Aquatics Operations Manager
The St. James – Springfield, VA
Full-Time | Leadership Role | 700,000-Gallon Competition Pool + Water Park
Why This Role Matters
The Aquatics Operations Manager plays a vital role in maintaining the excellence, safety, and daily functionality of our flagship Aquatics Center. This is not simply a maintenance role—it’s about upholding operational precision, leading high-performing teams, and ensuring that every guest interaction occurs in a space that is clean, compliant, and ready. From water quality control to incident response readiness, your leadership directly protects the brand, supports the mission of the Safety & Rescue Department, and empowers every swimmer, athlete, and guest who enters our facility.
What Sets Us Apart
- Premier Aquatics Infrastructure: A 700,000-gallon, 50-meter pool and 6,000 sq. ft. indoor water park—all housed under one roof.
- Integrated Safety Operations: Work alongside a regionally recognized lifeguard corps and on-site medical responders.
- Structured Leadership Culture: You’ll be part of a professional team that values accountability, preparedness, and systemized execution.
- Facility-Level Autonomy: You'll have the ability to assess, act, and lead Springfield Aquatics Center operations day-to-day.
- Operational Breadth: From training and scheduling to SOP development and mechanical coordination—you’ll own the core.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure consistent daily operations across the Aquatics Center in accordance with department standards and local code
- Supervise and support the lifeguard and aquatics operations team in delivering high-quality safety and service
- Oversee and regularly audit pool chemistry, water quality management, equipment functionality, and cleanliness
- Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures for aquatic safety, venue readiness, and preventative maintenance
- Serve as a liaison between Aquatics and departments such as Facilities, Events, and Venue Operations
- Support hiring, onboarding, and training of new aquatics staff; lead internal drills and audits for safety preparedness
- Participate in capital planning, equipment specification, and operational input for aquatic-related projects
- Assist in the development and delivery of internal training programs (e.g., Lifeguard, CPR/AED, emergency response)
- Respond to incidents and serve in a leadership role during facility emergencies
- Backfill key aquatics operations roles when needed to maintain operational integrity
What You Bring
- Minimum 3 years in an aquatics operations leadership role in a year-round aquatic facility
- Associate’s Degree (AA/AS) or 60 units toward a Bachelor’s degree required
- Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding and Lifeguard Instructor certifications
- Current Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) certification
- EMT (VA/NREMT) certification preferred or ability to obtain within one year
- Strong understanding of pool system operations, safety standards, and emergency preparedness
- Proven ability to lead teams, enforce standards, and coordinate with internal departments
- Physically capable of meeting lifeguard and rescue readiness requirements, including strength, endurance, and water competency
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with audit or maintenance tracking software is a plus
The Opportunity
This role is central to the day-to-day success of The St. James Aquatics Center and its integrated Safety & Rescue Department. You’ll be trusted to lead operational consistency, uphold safety excellence, and directly support the teams that protect our members and guests. If you're a systems thinker with hands-on experience and a readiness mindset, this is your platform.
Apply Today
Email your resume and cover letter to
[email protected]
or apply at thestjames.com/careers
The St. James is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to operational excellence, diversity, and innovation.
