Head Swim Coach

Job Description

Under the limited supervision of the Branch Executive, the Head Swim Coach provides strategic leadership, direction, and oversight of the competitive swim team and all associated aquatic programming. This position is responsible for hiring, developing, and supporting coaching staff; maintaining high-quality, mission-driven programming; and ensuring departmental efficiency and profitability. Through collaboration with the Aquatics Department and branch leadership, the Head Swim Coach ensures programs reflect the YMCA’s values.

Qualifications

Background in aquatics and / or recreation environment required.

Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Competitive swimming experience preferred.

Minimum of 1 year of swim coaching required; 5 years preferred.

Experience supervising, training, and developing staff preferred.

Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification required within 60 days of hire.

USS Coaches Certification and YMCA Principles of Swim Coach Certification required within 12 months of hire.

Strong administrative, organizational, and computer skills with attention to detail.

Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality of records.

Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, based on departmental and facility needs.

Essential Functions

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the swim team program by developing and implementing high-quality training plans, meet schedules, and team goals to ensure program excellence and member satisfaction.
• Recruit, hire, train, and mentor Aquatic Specialists, Swim Coaches, Swim Instructors, and Lifeguard staff by providing consistent feedback and development opportunities to build a knowledgeable, motivated, and high-performing aquatics team.
• Plan, organize, and supervise daily swim practices and competitive meets by designing age-appropriate workouts and progressions that improve swimmers’ technical skills, endurance, and love for the sport.
• Interact directly with swimmers during practices and meets by observing and correcting stroke techniques, providing individualized coaching strategies, and offering encouragement to enhance performance and confidence.
• Lead and engage parent committees and volunteers by organizing regular meetings, sharing updates, and aligning parent support with team objectives to foster a connected and supportive swim community.
• Collaborate with branch leadership and participate in center-level initiatives by contributing to fundraising efforts, staff meetings, and serving as Leader on Duty to strengthen cross-departmental teamwork and community engagement.
• Develop, promote, and evaluate innovative aquatic programming by incorporating water safety, health, and skill development principles to create fun, engaging, and mission-aligned experiences for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
• Monitor program performance, safety standards, and financial outcomes by reviewing participation data, budgets, and incident reports to ensure sustainability, compliance, and continuous improvement across all aquatic programs.

Follow all YMCA abuse prevention and risk management policies, including required trainings, mandated reporting, and monitoring of high-risk areas.

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

Required Certifications

Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification required within 60 days of hire.

USS Coaches Certification and YMCA Principles of Swim Coach Certification required within 12 months of hire.