AQUATICS COORDINATOR JOB DESCRIPTION

Coordinating a community aquatics program sounds straightforward until certification records lapse, shifts go uncovered, or pool chemistry readings fall outside safe range. Solid, day-to-day program ownership prevents those failures. The Aquatics Coordinator holds operational accountability for staff scheduling, American Red Cross certification compliance, and swim lesson delivery within a nonprofit or community recreation setting. This is a mid-level individual contributor role that answers to an Aquatics Manager or Branch Director and carries direct responsibility for both participant safety and program enrollment numbers.

As the Aquatics Coordinator, you deliver safe, fully staffed aquatic programming by supervising lifeguards and swim instructors, maintaining ACA compliance, and owning the daily administrative functions that keep lessons, rentals, and special events running on schedule. The role sits within the aquatics department of a nonprofit or community recreation organization and reports to an Aquatics Manager or equivalent branch leader, working alongside facility maintenance staff and program participants of all ages.

Career Impact: Earning and maintaining American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor and CPO credentials in this role establishes a verifiable certification profile that carries real weight when advancing into Aquatics Manager or Recreation Director positions.

Business Impact: Participant safety and program enrollment depend directly on how well this role manages shift coverage, water chemistry logs, and staff certification records - gaps in any of these affect the organization's license to operate.

Growth Opportunity: Exposure to budget monitoring, payroll processing, and risk management planning builds the operational fluency needed to move into full program management or branch leadership within community recreation.

• Lead daily supervision of lifeguards, swim instructors, and attendants to maintain ACA compliance and association safety standards.
• Schedule aquatics staff across all program areas to ensure proper coverage during lessons, rentals, and special events.
• Monitor pool water chemistry, maintain accurate chemical logs, and coordinate maintenance of filtration and circulation systems.
• Conduct in-service training, safety drills, and certification tracking to keep all staff credentials current and on record.
• Instruct swim lessons and serve as lead lifeguard or backup coverage when staffing gaps require direct intervention.
• Coordinate record keeping for attendance, expenditures, payroll submissions, and program statistical reports.
• Evaluate program enrollment and quality, identify gaps, and assist in developing new offerings aligned with participant needs.
• Partner with facility and program leadership to enforce risk management procedures and execute Emergency Action Plans when required.

• Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation, Leisure Management, Kinesiology, or equivalent work experience.
• Two or more years of aquatics experience, with demonstrated responsibility for staff supervision and program delivery.
• Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and Lifeguard Instructor Certification, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.
• Current CPR/AED/O2 and First Aid certifications, with CPO certification obtained or in progress within 60 days.
• Knowledge of pool water chemistry, safety inspection procedures, and applicable state and local health codes governing public pool operation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with ability to interact effectively with participants, parents, and staff from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate records, manage competing priorities, and work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be at least 18 years of age with reliable transportation and physical ability to lifeguard and demonstrate aquatic skills as required.

• American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification or equivalent swim instruction credential.
• Experience with nonprofit program administration including budget tracking, payroll processing, or membership management.
• Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) designation or active progress toward it.
• Prior experience facilitating CPR/AED/First Aid instruction or lifeguard recertification courses.

• Staff certification compliance rate, measured as the percentage of active staff with current required credentials.
• Shift coverage rate, tracking the proportion of scheduled aquatic hours with no uncovered positions.
• Pool chemistry log completion rate, reflecting consistent daily testing and documentation against safe operating ranges.
• Program enrollment count per session cycle, indicating whether aquatic offerings are meeting or exceeding participation targets.
• Incident report turnaround time, measuring how quickly completed accident and emergency reports are submitted after an event.
• Typical tools: scheduling and membership management platforms (commonly activity management or recreation registration systems), pool chemistry testing equipment logs maintained in standard spreadsheet formats.

• Base Salary Range: $38,000 to $52,000 annually, depending on experience and organization size.
• Bonus: typically not standard, some organizations offer seasonal or performance-based supplements.
• Equity: not applicable in nonprofit community recreation settings.
• Health Benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage, quality varies by organization size.
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually plus paid holidays, some organizations include sick leave separately.
• Common Perks: facility membership or pool access, professional development funding for certification renewals, and reduced program fees for dependents.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, and local law. Employment in this position is contingent on satisfactory completion of a background check, which may include a review of criminal history and verification of required certifications. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Reporting to department leadership, the Aquatics Coordinator delivers comprehensive aquatic programming at Bachman Pool by planning and implementing courses, special events, and competitions while ensuring full compliance with State, Local, CDC, and environmental regulations. Working alongside marketing, finance, and national aquatic organizations, this role shapes efficient pool operations and drives community participation through targeted promotion and sound fiscal management.

