YMCA Aquatics Director

Make Waves. Build Leaders. Save Lives.

At the Y, we’re more than a gym or pool — we’re a cause-driven organization focused on strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As Aquatics Director, you’ll play a vital leadership role in advancing our mission while building a culture of excellence, safety, and engagement.

The YMCA Alexandria is seeking a passionate, mission-driven Aquatics Director to lead one of our most impactful program areas. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love developing teams, and are energized by creating safe, high-quality aquatic experiences for the community — this is your opportunity to lead with purpose.

Position: Aquatics Director                Salary: $55,000.00

Position Overview

The Aquatics Director oversees all aquatic operations, programming, staffing, and safety initiatives. This role is responsible for ensuring high-quality service delivery, maximizing pool utilization, managing budgets, and developing a strong, engaged aquatics team.  You’ll report to the Executive Director and collaborate closely with association leadership while directly supervising Aquatics leadership staff, lifeguards, swim instructors, and pool operators.

What you will do at the Y:

Program Leadership & Operations

• Lead and implement innovative aquatic programs aligned with YMCA mission and community needs
• Maximize pool utilization and member satisfaction
• Schedule aquatic programs, classes, and special events
• Support swim team operations including scheduling, marketing, and finances

Team Development & Supervision

• Recruit, hire, train, coach, and develop aquatics staff
• Conduct performance management and ongoing in-service training
• Build strong team culture focused on safety, professionalism, and service excellence

Financial & Administrative Oversight

• Manage departmental budget and meet financial goals
• Assist branch leadership with planning, scheduling, and operational strategy
• Maintain current certifications, licenses, and inspection readiness

Member Experience & Community Engagement

• Deliver exceptional service to members, families, and community partners
• Serve as an “Aquatics Ambassador” welcoming and engaging participants
• Promote YMCA values and character development initiatives

Who You Are:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Minimum 5 years of relevant aquatics leadership experience
• Strong background in program management, staff development, and operations

Certifications (Required)

• YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguard Certification
• CPR Pro and First Aid
• Two aquatic training proficiencies

Skills & Competencies

• Proven leadership and team-building ability
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Budget and financial management experience
• Strategic planning and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to YMCA mission and values

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 40+ pounds
• Meet all YMCA Lifeguarding physical prerequisites
• Swim 500 yards continuously
• Perform rescues and emergency response skills
• Ability to see and hear participants in distress

Why You’ll Love Working at the Y:

We support you inside and outside the workplace. When you join the YMCA, you join a community focused on growth, belonging, and purpose.

• Mission-Driven Work: Every day, you’ll help families gain access to essential child care services.
• Competitive Pay: $55,000, depending on experience.
• Robust Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents.
• Free YMCA Membership: Full access for you and your family.
• Retirement Support: The Y contributes 10% of your salary into a retirement plan, with optional 403(b) and Roth plans available.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for ongoing training, leadership development, and advancement.

Be Part of Something Bigger—Apply Today!

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and strive to create a welcoming environment where all staff, members, and families feel respected, supported, and included.