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