Mitchell YMCA Aquatics Director

Make Waves. Develop Leaders. Strengthen Community.

Are you passionate about aquatics, developing people, and creating experiences that make a difference? The YMCA of Mitchell County is looking for an enthusiastic, relationship-driven Aquatics Director to lead our aquatic department and help individuals of all ages discover the benefits of swimming, water safety, and healthy living.

This is an opportunity to combine your aquatic expertise with your passion for leadership - building a strong team, growing meaningful programs, and helping ensure our Y remains a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and connected.

If you're ready to bring your energy, ideas, and leadership to a career with purpose, we'd love to meet you!

About the Position

Reporting to the Branch Executive Director, the Aquatics Director provides overall leadership and operational oversight for the YMCA of Mitchell County's aquatic department.

This position balances program quality, staff development, operational safety, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement to ensure the department delivers meaningful experiences while supporting the branch's goals and long-term sustainability.

As a member of the branch leadership team, the Aquatics Director helps shape departmental priorities, strengthens team performance, and promotes a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do

Aquatic Programs & Development

• Plan, coordinate, implement, and evaluate aquatic programs, swim lessons, swim meets, and special events.
• Monitor participation, program outcomes, and community feedback to identify opportunities for improvement and growth.
• Create positive, welcoming experiences for participants of all ages and abilities.

Leadership & Staff Development

• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, schedule, and evaluate aquatic staff and volunteers.
• Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and professional development.
• Coordinate required staff certifications and training, maintaining accurate records and appropriate staffing coverage.
• Foster a collaborative, engaged, and accountable team culture.

Aquatic Operations, Safety & Compliance

• Oversee daily pool operations in accordance with YMCA policies, applicable regulations, and established safety standards.
• Monitor water quality, pool conditions, equipment, and maintenance needs.
• Maintain accurate operational and chemical testing records.
• Ensure emergency preparedness through staff training, safety drills, response procedures, and incident documentation.

Financial & Resource Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor the aquatic department budget.
• Monitor program revenue, expenditures, staffing costs, and resource allocation.
• Support responsible financial stewardship and sustainable program operations.

Community Engagement & Collaboration

• Build relationships with members, staff, and community partners to strengthen participation and expand water safety education.
• Support membership growth, fundraising, outreach, and YMCA special events.
• Collaborate with branch leadership and other departments to advance organizational priorities.

Perform other related duties as assigned in support of the YMCA's mission and operational needs.

What You'll Bring

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Two or more years of related aquatics experience preferred, including supervisory or program coordination responsibilities.
• Swim team or competitive swimming leadership experience preferred.

Required Certifications & Training

Candidates must hold a current Lifeguard Certification upon hire and complete the following requirements within the designated timeframes:

• Within 30 days: CPR, First Aid, AED, Hazard Communication, and Bloodborne Pathogens training.
• Within 90 days: Lifeguard Trainer Certification, Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Certification.
• Additional training as assigned by YMCA leadership.

Professional Skills

• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to coach, develop, and motivate a diverse team.
• Working knowledge of aquatic programming, pool operations, and established safety practices.
• Ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining sound judgment and attention to detail.
• Commitment to relationship-building, professional growth, and responsible resource management.

Additional Requirements

• Successful completion of required background screening in accordance with YMCA policy and applicable law.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as needed.

Work Environment & Physical Expectations

This position works in an active indoor aquatic environment and administrative setting, with regular exposure to humidity, water, noise, pool chemicals, and wet or slippery surfaces.

Responsibilities involve standing, walking, bending, reaching, swimming, and performing administrative tasks. The position may require lifting or moving aquatic equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds, with appropriate assistance when necessary.

The Aquatics Director must be able to maintain required swimming and rescue proficiency, recognize potential hazards, and respond promptly and effectively to aquatic emergencies, including performing rescues and other procedures consistent with required certifications.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Why the YMCA?

At the YMCA of the High Country, we believe strong communities begin with people who care.

Our work extends beyond programs and facilities. We create opportunities for individuals and families to develop confidence, build meaningful relationships, and lead healthier, more connected lives.

Guided by our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility , we strive to create a workplace where employees can grow professionally, contribute their unique strengths, and see the impact of their work every day.

As Aquatics Director, you'll have the opportunity to lead an important part of that mission while helping strengthen water safety, staff development, and aquatic opportunities throughout Mitchell County.

Ready to make a difference? Apply today and help shape the future of aquatics at the YMCA of Mitchell County!

Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 38.0 – 42.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person