Areas of Ownership

• Supervise part-time staff in the absence of supervisor and conduct in-service training for part-time staff.
• Plan and implement aquatic programs including scheduling courses, developing new programs, and conducting special events and competitions.
• Analyze Bachman Pool operations and implement changes to improve efficiency, service, and productivity.
• Identify marketing opportunities, create marketing materials, attend events, and conduct presentations to promote aquatic activities.
• Ensure adherence to State and Local laws governing public pool operation, follow all environmental and CDC guidelines, and maintain all required documentation.
• Enforce procedures and policies and perform daily collection of revenue in accordance with cash handling procedures.
• Maintain financial records and generate reports.
• Pursue involvement in local, state, and national aquatic/waterpark organizations and serve on department-wide task forces or committees.

Background & Experience

• Bachelor's degree preferred with one year full-time experience in aquatics program development and pool facility administration, or Associate degree in recreation administration, leisure study, education, or health field plus three (3) years of required experience.
• Lifeguard Instructor Certification.
• First Aid/CPR for the Professional Rescuer.
• Water Safety Instructor Certification.
• Swim Coaches Certification and Pool Operator Certification.

The Aquatics Coordinator owns the coordination, supervision, and operation of the City's municipal swimming pools and splash pads, overseeing operational licenses, concessions, and the full aquatic program staff. Reporting to city leadership and working alongside the Aquatics Director and Program Manager of Marketing, this role shapes safe, well-run aquatic services and responsive public programming for the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate aquatic staff and interview prospective employees, ensure all certifications are valid and complete paperwork for all seasonal and full-time staff.
• Train new and returning lifeguards and train staff in the proper use of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Make daily rounds of pools to observe performance and conduct performance evaluations for all employees.
• Provide on-site management in the absence of Pool Managers and work with Aquatics Director to develop training programs for Pool Managers, Lifeguards, and Concession staff.
• Oversee all operational aspects of City pools and splash pads including scheduling, safety, operational licenses, budget, concessions, personnel management, and coordination of swim and dive teams.
• Direct planning, promotion, and implementation of programs, activities, special events, recruit program instructors, and assemble information for promotional materials.
• Plan and execute facility maintenance plans, maintain preventative maintenance schedules, and assist the Aquatics & Facilities Maintenance Specialist with mechanical operations.
• Maintain contact with the general public and work with the Program Manager of Marketing to communicate aquatic information including special events, programming, and general information.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Parks and Recreation, Leisure Management, or related field.
• Aquatic Facility Operation (AFO) and Certified Pool Operation (CPO) certifications required, or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Possession of the American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor license required, or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) required for higher level.
• Three (3) to seven (7) years of related work experience depending on level.

Embedded within the aquatics center team, the Aquatics Coordinator assists the Aquatics Manager with oversight of daily operations including staff scheduling, program development, and record keeping. Working closely with Lead Lifeguards, Swim Instructors, and Attendants, this role delivers responsive administrative support and direct instructional coverage that keeps the center running safely and efficiently.

Core Functions

• Schedule aquatics staff and monitor and report to Aquatics Manager on work performance of Lead Lifeguards, Swim Instructors, Lifeguards, and Attendants, and monitor ACA compliance.
• Assist in the planning, directing, and guidance of swim lessons and lifeguarding classes and activities.
• Act as Swim Instructor and/or Lead Lifeguard for assigned programs.
• Coordinate Swim Lessons and field trips (rentals).
• Assist the Aquatics Manager with timely and accurate record keeping including statistical reports, accounting of expenditures, and other directed reports.
• Ensure attractive appearance, operational function, and general upkeep of the aquatic center including equipment, and assist in procurement, maintenance, and repair as necessary.
• Participate in designated staff meetings, training, and professional development courses as directed by supervisor.
• Serve as first-line backup coverage for vacant shifts and provide coverage whenever possible.

Qualifications & Experience

• High school degree or equivalent, two or more years of college preferred.
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and Lifeguard Instructor Certification required (within 90 days of employment).
• American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification recommended, Certified Pool Operator strongly recommended.
• Certified Water Aerobics instructor/Silver Sneakers required within 90 days of employment.
• Two years of related work experience.
• Knowledge of all four competitive strokes and two recreation/survival strokes, and experience working with infants, children, and adults in group settings.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, e-mail, and Internet.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to interact with co-workers and the public in a positive, professional manner, and work with people of diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to maintain a self-motivated, self-directed schedule and address multiple projects in a timely, detail-oriented manner, ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Reporting to YMCA association leadership, the Aquatics Coordinator leads day-to-day supervision of aquatics staff through recruiting, hiring, training, and evaluation while ensuring pool chemistry, safety drills, and program quality meet all association standards. Partnering with pool and program teams, this role builds a compliant, community-centered aquatics operation that upholds YMCA core values across every program area.

