People in this field are also often called aquatic directors.
Pool managers have a diverse range of duties. They do everything from developing
program schedules to teaching swimming lessons. People in these jobs often
handle all the duties required to manage a successful aquatic department.
People in this industry enjoy the best of the sporting and business worlds.
They organize aquatic programs for the local pool or fitness center and teach
swimming lessons to a variety of age groups.
They train swimming instructors and lifeguards. They hire, train and schedule
staff, budget pool revenues and labor costs and plan special events. They
must ensure that safety and health guidelines are met. They also have to stay
abreast of any new aquatic programs that appear on the fitness scene.
Experts say job growth will occur because a growing number of people are
interested in health and fitness. Plus, people are spending more time and
money on leisure services.
A demand for employees may be seen in facilities that offer senior programs
as well as in social service programs. Private facilities such as amusement
parks, waterslides, sports clinics and fitness clubs may also see an increased
need for people.
The average workday for pool managers tends to vary with the location and
sometimes the season. A 40-hour workweek is average. But most people in this
position will say it's not uncommon to work a few extra hours of overtime.
Most of these jobs would not have a standard 9-to-5 schedule. Expect to
work at least some evenings and weekends. If you choose to work in a water
park, expect to work lots of extra hours during the busy summer season.
Most pool managers spend a lot of time in the office organizing programs,
budgeting and managing staff. But physical activity is definitely required.
Many pool managers teach swimming lessons and aquasize programs. They also
train swimming instructors and lifeguards. They may be required to act as
a lifeguard when necessary. Therefore, a good level of physical fitness is
a must.
"It's definitely not a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. desk job," agrees Elyse Silver.
She is the corporate staff director for a pool company. She says it's an industry
that provides employees lots of opportunity to grow. Students can begin by
lifeguarding and work their way up into supervisory positions.
Aside from the hours, people must also be willing to change their schedules
at the drop of a hat, says Catherine Trudeau. She is the aquatic director
at a YMCA. People who aren't flexible and can't handle a constantly changing
schedule may find that these types of jobs aren't suited to them.