Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Pool Manager

🎯 Role Definition

A Pool Manager is the cornerstone of any successful aquatic facility, responsible for the complete oversight of day-to-day operations, safety protocols, and staff management. This role blends leadership with hands-on technical expertise, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons while maintaining the facility to the highest standards. The Pool Manager acts as the primary point of contact for all pool-related matters, from enforcing safety regulations and managing water chemistry to developing engaging aquatic programs and leading a team of lifeguards and support staff. This position is critical for mitigating risk, driving member satisfaction, and ensuring the financial and operational health of the aquatic department.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Head Lifeguard
Assistant Pool Manager
Aquatics Coordinator

Advancement To:

Aquatics Director
Recreation or Parks Manager
Director of Facilities

Lateral Moves:

Fitness Center Manager
Guest Services Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Provide direct leadership and supervision to the entire aquatics team, including lifeguards, swim instructors, and pool attendants, to foster a cohesive and high-performing work environment.
Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive staff schedules to ensure optimal coverage of the pool deck and facility at all times, accommodating for breaks, training, and special events.
Design and conduct regular, documented in-service training sessions and emergency action plan (EAP) drills for all aquatics staff to maintain a high level of readiness and skill.
Enforce all facility rules, policies, and safety procedures with patrons and staff in a firm but professional manner to ensure a secure and orderly environment.
Meticulously monitor, test, and adjust pool water chemistry throughout the day, maintaining proper pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and other levels in accordance with health department standards.
Perform and document daily walk-throughs and inspections of the pool, deck, pump room, and all associated equipment to identify and address potential hazards or maintenance needs proactively.
Manage the procurement and inventory of all necessary supplies, including pool chemicals, first aid materials, rescue equipment, and staff uniforms, ensuring resources are always available.
Create, promote, and oversee a diverse range of aquatic programs, such as group swim lessons, private instruction, water aerobics, and competitive swim teams, to drive engagement and revenue.
Serve as the primary point person for addressing and resolving guest inquiries, feedback, and complaints, demonstrating exceptional customer service and de-escalation skills.
Develop and manage the annual aquatics department budget, including forecasting expenses, tracking revenue, and making data-driven decisions to ensure financial responsibility.
Lead the recruitment, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding process for all new aquatics staff, ensuring the team is comprised of qualified and dedicated individuals.
Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback and coaching to staff members to support their professional development and ensure high standards of performance.
Ensure strict compliance with all local, state, and federal health codes and safety regulations governing public swimming pools, preparing for and managing all health inspections.
Maintain impeccable and organized records, including chemical logs, incident and accident reports, staff certifications, attendance records, and program registration data.
Coordinate directly with maintenance and facilities departments to schedule and oversee necessary repairs, preventative maintenance, and capital improvements for the aquatic facility.
Champion a positive, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere for all facility users and staff, leading by example in professionalism and enthusiasm.
Oversee the daily opening and closing procedures of the facility, ensuring all tasks are completed thoroughly and the facility is secured properly.
Act as the on-scene commander during any emergency situation, effectively directing staff and coordinating with emergency medical services until the situation is resolved.
Manage departmental payroll processes, including reviewing and approving timesheets to ensure accurate and timely compensation for the aquatics team.
Administer the point-of-sale (POS) system for program registrations, guest passes, and other transactions, ensuring proper cash handling and reconciliation procedures are followed.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to facility usage, program attendance, and operational efficiency.
Contribute to the organization's broader safety and risk management strategy and roadmap.
Collaborate with marketing and communications departments to promote aquatic programs and facility amenities.
Participate in departmental and organization-wide meetings, strategic planning sessions, and agile ceremonies as a representative of the aquatics team.
Assist in planning and executing community-wide events that may involve the pool facility, such as member appreciation days or holiday parties.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Certification: Demonstrates expert knowledge of pool operations, filtration, and water sanitation.
Current Lifeguard, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, and First Aid Certifications: Essential for leading a team and responding to emergencies.
Water Chemistry & Testing: Proficient in testing all water parameters and making precise chemical adjustments to maintain health standards.
Staff Scheduling Software: Experience using platforms like WhenIWork, Deputy, or similar tools for efficient staff management.
Budgeting and Financial Management: Ability to create, track, and manage a departmental budget effectively.
Pump Room Operations: Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of pool pumps, filters, and heating systems.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Development: Skill in creating and drilling response plans for various emergency scenarios.
Incident Reporting: Meticulous and clear documentation of all accidents, incidents, and rule enforcement actions.
Microsoft Office Suite / Google Workspace: Proficiency in using software for reporting, communication, and record-keeping.
Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification (Preferred): Knowledge of swim instruction methodologies and program development.

Soft Skills

Leadership & Mentorship: The ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a team of diverse individuals.
Exceptional Communication: Clear, concise, and professional communication with staff, patrons, and senior management.
Conflict Resolution: The capacity to de-escalate tense situations and find positive resolutions to guest and staff issues.
Problem-Solving: Strong critical thinking skills to quickly assess situations and implement effective solutions, especially under pressure.
Unwavering Attention to Detail: A keen eye for safety hazards, cleanliness, and operational inconsistencies.
Customer Service Excellence: A genuine desire to provide a positive and memorable experience for all facility users.
Decisiveness: Confidence in making critical decisions quickly and effectively, particularly during emergencies.
Organizational & Time Management Skills: The ability to juggle multiple priorities, from administrative tasks to hands-on operational duties.
Composure Under Pressure: The ability to remain calm, focused, and in command during high-stress situations.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to changing schedules, weather conditions, and unexpected operational challenges.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Recreation and Park Administration
Hospitality Management
Business Administration
Kinesiology or Exercise Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-5 years of progressive experience in an aquatic environment.

Preferred: At least 2 years of experience in a supervisory or leadership role (e.g., Head Lifeguard, Assistant Manager) within a comparable aquatic facility, demonstrating responsibility for staff supervision, safety oversight, and operational duties.