Description:
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
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Direct and oversee all aquatic programs, including:
- Learn-to-Swim (group and private lessons)
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Water fitness programs
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Youth and community-based aquatic programs
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Summer camp aquatics programming
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Develop, implement, and evaluate programs to meet participation and revenue goals
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Manage pool scheduling to maximize utilization while maintaining safety standards
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Ensure instructional quality consistent with American Red Cross or equivalent standards
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Collaborate closely with the Middies Swim Team Director to coordinate scheduling, shared pool space, and team development
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Maintain active engagement in program delivery, dedicating approximately 50% of work time to direct service (instruction, lifeguarding, WSI)
2. Pool Operations & Risk Management
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Ensure compliance with all local, state, and regulatory aquatic safety standards
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Oversee pool maintenance, water quality, and inspections in partnership with facilities staff
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Develop and enforce emergency action and risk management procedures
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Monitor incident reporting and implement corrective actions as needed
3. Staff Supervision & Human Resources Management
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Recruit, hire, onboard, and supervise aquatic staff, including lifeguards and instructors
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Develop staff schedules ensuring adequate coverage during all operating hours
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Ensure all certifications remain current and compliant
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Conduct performance evaluations, coaching, and corrective action when necessary
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Facilitate ongoing training and professional development
4. Financial Management
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Develop and manage annual aquatic department budget
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Monitor revenue streams (programs, private lessons, rentals) and control expenses
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Track performance against revenue and participation targets
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Identify opportunities for program growth and earned income
5. Community Engagement & Membership Experience
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Build partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local stakeholders
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Promote aquatics programming to increase engagement and retention
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Support membership growth and satisfaction
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Represent the YWCA in community initiatives and events
Performance Metrics (Key Performance Indicators – KPIs):
Program Delivery & Engagement:
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50% of time dedicated to direct service delivery (instruction/lifeguarding/WSI)
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Achievement of program enrollment and participation goals
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Improvement in participant retention rates
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Successful implementation of summer camp aquatics programming
Safety & Compliance:
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Full compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements
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Zero preventable safety incidents; timely reporting of all incidents
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100% staff certification compliance
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Completion of required drills and safety trainings
Staff Management:
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Maintenance of full staffing levels and coverage
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Staff retention and engagement
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Completion of performance evaluations and training plans
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Compliance with staff-to-participant ratios
Financial Performance:
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Adherence to approved budget
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Achievement of revenue targets
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Increased pool utilization rates
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Cost control and efficient resource allocation
Collaboration & Engagement:
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Effective coordination with Middies Swim Team Director
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Positive member satisfaction and feedback scores
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Growth in community partnerships
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Contribution to overall membership retention
Requirements:
Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sports Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
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3–5 years of aquatics management experience
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Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience
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Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills
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Experience with learn-to-swim programming (American Red Cross or equivalent)
Required Certifications
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Lifeguard Certification (deep water)
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CPR/AED and First Aid
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Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent
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Certified Pool Operator (CPO)
Preferred Certifications
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American Red Cross WSI Trainer (WSIT)
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Lifeguard Instructor (LGI)
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Lifeguard Management certification
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience in nonprofit or community-based organizations
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Experience managing multi-use aquatic facilities
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Competitive swim program management experience
Work Environment & Schedule
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Includes indoor pool and office environment
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Requires standing, walking, and active participation in aquatic programs
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Must be available for evenings and at least one weekend day
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Exposure to pool chemicals and aquatic environment conditions
Physical Requirements
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Ability to perform lifeguarding and swim instruction duties
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Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations
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Ability to lift up to 25–50 lbs as needed
Compensation & Benefits
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Salary: $65,000-$70,000
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Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and Paid Time Off
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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.