Primary Duties

• Provide leadership and day-to-day supervision of aquatics staff including recruiting, hiring, training, scheduling, correcting, and evaluating staff to ensure all association standards are met.
• Ensure quality lifeguarding and aquatics programs and maintain program areas and equipment with high attention to safety and cleanliness.
• Order and stock aquatics supplies and assist with program promotion.
• Ensure aquatics staff certifications are current and maintain up-to-date records.
• Perform safety drills, employee in-services, and assist in bi-weekly payroll duties for aquatics staff.
• Perform as a lifeguard and teach swim lessons as necessary.
• Ensure proper pool chemistry and maintenance and keep proper pool chemical logs.
• Assist in scheduling lessons, private parties, and backyard lessons and manage emails and phone calls related to aquatics.
• Know and review AMA YMCA Aquatics Safety Plan and all emergency procedures, respond immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, and complete related reports.
• Apply all YMCA policies and exemplify core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and faith, respond to challenges with timely solutions and remain calm under pressure.

Skills & Qualifications

• CPR/AED/O2, First Aid, current YMCA Lifeguard or equivalent, and Swim Instructor certifications required (or ability to obtain within 90 days), CPO or POOL certified or ability to attain.
• Two years of experience in aquatics including lifeguarding, swim lesson instruction, and training.
• Ability to make good decisions, exercise mature judgment, lead and motivate others, and demonstrate effective human relations and program management skills.
• Basic computer knowledge and office skills required.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups from all social and economic segments of the community.
• Must be minimum age of 18 and have reliable transportation.
• Child Abuse Prevention, Understanding Your Biases, Anti-Harassment, Blood Borne Pathogens, Hazard Communication Awareness, and Slips, Trips, and Falls trainings required within 30 days of hire.

Sitting at the intersection of aquatics operations and resort hospitality, the Aquatics Coordinator leads the aquatic department's training, hiring, and operational strategies while maintaining compliance with all legal, cleanliness, and sanitation standards. Operating across the full Chula Vista Resort staff structure, this role shapes a cooperative, guest-focused environment where service quality and sound decision-making protect both the guest experience and the organization.

Duties

• Maintain operational effectiveness of the aquatic department while delivering superior quality and service, and ensure all standards are consistent with goals and objectives established by the resort.
• Work with direct reports and peripheral departments to develop and coordinate training, hiring, and operational strategies to achieve each area's goals and objectives.
• Maintain compliance with all legal requirements, codes, cleanliness, sanitation standards, and safeguard the confidentiality of customer, company, and employee information.
• Take all opinions and suggestions under advisement before making decisions of major proportion while assuming full responsibility for those decisions, and maintain cooperative working relationships with guests and the entire staff.
• Handle difficult situations tactfully, demonstrate good judgment in solving problems, recognize and deal with priorities, and meet deadlines for time-sensitive activities.
• Complete all obligations, evaluate all personnel under supervision in accordance with established procedure, and maintain a professional appearance appropriate for the position.
• Ensure prompt, friendly, quality service and use proper language with guests and subordinates in person and over the radio.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required, Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality or related field preferred.
• Two years of Management Experience in a related field required, five years preferred.
• Knowledge of all facets of hotel operations including guest relations as they apply to Chula Vista Resort.
• Ability to work effectively with others, think creatively regarding resort needs, solve problems, seize opportunities, and clearly define objectives.
• Willingness to take the most effective role deemed necessary by director and maintain a clean, sanitary, organized work station.

A key member of the aquatics team, the Assistant Aquatics Coordinator shapes safe facility operations by scheduling and supervising lifeguards, instructing up to 15 hours of aquatics classes weekly, and maintaining pool chemistry in coordination with the Aquatics Manager and Building Facility Managers. Collaborating across program and facility teams, this role builds consistent aquatic standards and ensures inventory, coverage, and safety systems are always in place for patrons.

