Senior Director of Aquatics and Safety

Senior Director of Aquatics and Safety

Full time, EXEMPT multi-TEAM LEADER position; YMCA of Greater Nashua 

Nashua & MERRIMACK LOCATIONS

JOIN OUR LEADERSHIP WAVE

The YMCA of Greater Nashua seeks an experienced Senior Aquatics Director to elevate and unify our aquatics operations across two branches and a camp waterfront. This is a pivotal role for an inspiring leader who thrives on developing people, enhancing safety, and creating welcoming, high-quality aquatics experiences that help all ages learn, grow, and belong.

OUR Y AND OUR REGION

The YMCA of Greater Nashua is a well-respected association and a leader in the region. The City of Nashua, New Hampshire is situated 45 minutes from Boston, and everything a major US City has to offer, less than an hour to the beautiful public beaches dotting the New Hampshire coastline and an hour to the White Mountains which offer many options for the outdoor enthusiast.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Senior Aquatics Director will ensure consistent delivery of the Y mission, quality service and commitment to safety across all aquatics facilities, including two pools and a camp waterfront. Our aquatics programs will help people of all ages celebrate achievements, build connections with others and help them feel a sense of belonging through engaging staff and programs. This work will include building a team of aquatics leaders, lifeguards and swim instructors dedicated to providing safe and fun environments.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

We provide our full-time staff with a comprehensive medical and dental plan, paid time off (sick, holidays, vacation), a Family YMCA Membership, a discount on classes and team sports and Y-funded retirement contributions after two years of qualified service.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES:

The Senior Aquatics Director must be able to work with people of all ages and backgrounds. Candidates should bring to this position the appropriate background of education and experience to contribute and carry out the Association’s goals.  Remain current in required and voluntary training in order to promote the growth of mind and spirit, and character values for all.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in recreation, education, or related field
• Minimum 7-10 years in aquatics leadership, safety management and program operations.
• Demonstrated success in developing and mentoring teams
• Exceptional communicator and relationship-builder with a growth mindset.
• Curent certifications: Lifeguard (YMCA or Red Cross), CPR/AED, First Aid, Pool Operator and Swim Lesson Instructor certifications preferred (or obtained within 90 days)
• Passion for creating inclusive, safe, and engaging aquatics progams that reflect YMCA values.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide excellent member service by exceeding member expectations.
• Manage the Aquatics Leadership Team, which includes branch Aquatics Directors and the Head Swim Coach. Ensure the team has the resources they need to be successful, are properly trained and remain focused on providing incredible service, fun programming and a safe environment.
• Create a culture of best-in-class communication with swimmers, families, staff and colleagues by building relationships, understanding individuals’ goals and interests, and taking the initiative to assist in the achievement of those goals and communicate in a timely and effective manner utilizing the “YMCA’s Voice”.
• Working with the team, develop systems for recruitment, training, professional growth, and teambuilding of lifeguards and swim instructors. This includes regular lifeguard certification courses and swim instructor training
• Coordinate and run all monthly in-service trainings that ensure staff are continuing to hone their skills and create a sense of belonging amongst the staff team.
• Be our Association Safety Champion, leading the Safety Committee and ensuring regular reviews, updates and adherence of safety policies and procedures across departments.
• Create a culture of swim instruction that is fun, celebrates achievements, builds connections and assists swim instructors to ensure classes begin and end on time, attendance is recorded and skills celebrated.
• Lead by example by providing direct service when necessary in swim instruction and lifeguarding to create a model of excellence.
• Ensure the performance of required risk management tasks to include safety audits and drills, in-service trainings, staff observations, chemical and pump room operations and general pool and equipment maintenance and ensure consistency of such work across the association.
• Track and review pool usage and make adjustments to ensure the pool generates direct revenue and helps member satisfaction and retention.
• Manage budget to meet or exceed goals which includes program registration, wait list management, enrollment records and more.
• Serve as an active member of the Management Team to help the YMCA achieve its mission and goals.
• Additional responsibilities that support our mission and team success

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to pass lifeguard water test.
• Must be able to remain alert.
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Adequate ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.
• Ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision.
• Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
• Meet strength and lifting requirements necessary for removal from water rescues.
• Ability to communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.
• Ability to observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility. Candidates who use corrective eyewear should be able to perform all rescue skills and emergency procedures without interruptions to adjust, clear, or retrieve corrective eyewear

OUR CULTURE: 

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

YMCA COMPETENCIES:

• Relationships: Builds rapport and relates well to others
• Inclusion: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions.
• Innovation: Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience.
• Quality Results: Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
• Self-Development: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance.