Part Time Duke Recreation & Physical Education Aquatics Supervisor
Job Description
Position Summary
Duke Recreation & Physical Education is looking for an Aquatics Supervisor to join our Aquatics team. In this role, you’ll be a key on-deck leader for our swim programming—keeping operations running smoothly, supporting instructors and lifeguards, and ensuring every participant has a safe and high-quality experience. You’ll work closely with the Aquatics Coordinator and serve as a go-to resource for staff and patrons alike. This is a great opportunity to grow your leadership skills while making a direct impact on a program you’re passionate about.
Core Responsibilities
Program Support & Operations
• Serve as on-deck supervisor during assigned shifts, actively supporting swim programming and maintaining a safe, welcoming pool environment
• Ensure program setup is complete in Fusion software prior to each session, including roster printing and check-in system readiness
• Conduct swim assessments and assist with lesson logistics as needed
• Maintain equipment organization and ensure readiness for all aquatics programs
• Respond to aquatic emergencies and implement Emergency Action Plans in accordance with DRPE protocols
• Enforce all pool rules, safety protocols, and department policies
Administrative & Scheduling Coordination
• Coordinate and manage instructor scheduling in alignment with program needs and participant enrollment
• Provide weekly wrap-up and planning support to ensure seamless program transitions, including weekend coverage
• Monitor and respond to inquiries sent to the general aquatics email inbox, providing timely and accurate information to current and prospective participants
• Maintain accurate operational records, logs, and tracking documentation as directed
Staff Collaboration & Communication
• Attend weekly coordination meetings with Aquatics leadership to align on priorities, staffing, and programming updates
• Work closely with the Aquatics Coordinator on staff feedback, performance support, and development
• Support onboarding, training, and orientation efforts for new instructors and lifeguards
• Communicate schedule changes, programming updates, and facility needs to staff and patrons promptly
Department Engagement
• Model and promote the Duke Rec & PE mission, core values, and customer service standards
• Attend staff meetings, training, and professional development as requested
• Support departmental initiatives and contribute to a collaborative team culture
Expectations
• Demonstrate professionalism, leadership, and accountability in all interactions
• Maintain a safe, clean, and inclusive environment for all participants and staff
• Complete all assigned duties and shifts reliably
• Maintain current CPR/AED/First Aid and Lifeguard certifications
• Submit timecards accurately and on time
Schedule & Compensation
• Must be able to work 29.9 hours per week – On-site
• Flexible availability required, including afternoon/evening shifts Monday–Thursday and one weekend day
• Pay: $21.00 per hour
• Benefits: Vacation/sick accrual, optional health benefits, free Duke Recreation & Physical Education staff membership
Preferred Qualifications
• Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification or equivalent (required)
• Current CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid certification (required)
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification (preferred)
• Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) and/or CPR/AED/First Aid Instructor certifications (preferred)
• Minimum of two years of experience in an aquatic supervision or recreation environment
• 3 or more years of swim instruction experience, with strong background working with swimmers ages 6 months through adult
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced aquatic environment
• Maintains flexible availability across afternoons, evenings, and weekends, including academic break periods and inclement weather days when the university remains operational
Join a team that is as passionate about people as it is about the water. Duke Recreation & Physical Education offers a dynamic, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment where your contributions directly shape the experience of our community. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your leadership, grow professionally, and be part of a department that is committed to innovation, belonging, and excellence.
Duke University is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, and our Recreation & Physical Education department reflects that standard—offering best-in-class facilities, programs, and people. Beyond the meaningful work, you’ll benefit from Duke’s competitive benefits package, including optional health coverage, accrued paid time off, and a complimentary recreation membership. Learn more at hr.duke.edu/benefits.
Screening continues until position is filled.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Work requires the ability to provide recreational assistance generally equivalent to a partial high school education.
Experience
Minimum of two years of swim instruction experience, with demonstrated experience working with youth and adult swimmers.
Degrees, Licensures, Certifications
Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification (or equivalent) and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer required. Additional certifications preferred; see Preferred Qualifications above.