Functions

• Schedule and supervise lifeguards.
• Instruct 10 to 15 hours a week of Aquatics Classes.
• Conduct regular pool maintenance and work with the Aquatics Manager and Assistant Aquatics Manager to maintain appropriate water chemistry ensuring a safe aquatic environment.
• Lifeguard as needed.
• Participate in ongoing program evaluation and development of new offerings, including Special Event programming and annual department objectives.
• Work with Aquatics Staff to create and maintain uniform standards for Aquatics classes.
• Monitor Aquatics Centers regularly to assure safety of all users, diagnose potential problems, maintain high cleanliness standards, and regulate appropriate facility use.
• Work with Aquatics Manager and Building Facility Managers to ensure quality of pool chemistry and air quality, and assure appropriate coverage during all operating hours.
• Implement systems to assure inventory and supplies are available for proper facility functioning.

Experience & Qualifications

• Degree in related field or comparable experience.
• Must maintain current certifications including lifeguarding, CPR/AED, First Aid, and all certifications required by the Aquatics Manager.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to develop relationships with members of all ages.
• Candidates must be able to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted repeatedly throughout the workday.
• Frequent walking, demonstrating and assisting with exercise movements including bending, stretching, lifting, pushing, pulling, and squatting, ability to be in water for long periods during the day.

Consistent aquatic program quality across a YMCA branch depends on the Aquatics Coordinator, who creates, develops, and implements new and existing programs while managing staff recruitment, payroll monitoring, and budget oversight. Based within the branch program team and accountable to YMCA association standards, this role advances community inclusion and fundraising through empathetic leadership and high-quality program delivery.

Accountabilities

• Create, develop, and implement new and existing programs, manage assigned program areas to ensure compliance with all applicable YMCA standards and continually strive for the highest quality.
• Expand participation in assigned programs, evaluate and review them to ensure consistent quality, and assist in chemical testing and mechanical maintenance.
• Coordinate communication with assigned program participants and monitor scheduled hours to ensure payroll achieves budget goals.
• Determine staffing needs, assist in staff recruitment, conduct orientations, and manage, supervise, and evaluate staff to ensure satisfactory job performance.
• Prepare and submit time and attendance information.
• Model and teach YMCA values, champion inclusion, and ensure high-level services that differentiate the YMCA, build relationships, listen empathetically, and provide staff with feedback, coaching, guidance, and support.
• Hold staff accountable for high-quality results, develop and manage best practices through team engagement, cultivate fundraising relationships, and effectively create and manage budget.

Technical Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Red Cross or equivalent Lifeguard certification.
• One to two years of related program and management experience.
• Demonstrated computer skills.
• Additional training to be completed within 30 days of hire and maintained throughout employment.

As the Head Lifeguard / Aquatics Coordinator, this role delivers frontline pool safety and facility upkeep by performing regular lifeguard duties, conducting water chemistry testing, and maintaining filtration and circulation systems within AAG policies. The aquatics operation relies on this work to sustain safe, clean, patron-ready pool environments and accurate chemical logs across all scheduled shifts.

Activities

• Perform regular lifeguard duties as necessary.
• Conduct regular pool water testing to recognize adjustments required in water chemistry.
• Maintain the filtration/circulation systems and the general pool area.
• Provide on-desk support for patrons and the aquatics team.
• Keep accurate logs and inventory of supplies and chemicals.
• Maintain the highest standards of safety while providing a safe, fun, and clean environment.
• Keep all work areas clean, safe, and professional and operate within the policies and procedures of AAG.
• Perform other duties including swim lessons as required by management.

Position Requirements

• Current Lifeguard certification required, Lifeguard Instructor certification preferred.
• Must be willing to earn CPO license within 60 days.
• Must be able to read, understand, and implement maintenance and inspection procedures.
• Must possess oral and written English communication skills and be able to communicate effectively with guests and employees.
• Must be at least 18 years old, required to work in various weather conditions and available to work flexible hours including weekends, holidays, and overtime.
• Attention to detail.

Aquatics Coordinator manages approximately 75 lifeguards and lifeguard supervisors across multiple university aquatic facilities, overseeing recruitment, in-service training, payroll, and safe operations that exceed county and state health codes. The work directly supports Recreation Services' mission by building comprehensive swim lesson and safety certification programs in collaboration with the Assistant Director for Aquatics, student organizations, and facility coordinators.

