Top 11 Pool Manager Certifications

Certifications for a pool manager are important for several reasons. First, certifications demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a pool, which can help them stand out in the job market. Certifications also show that a pool manager is committed to safety and professionalism in their work, both of which are essential qualities for any successful pool manager. Finally, certifications give employers confidence that they are hiring an experienced and qualified individual who is capable of meeting their expectations.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Pool Managers and explain how they can provide career-enhancing benefits to pool managers.

What are Pool Manager Certifications?

Pool manager certification is a type of training and qualification program designed to help prepare individuals for the responsibilities associated with managing a swimming pool. The certification process typically involves a comprehensive course covering topics such as water chemistry, safety, maintenance and operations. This type of certification can help ensure that pool managers have the knowledge and skills needed to properly maintain a safe, healthy and enjoyable swimming environment. It can also provide employers with assurance that their pool staff members are knowledgeable and qualified to manage their pools. Additionally, having certified pool managers may be required by some states in order to meet legal requirements. Ultimately, having certified pool managers can help protect swimmers from potential hazards while providing an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Pro Tip: Pool Manager Certification can be a great way to increase your knowledge and understanding of pool safety and maintenance. Be sure to research the requirements and regulations in your state, as well as any additional certifications that may be available, to ensure you have the most up-to-date information when taking the certification exam.

Related: What does a Pool Manager do?

Top 11 Pool Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Pool Managers today.

1. Certified Pool Operator (CPO)

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) is a certification program offered by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF). The CPO certification is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly manage and maintain swimming pools. It is recognized as the industry standard for pool operators around the world.

The CPO certification consists of an 8-hour course that covers topics such as water chemistry, filtration, circulation systems, maintenance, safety, risk management and more. The course also includes a written exam which must be passed in order to receive the certification.

In order to become certified, individuals must first register for a CPO class through the NSPF website or through an authorized provider. Most classes are held over two days and cost between $200 - $400 USD depending on location. After completing the class and passing the exam, individuals will receive their CPO certification card from NSPF.

The CPO certification is valid for 5 years from date of issue and can be renewed by taking a 4-hour refresher course or retaking the 8-hour course and exam.

2. National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool & Spa Operator (NSPF CPO)

The National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool & Spa Operator (NSPF CPO) certification is a program designed to provide operators of swimming pools and spas with the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure safe and healthy aquatic environments. The certification is recognized as the most widely accepted and respected education program for pool and spa operators.

The NSPF CPO certification is divided into two parts: a classroom-based course, which takes 8-10 hours to complete, and an online exam that tests the student's understanding of the material covered in the course. The course covers topics such as pool chemistry, water safety, maintenance, and regulations.

To get certified, individuals must attend an approved NSPF CPO training class or purchase an online self-study kit from the NSPF website. After completing the coursework, students must take a proctored online exam that consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, students must score at least 75%.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on whether you take a classroom-based training or purchase an online self-study kit. A classroom-based training typically costs between $200-$300 while an online self-study kit costs $125.

3. Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO)

Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) is a certification program designed to provide aquatic professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate and maintain a safe, efficient and enjoyable aquatic facility. The AFO program is administered by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF).

The AFO certification requires completion of a two-day course, which covers topics such as pool chemistry, safety and risk management, maintenance and operations, customer service, legal issues, and water quality. Upon successful completion of the course and an exam, individuals receive an AFO certificate.

The cost of the AFO course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$400. The cost includes all materials needed for the class as well as access to online resources.

In order to register for the AFO course, individuals must be at least 18 years old and have basic swimming skills. Once registered for the class, it typically takes two days to complete all requirements for certification.

4. Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Technician (CPSMT)

The Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Technician (CPSMT) is a professional certification program offered by the National Swimming Pool Foundation. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to properly maintain and service swimming pools and spas.

To become certified, applicants must successfully complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as water chemistry, cleaning and maintenance, safety and risk management, plumbing systems, pumps, filters, heating systems, lighting systems, chemical feeders, controllers/automation systems, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours.

The cost for the CPSMT certification exam is $150.00 USD. To register for the exam you will need to create an account on the NSPF website. Once your account has been created you can then purchase the exam voucher from their online store. After purchasing your voucher you will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule your exam at one of their approved testing centers.

Once you have passed the exam you will be awarded your Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Technician (CPSMT) certificate which is valid for five years from the date of issue. After five years you will need to re-certify in order to maintain your certification status.

5. Certified Aquatic Facility Manager (CAFM)

Certified Aquatic Facility Manager (CAFM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward aquatic facility managers for their knowledge, skills and commitment to the aquatic industry. The CAFM program is offered through the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF), an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting public health and safety in aquatic environments.

The CAFM program requires that applicants have at least two years of experience in managing an aquatic facility, and that they successfully complete a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as pool operations, water chemistry, risk management, customer service, staff training and development, budgeting and finance, maintenance and repair of equipment, and other related topics.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the exam. Candidates should review the NSPF study guide materials as well as any other relevant materials related to their specific job duties. It is also recommended that candidates attend an NSPF-approved training course or workshop prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the CAFM program varies depending on whether you are a member of NSPF or not. For non-members, the fee is $225 USD plus applicable taxes; for members it is $175 USD plus applicable taxes.

