Aquatics Coordinator in Edwardsville, Illinois at Young Mens Christian Association

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Aquatics Coordinator supports the daily operations of the Aquatics Department by assisting with staff supervision, program delivery, facility safety, and member experience. Reporting to the Aquatics Director, this position helps ensure high-quality aquatics programs through effective scheduling, staff development, regulatory compliance, and operational support.

In addition to coordinating lifeguard operations, swim lessons, and daily aquatic activities, this role provides direct program support, maintains a visible leadership presence on the pool deck, and promotes a safe, welcoming environment for members and participants.

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.

We are WELCOMING: we’re open to all. We’re 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.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Support the daily operations, safety, and quality of Aquatics programs and services, including lifeguard operations, swim lessons, Swim Team activities, and related programming.
• Assist with recruiting, hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, supervising, developing, and evaluating aquatics staff while maintaining appropriate staffing levels, required certifications, and daily operational coverage.
• Coordinate lifeguard certification courses, recertifications, and required in-service trainings in collaboration with the Aquatics Director to ensure staff readiness and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate the daily delivery of swim lessons by assisting with scheduling, enrollment, class assignments, attendance, participant progression, and instructor support to ensure high-quality programming and member satisfaction.
• Assist with Swim Team operations and serve as assistant coach as assigned, supporting participant development and overall program success.
• Monitor aquatic facilities, equipment, and daily operations to help ensure a safe, clean, and well-maintained environment consistent with YMCA standards. Communicate maintenance or safety concerns promptly and assist with maintaining required operational and regulatory documentation.
• Provide an average of 10 hours per week of direct program coverage in non-supervisory roles, including lifeguarding, swim instruction, or other operational support, to maintain safe staffing levels and quality member experiences.
• Build positive relationships with members, participants, families, staff, volunteers, and community partners while providing responsive, professional customer service and promoting YMCA programs and participation.
• Assist with departmental administration, including program enrollment, purchasing, inventory, reporting, and other operational responsibilities as assigned.
• Support the YMCA mission through participation in fundraising initiatives, association events, staff meetings, professional development, and other organizational activities.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred or equivalent and experience.
• Two or more years of experience in aquatics, recreation, or youth programming preferred.
• Experience supervising or leading aquatics staff preferred.
• Current YMCA or American Red Cross Lifeguard certification, including CPR/AED.
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor certification preferred or willingness to obtain within the required timeframe.
• Ability to obtain YMCA Team Leader Certification.
• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with members, participants, families, volunteers, and staff.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and throughout the summer season as needed.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

• Advancing Our Mission and Cause
• Building Relationships
• Leading Operations
• Developing and Inspiring People

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the required essential functions.

• Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions of position and to safely supervise and participate in children’s activities.
• Must have visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to respond swiftly in an emergency situation
• The employee is regularly required to use a computer for extended periods of time and communicate using a computer and phone/smart device.
• The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit, reach, and move throughout indoor and outdoor work environments.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Must have visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to respond swiftly in an emergency.
• Must be able to coordinate a variety of large and small tasks simultaneously and handle tension and stress in a positive manner.