Aquatics Coordinator (Recreation Specialist), Recreational Sports

Indiana University's Office of Student Life is dedicated to fostering a positive, safe, healthy, and meaningful experience for every student on campus. This department plays a crucial role in supporting students by providing vital resources and tools to help them succeed both academically and in life after graduation. Their mission centers around student well-being, including health, safety, and a supportive environment that encourages growth and development throughout the university journey. The Office of Student Life comprises various departments working collaboratively to ensure an enriching and inclusive university culture.

Within this broader office, the Recreational Sports department stands out as a vital part of the student wellness ecosystem. Committed to promoting respect, learning, and positive interactions, Recreational Sports strives to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where all individuals feel valued and affirmed. Serving over 36,000 participants annually—including students, faculty, staff, and community members—this department offers a wide array of recreational programming and facilities. Sporting a dedicated team of 46 appointed staff and over 800 part-time student employees, Recreational Sports embodies a culture of teamwork, operational excellence, and participant development.

The role of Aquatics Program Manager is a dynamic and integral leadership position within Recreational Sports. Reporting directly to the Assistant Director for Aquatics, the Aquatics Program Manager helps oversee the management and supervision of recreational aquatic facilities, programs, special events, and personnel. This position is responsible for guiding a team of approximately 130 employees across eight pools located at four different aquatic venues on campus. These locations include the Counsilman/Billingsley Aquatic Center (CBAC) at the Student Recreational Sports Center, Royer Pool and Pool 194 at the School of Public Health, and the IU Recreational Sports Outdoor Pool.

Key responsibilities encompass the design, implementation, evaluation, and continuous expansion of aquatic recreational programming to meet the diverse needs of users while aiming to increase participation and generate revenue. The manager also coordinates daily pool operations and supports the facilitation of outside user groups, ensuring optimal use of aquatic spaces, including hosting competitive aquatic events.

A significant aspect of this role involves staff recruitment, hiring, supervision, scheduling, evaluation, and performance management. The manager is charged with establishing work priorities, conducting performance reviews, and providing necessary corrective action to maintain a highly effective and motivated team. Additionally, the role includes implementing the risk management plan, ensuring compliance with safety certifications and training, conducting regular facilities and equipment inspections, and developing aquatic emergency action plans.

This position demands a proactive approach to operational efficiency and quality by identifying areas for improvement and executing effective solutions. The Aquatics Program Manager also collaborates closely with other aquatic team members—consisting of a Program Director, one Assistant Director, and two Program Assistants—fostering a collaborative and student-centered workplace culture. Working hours are typically 40 per week, with flexibility for evenings and weekends to accommodate programming needs and event coverage.

With a competitive annual salary range of $50,000 to $51,500 and a comprehensive benefits package—including medical and dental insurance, retirement plans, paid holidays, and tuition subsidies—the Aquatics Program Manager role at Indiana University offers an outstanding career opportunity to contribute to student health, wellness, and community life in a prestigious academic setting. The position is based on the Indiana University Bloomington campus and requires in-person presence. This role is an excellent fit for individuals passionate about recreational programming, aquatic sports, and student development within a professional university environment.