Aquatics Director

Lead One of the Region's Most Exciting Community Aquatics Programs

The Athens YWCO is entering an exciting new chapter, and we're looking for an exceptional leader to help shape the future of our aquatics programs.

This is more than a traditional Aquatics Director position. We're seeking a strategic, innovative leader who is passionate about creating exceptional experiences, building high-performing teams, growing participation, and developing programs that strengthen our community.

As Aquatics Director, you'll oversee every aspect of our aquatics operation—from swim lessons and lifeguard management to programming, safety, member engagement, and revenue growth. You'll have the opportunity to introduce new ideas, expand programming, and help establish one of the premier community aquatics programs in the region.

If you're energized by leadership, innovation, and making a meaningful impact, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do

• Lead all aquatics operations including swim lessons, aquatic fitness, recreational and lap swimming, special events, and water safety programs.
• Recruit, train, coach, schedule, and develop a high-performing team of lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatic staff.
• Create innovative programming that increases participation, member satisfaction, and earned revenue.
• Ensure the highest standards of safety, risk management, emergency preparedness, and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and monitor KPIs including participation, retention, customer satisfaction, revenue, utilization, and program outcomes.
• Build an outstanding member experience through a welcoming, inclusive, customer-focused environment.
• Partner with leadership across the organization to promote aquatics programming and support organizational initiatives.
• Collaborate with Facilities to maintain exceptional pool operations and water quality.
• Manage program budgets, scheduling, supplies, certifications, and operational records.

We're Looking For Someone Who

• Loves building teams and developing people.
• Has a passion for customer service and community engagement.
• Thinks strategically while paying attention to operational details.
• Enjoys creating new programs and growing participation.
• Is calm under pressure and committed to safety.
• Uses data to improve performance.
• Wants to help shape the future of a growing organization.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in recreation, aquatics, exercise science, business, education, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Five or more years of progressively responsible aquatics, recreation, fitness, or pool operations experience.
• Supervisory or leadership experience.
• Current (or ability to obtain) Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, First Aid, and applicable pool operator certifications.
• Experience managing safety-sensitive operations and achieving program or revenue goals.

Preferred:

• Experience with a YMCA, YWCO, recreation center, municipal pool, community center, health club, or similar organization.
• Experience launching new programs and growing participation.
• Experience with budgets, performance metrics, and operational planning.

Why Join the Athens YWCO?

The Athens YWCO has served our community for more than 120 years and is entering an exciting period of growth and transformation.

• Exceptional customer experiences
• Innovative programming
• Community impact
• Professional excellence
• Strong organizational culture
• Continuous improvement

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Paid Time Off
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Certification support
• Opportunity for career growth

Schedule

This is a full-time position. Candidates should be available to work a flexible schedule that may include occasional mornings, evenings, weekends, and emergency response as needed.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're an energetic leader who is passionate about aquatics, team development, and creating outstanding experiences for our members, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help shape the future of aquatics at the Athens YWCO.