Aquatics Team Leader

Company Description

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking an Aquatics Team Leader to play a key role in delivering a safe, engaging, and high-quality aquatic experience for our community.

This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a leadership role where you can combine hands-on operational work with team leadership and programme development. Based in our modern, well-resourced facility, you will help shape a positive team culture while contributing to the ongoing growth of our aquatics offering.

You’ll support the Aquatics Manager with the day-to-day running of the facility, lead and develop a capable team, and help deliver programmes that make a real difference to the University community.

What sets this role apart is the work life balance it offers, a supportive environment, strong team culture, and a focus on development, without the pressure often seen in larger public facilities.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting and leading a team of lifeguards and instructors to deliver a safe, welcoming environment
• Building a positive team culture through coaching, mentoring, and clear leadership
• Overseeing daily operations, including water quality, safety standards, and facility presentation
• Contributing to the development and delivery of aquatic programmes and activities
• Responding to customer needs and supporting a high standard of service delivery

This is a permanent, full-time position (37.5 hours per week). The salary range for this role is $80,000 to $89,000, negotiable depending on skills and experience.

A full description of your duties and the role are provided in the position description linked HERE.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You’re someone who enjoys working in a team-focused, people-first environment and takes pride in creating great experiences for others. You bring a strong sense of ownership to your work and enjoy leading by example.

You’re confident supporting and developing others, while also being comfortable rolling up your sleeves and contributing operationally. You value a positive team culture and are motivated by continuous improvement.

E rapua ana mātou | We are seeking

• Experience in a lifeguarding or aquatics environment, with leadership or senior responsibilities
• Current lifeguard and water treatment qualifications (or the ability to obtain these)
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Experience supporting programmes such as swim school or aquatic activities
• A proactive approach to safety, service, and team development

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university, guided by a commitment to excellence and service to our communities. With more than 6,000 academic and professional staff, we support a diverse community of over 47,000 students.

Guided by our values, we work collaboratively to advance knowledge, foster equity and inclusion, and contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s social, cultural, and economic well-being.

We cultivate an environment that supports your growth and rewards excellence with a range of staff benefits, including:

• Competitive salary and 25 days annual leave, plus additional public holiday closures
• 37.5-hour work week with minimal weekend work
• Discounted public Transport for permanent staff
• Free Hiwa (recreation centre) membership
• Superannuation/KiwiSaver, matching up to 6.75%.
• Leading, and inclusive parental leave provisions.
• Career development opportunities and a range of benefits, including discounted insurance, memberships, and on‑site amenities.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please submit your application online by the closing date of Sunday, 14 June 2026. Your application should include:

• A brief Cover Letter explaining why you're interested in this role and how your skills match the requirements.
• Your updated CV.

Please note that we do not accept email applications.

For a confidential discussion, you are welcome to contact Sarah Clarke (Aquatics Manager) at s.clarke@auckland.ac.nz

Qualifications

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz