Aquatics Director

Job Title:

Aquatics Director Reports To:

Operations Director Position Overview:

As the only public swimming facility in Routt County, Old Town Hot Springs (OTHS) is dedicated to providing aquatic health, wellness, and education opportunities to our members, guests, and the broader community. The Aquatics Director is responsible for overseeing all aquatic operations and programming at OTHS, including lifeguarding, water safety instruction, aquatic programs, and the Steamboat Springs Swim Team. This role ensures the highest standards of safety, service, and operational excellence.

Essential Job Functions:

Leadership & Team Management Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing aquatics team with clear direction and integrity. Recruit, hire, train, evaluate, and retain staff, ensuring a culture of safety, accountability, and professionalism. Serve as a lead instructor for lifeguard, CPR, and in-service training. Provide hands-on support & coverage across aquatics roles as needed (e.g., lifeguard, instructor, swim coach). Evaluate team performance and provide coaching and development opportunities. Manage staff schedules and maintain optimal staffing levels aligned with operational and financial goals. Prepare and submit accurate bi-monthly payroll for the department. Program Oversight & Development Oversee daily aquatics operations, ensuring consistent quality, member, and guest satisfaction. Set specific goals and implement plans to grow participation in and improve aquatic programs. Build and maintain partnerships with community groups to schedule group visits and develop new programming. Address customer feedback and resolve conflicts with professionalism and empathy. Support the Steamboat Springs Swim Team by ensuring compliance with USA Swimming standards, creating the team's vision, providing leadership, and collaborating with the Head Swim Coach. Ensuring Exceptional Safety and Standards Ensure consistent presence on the pool deck to support safety, staff engagement, and adherence to policies. Lead cross-departmental training and drills related to OTHS Emergency Action Plan Strong understanding of Crisis Management. Collaborates to create direction and objectives around the organization's vision, translates vision into actionable plans. Able to act as a subject matter expert on the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) and local/state pool regulations. Budget Monitor department expenses, payroll, and monthly revenue to ensure alignment with the approved budget. Take ownership of the annual Aquatics department budget development and planning. Conduct cost control and financial efficiency analyses to support department sustainability. Additional Responsibilities Maintains a strong working relationship with all departments to support smooth operations and accomplishment of goals. Represent the aquatics department professionally, in both image and manner, to support OTHS's mission and strategic goals. Provides leadership and direction in the development of short- and long-range plans, and gathers, interprets, and prepares data for reports and recommendations as it pertains to the aquatics department. Participate in and support special events, parties, and fundraising efforts as needed.

Position Requirements:

Education and Experience Bachelor's Degree, or comparable professional work experience. Minimum three years' experience in an Aquatics operational leadership capacity. Demonstrated success recruiting, managing and developing a team of at least 50+ staff. Strong background in program development, staff supervision, and fiscal management. Extensive experience conducting training in lifeguarding, water safety, swim lessons, First Aid, CPR, and Administering Emergency Oxygen. Ability to push, pull, carry and lift, up to 70 lbs.

Certifications Required upon hire:

American Red Cross Lifeguard (including Deep Water) American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) Required within 6 months of hire: Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (LGIT) - depending on IT Academy availability •

Note:

American Red Cross certifications are preferred, but comparable certifications may be accepted for highly qualified candidates. • Technical & Communication Skills Proficient in Microsoft Office and facility management software. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to lead calmly and effectively in high-stress situations. The ability to create a positive team-oriented environment focused on safety, and the ability to inspire a high-level of performance and alignment with the organizational culture is required.

What we offer:

$70,000 - $80,000 Full time/year-round salary (pay based on experience). 100% covered small group health/dental insurance for self. HSA available Generous PTO policy Simple IRA plan match of 3% of salary contributed. Old Town Hot Springs membership for self and family. Other in-facility discounts and benefits.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Health savings account Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person