Program Director-Aquatics, Bittner & Waterpark

Are you passionate about water safety, leadership, and developing high-quality aquatic programs? We are seeking an experienced and motivated Aquatics Director to lead our branch and waterpark aquatic operations and safety initiatives.

This leadership role is ideal for someone with strong risk management, hiring and supervisory experience, advanced lifeguard trainer credentials, and a commitment to creating a safe, engaging, and welcoming aquatic environment for all ages.

Salary: $55,000-$65,000/ annually

What You'll Do

• Lead daily aquatic operations and facility management
• Oversee lifeguards, swim instructors, coaches, and aquatic staff
• Conduct staff trainings, emergency drills, and risk management initiatives
• Serve as a Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (LGIT) for our association
• Develop and grow aquatic programs including swim lessons, water fitness, and special events
• Oversee association wide aquatics risk management - in-service trainings, certifications, safety audits, emergency drills, etc.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and operational procedures
• Build strong relationships with members, families, and the community

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Recreation, Sports Management, Kinesiology, or related field preferred
• Previous aquatic programming leadership and staff supervision experience preferred
• Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding/CPR/AED/First Aid certification required
• Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (LGIT) certification required or ability to obtain within 6-12 months
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO)

What We're Looking For

• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Passion for safety, training, and youth development
• Ability to lead teams in a fast-paced aquatic environment
• Commitment to exceptional member experiences and community engagement

The Y provides a total compensation package that includes a competitive salary, benefits and other perks as outlined below.

BENEFITS: As a full-time, employee, our competitive benefit package includes:

• Health insurance: Y pays 65-93% for individual and 57-82% for family; Dental: Y pays 65%; Vision available
• Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account
• Y Retirement Fund: Y pays 12% after employee meets eligibility requirements
• Eligible to participate in 403B savings account through Y Retirement Fund
• Paid Time Off: Begins accruing at 19 days per year up to a max of 30. Caps at 240 hours
• Life Insurance: Y pays 1 X salary, EE has option to purchase additional coverage
• Long Term Disability: Paid by the Y; Employee can elect to purchase Short Term Disability

Y PERKS:

• Free household YMCA membership! Discounts on programs
• Child Care discount 25%; Summer Camp discounts
• Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Program

We are looking for someone who displays the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility and adheres to our mission. The YMCA of the Iowa Mississippi Valley is a 4-star rated Charity Navigator employer for over 16 years. "Only 2% of the charities we evaluate have received at least 11 consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that YMCA of the Iowa Mississippi Valley outperforms most other charities in America." - Charity Navigator. We have also been voted "Best in the QC" by Locals Love Us several years in a row.