Director of Swim School

Bloomington-Normal YMCA•Bloomington, IL

3h•Onsite

About The Position

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Under the supervision of the Senior Aquatic Director, the Director of Swim School is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the swim lesson program, ensuring its smooth and effective operations. This role requires a passionate, detail-oriented, and proactive leader dedicated to growing the swim lesson program while managing staff, budgets, customer relations, and overall program excellence in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. YMCA Mission and Core Values: The mission of the YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs, services, and relationships that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The Core Values of the YMCA are Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. At the Bloomington-Normal YMCA we are a team of employees dedicated to advancing the mission and values of the YMCA through service and support of all members in our unique community. 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 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 Required Competencies: Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising. Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others. Relationships: Builds authentic relationships in the service of enhancing individual and team performance to support the Y’s work. Communication: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a manner that reflects a true understanding of the needs of the audience.

Requirements

Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends for special events or peak times.
Aquatic Environment: Ability to remain alert in warm air (80°F+) and water (80–88°F) for extended periods.
Physical Ability: Must be able to support a child’s or adult’s body weight in the water; ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Stamina: Ability to stand, walk, bend, and swim throughout a 10-hour shift.

Nice To Haves

Lifeguard Certification (current or obtainable within 30 days of hire).
Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification.
Previous experience in swim lesson instruction, program coordination, or aquatics leadership.
Demonstrated success in staff management, customer service, and program growth.
Possession of Spanish language both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

Manage all aspects of swim lesson operations, including group lessons and private swim lessons.
Ensure the quality and safety of swim lessons align with organizational and safety standards.
Work toward the growth and development of the swim lesson program, including outreach and marketing initiatives.
Recruit, hire, train, and retain swim instructors.
Conduct performance evaluations and implement professional development plans.
Manage staff schedules and address any staffing issues promptly.
Lead by example and foster a supportive, collaborative work environment.
Address all customer issues and concerns related to swim lessons in a timely and professional manner.
Maintain open communication with parents and guardians to provide updates and gather feedback.
Collaborate with the front desk and registration teams to ensure a seamless experience for participants.
Oversee a small budget, ensuring financial responsibility and program sustainability.
Provide input on budget allocation to support program growth and equipment needs.
Assist with training lifeguards and swim instructors as needed.
Participate in and help coordinate special events related to swim lessons or aquatics programming.