Step into a leadership role at one of New Zealand's premier aquatic centres.

We are on the lookout for an experienced Pools Operations Manager to join our leadership team at the Wellington Regional Aquatic Centre (WRAC).

This is more than just a job - it's a rare and rewarding opportunity to take ownership of the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of a facility that plays a central role in regional and national aquatic events.

About the role

As the Pools Operations Manager, you'll report to the WRAC Manager and be a key contributor to shaping the long-term strategy and vision of the facility. You'll foster a strong staff culture, and ensure the centre continues to be a benchmark for safety, service, and innovation in aquatic programming.

Your leadership will ensure the delivery of high-quality aquatic services that meet diverse community needs - ranging from water safety and fitness to major sporting events. This role is ideal for someone passionate about staff development, operational excellence, and delivering outstanding customer experiences.

Our facility includes:

• 50m heated indoor competition pool
• 5m deep diving pool with 2–10m boards
• Toddler and spray pools
• Hydrotherapy pool
• Learn-to-swim programme pool
• Gym, spa, and sauna.

Find more information about the facility. 

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the operations team to achieve high standards in safety, water quality, customer experience, and facility presentation.
• Cultivate effective communication and engagement with internal teams to ensure aligned goals and ongoing collaboration.
• Partner with our Customer service team leader to plan and delivery of a wide range of aquatic activations and events.
• Implement and improve operational systems, including health and safety compliance, risk management, and emergency protocols.
• Drive staff training, coaching, and career development initiatives.
• Contribute to rostering, budget planning and financial oversight.
• Promote continuous improvement and innovation across all service areas.

About you

You will be a passionate and capable leader, committed to community wellbeing, team development, and operational excellence. You thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments where no two days are the same. You're someone who sees challenges as opportunities, and people as your greatest asset.

We're looking for someone with:

• at least three years' hands-on experience in an aquatic or pool facility, with 12+ months in a leadership role
• a current Comprehensive First Aid Certificate (Level 2) and Pool Lifeguard Skills Award. Holding a PLPC assessor qualification or similar is also desirable
• strong operational knowledge of pool management, including water treatment and be familiar with policies, procedures, SOPs, and emergency action plans
• proven ability to lead, coach, and inspire high-performing teams
• experience planning and delivering aquatic programmes and events
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• strong problem-solving skills and a proactive, solutions-focused mindset
• PLPC assessor qualification or similar (desirable).

We are looking to appoint between $103,494 - $121,757 per annum, for this role, depending on relevant skills and experience.

Applications close Tuesday, 24 June 2025. Please note that we may engage with applicants prior to the vacancy closing and/or close applications ahead of this date so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. All applications must be submitted online - we will not accept emailed applications.

All applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand [add any other pre-employment checks required, e.g. and be prepared to obtain and maintain a Police Vetting check.

Please note this role is safety sensitive and will require you to maintain a clean Police Vetting check and undergo pre-employment drug and alcohol, and health testing.

If you have questions, please contact Fiona Hurley, Manager - WRAC, Fiona.hurley@wcc.govt.nz

About us - about WCC

We're Working for Wellington. Wellington City Council's team provides more than 400 services every day for Wellingtonians - everything from parks and pools to consents and cemeteries - playing our part in making Pōneke the creative capital where people and nature thrive.

Working for the Council offers you a range of benefits including five weeks annual leave, flexible working options, health and wellbeing support, Council staff discounts and a range of learning and development programmes and opportunities.

Diversity:

We want your application to enable you to portray the real you. Skills are gained across many areas of our life, not just formal employment.  If you can demonstrate the skills listed in the advert through whānau life, community or mahi aroha (volunteering) we encourage you to apply and share your story with us in your cover letter.

We welcome applications from all walks of life and like our workforce to reflect the diverse communities we serve.

Accessibility support:

We want to make sure any accessibility requirements you may have, are well supported so the selection process is equitable for everyone. Please let us know if there are any adjustments or support, we can offer to make our process more accessible to you by emailing: recruitment@wcc.govt.nz.

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