Operational Focus

• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, schedule, and perform payroll functions for approximately 75 lifeguards and lifeguard supervisors, assist in training, supervision, development, and payroll for Swim Instructors, Lifeguarding Instructors, and CPR Instructors.
• Develop and oversee monthly lifeguard staff in-service training and ensure appropriate staffing for all aquatic programs, act as supervisor or lifeguard on duty as necessary.
• Assist in development of a comprehensive aquatic program including swim lessons, health and safety programs, CPR/AED/First Aid, and lifeguard certification classes.
• Manage multiple aquatic facilities to ensure safe consistent operations exceeding applicable county and state health codes, assist with maintaining pool equipment and cleanliness.
• Collaborate with departments and student organizations to offer creative programs and events, market, coordinate, and supervise programs and events as needed.
• Assist facility coordinators with supervising recreation facility operations during evening, night, and weekend hours.
• Resolve patron facility use issues, enforce policies and procedures, assist with risk management and customer service plans, and coordinate Emergency Action Plans while on duty.

Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• Bachelor's Degree required, Master's degree preferred in recreation administration, sport management, leisure studies, physical education, kinesiology, or comparable field.
• American Red Cross Lifeguarding, Lifeguarding Instructor, and First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor certifications required, WSI certification preferred.
• Minimum 2 years' experience managing aquatic facilities and lifeguards.
• Strong communication skills and knowledgeable in all aspects of pool management, emergency action planning, and aquatic safety.
• Ability to train and teach others and work effectively with ethnically and culturally diverse constituencies.

The Aquatics Coordinator owns daily pool operations and staff scheduling for a YMCA branch, assisting the Branch Executive with planning, development, management, and supervision of all aquatics programs. Working alongside the Director, vendors, and program participants, this role enables safe, well-staffed aquatic programming that meets all regulatory standards and supports a positive member experience.

Key Deliverables

• Oversee daily pool operations and coordinate scheduling of aquatics staff to ensure proper program delivery.
• Assist the Director in training and supervision of all necessary personnel to deliver each program component.
• Keep records of aquatics staff certifications, ensure all staff maintain current certifications, and maintain records of attendance and monitor payments for each program participant.
• Maintain pool, equipment, and grounds to meet all necessary program and regulatory standards, maintain relationships with vendors and member service with parents and program participants.
• Oversee birthday party lead and assistants and fill gaps in lifeguard and swim instructor schedules.
• Follow risk management and safety systems, practices, and training for participants and staff, and follow accident report procedures and policies.
• Submit payroll for supervisor approval and perform other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

• Current CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, First Aid, and current YMCA Lifeguard or equivalent certifications required.
• Two years of college or equivalent experience in an aquatics position required, prior experience or training in staff supervision and management preferred.
• Must be 18 years of age and maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills, must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
• Must become proficient within 60 days in the use of Reclique Core.

Reporting to the Assistant Director of Facilities and Outdoor Programming, the Aquatics Coordinator leads recruitment, training, and evaluation of Aquatics student staff while developing and implementing a comprehensive aquatics program that encompasses swim lessons, pool parties, water safety instruction, and a 3-year strategic plan. Partnering with Business Services, University Facilities Management, and departmental staff, this role builds fiscally sound, regulation-compliant aquatic services that advance the Student Affairs strategic plan at Mississippi State University.

Role Responsibilities

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate Aquatics student staff in the positions of Head Lifeguard, Lead Swim Instructor, Swim Instructors, and Lifeguards, incorporating Departmental Vision, Mission, and Values into training and development.
• Develop, promote, and implement a comprehensive Aquatics program including registration, scheduling of pool parties, swim lessons, and special events.
• Maintain records and reports of day-to-day pool operations including water clarity, chemistry tests, maintenance schedules, repairs, and daily safety inspections.
• Inspect and maintain all safety and maintenance equipment and coordinate repair requests with Building Maintenance Supervisor, University Facilities Management, and Business Manager.
• Develop, direct, and manage water safety instruction programs including American Red Cross swimming lessons, lifeguard training, and other appropriate courses.
• Implement risk management procedures including pool safety and emergency action plans and develop and facilitate related training for program participants.
• Work collaboratively with departmental staff to define facility needs and schedule appropriately, develop, interpret, review, and enforce policies and procedures related to pool operation and swim instruction.
• Work with Business Services Staff to develop and manage Aquatics program budgets, payroll, spending, and revenue from external programming.
• Work with the Assistant Director to create, implement, and regularly review an ongoing 3-year plan for the Aquatics program aligned with Divisional priorities and the Student Affairs strategic plan.

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills and proficiency in computer utilization.
• Ability to foster a positive, cooperative work environment and work independently or as a member of a team.
• Ability to plan, organize, and implement aquatics programs, services, and events.
• Ability to supervise and train student employees including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Employee development and performance management skills.
• Ability to comply with and enforce all policies and regulations of Mississippi State University and University Recreation programs.