
• In addition to these qualifications, the role requires a motivated individual with a positive attitude who thrives in a team-oriented environment.
• Candidate must complete the YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor v6 certification within the first six months of employment.

• Oversee the planning, scheduling, and implementation of the day-to-day swim lesson program.
• Manages scheduling of swim lessons for all instructors based on: availability, skill level, and quality of classes.
• Communicates with participants/parents, instructors, Welcome Center staff, and Association Aquatics Director regarding all concerns and changes with swim lessons.
• Assists with recruiting, hiring, training and evaluating the swim instructor staff.
• Actively teaches aquatic classes, deck supervises or lifeguards as necessary.
• Manages the daily swim lesson records, ensuring attendance is accurately tracked and all required documentation—such as progress reports and certificates of achievement—is completed and up to date.
• Ensures aquatic equipment and facility areas are properly maintained, with a strong focus on cleanliness, safety, and operational readiness.
• Responsible for conducting regular swim instructor in-service trainings.
• Assists in conducting regular aquatics in-service trainings and safety audits, promoting a consistently safe aquatic environment.
• Adheres to all YMCA policies, procedures, and safety protocols, including emergency response procedures; accurately completes incident and accident reports as required.
• Fosters a positive and inclusive work environment by maintaining respectful and cooperative relationships with staff, members, and participants of all ages and backgrounds.
• Effectively teaches swim classes across all levels, serving as a role model for both staff and members.
• Manages the planning, organization, and promotion of aquatic programs and designated special events.
• Performs additional duties as assigned by the Association Aquatics Director.