6. Association of Pool & Spa Professionals Certified Service Professional (APSP CSP)

The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals Certified Service Professional (APSP CSP) is a certification program that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the pool and spa industry. This certification is designed to assist employers in identifying qualified service technicians and to help consumers identify those with the highest level of training and experience.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of experience in the pool and spa industry, completing an APSP-approved course, passing a written exam, and paying the applicable fees. The coursework can be completed online or in person at a local APSP chapter. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as plumbing systems, electrical systems, water chemistry, safety regulations, and more.

The cost for the APSP CSP program varies depending on whether you choose to take the course online or in person. The online course costs $399 plus applicable taxes; the in-person course costs $499 plus applicable taxes. In addition to these fees, there are also administrative fees associated with taking the exam ($150) and becoming certified ($100).

Once all requirements have been met, it typically takes 4-6 weeks for applicants to receive their certification. After receiving their certification, they will be listed on the APSP website as an official Certified Service Professional.

7. National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Maintenance Professional (NSPF CMP)

The National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Maintenance Professional (NSPF CMP) is a certification program that provides the necessary knowledge and skills to maintain and operate swimming pools and spas safely and efficiently. The program is designed for those who are responsible for the maintenance of commercial, residential, or public swimming pools. It covers topics such as pool chemistry, filtration systems, water balance, safety standards, problem solving and troubleshooting.

It takes approximately 8-12 hours to complete the NSPF CMP course. The course is offered online or in-person at approved training centers around the country. In order to receive certification, participants must pass an exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of the NSPF CMP varies depending on where you take the course. Online courses typically cost between $200-$300 while in-person courses range from $400-$500.

In addition to completing the course and passing the exam, applicants must also have a minimum of two years’ experience working in pool maintenance or operations before they can become certified.

8. National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Service Professional (NSPF CSP)

The National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Service Professional (NSPF CSP) is a certification offered by the NSPF to professionals in the swimming pool and spa industry. This certification is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of knowledge, experience, and expertise in their field. The NSPF CSP focuses on topics such as pool and spa maintenance, water chemistry, safety, and customer service.

To become an NSPF CSP, applicants must first complete an online application. After submitting the application, applicants must then take an exam that consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics related to pool and spa maintenance, water chemistry, safety, customer service, and other related topics. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

Once applicants pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher they will be awarded their NSPF CSP certification. The cost for the certification is $225 USD which includes both the online application fee and the exam fee. Additionally, there is a $25 USD annual renewal fee for those who wish to maintain their certification status.

9. Association of Pool & Spa Professionals Certified Building Professional (APSP CBP)

The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals Certified Building Professional (APSP CBP) is a certification program designed to recognize the professional knowledge, experience, and expertise of pool and spa industry professionals. This certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the design, construction, and maintenance of residential and commercial pools and spas.

To become an APSP CBP, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in the pool and spa industry or five years of part-time experience. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as pool and spa construction, design, safety codes, maintenance, water chemistry, equipment operation, customer service skills, and more.

The exam is administered by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF), which charges a fee for the exam. The cost for taking the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their APSP CBP certification card.

Once certified as an APSP CBP, individuals must renew their certification every two years by completing continuing education courses offered by NSPF or other approved organizations. The cost for these courses can range from $50-$100 USD per course.

10. National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Water Chemistry Technician (NSPF CWT)

The National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Water Chemistry Technician (NSPF CWT) is a certification program designed to recognize and reward individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the area of pool and spa water chemistry. This certification is aimed at pool operators, service technicians, aquatic facility managers, health inspectors, and other professionals who work with swimming pools and spas.

In order to obtain this certification, individuals must first complete the NSPF Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) course. Once they have completed the CPO course, they can then take the NSPF CWT exam. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as water chemistry principles; chemical testing methods; sanitizers; disinfectants; shock treatments; pH control; algaecides; filter media; circulation systems; safety equipment operation and maintenance; accident prevention and response procedures.

It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their NSPF CWT certification card which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

The cost of taking the NSPF CWT exam varies depending on where you take it. Typically, it costs around $150 - $200 USD for the exam fee plus any applicable taxes or fees.

11. American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor Certification

The American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor Certification is a nationally recognized certification program designed to teach individuals the skills necessary to become a certified lifeguard instructor. This certification is valid for two years and can be renewed by taking an online renewal course.

To get this certification, individuals must first complete the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course, which includes a pre-course swim assessment and 30 hours of instruction in topics such as water rescue, first aid, CPR/AED, and other lifeguarding skills. After successfully completing the course, individuals can then take the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor Certification Course. This course includes 25 hours of instruction in topics such as teaching methods, lesson planning, risk management, and professional development. The cost for this course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $300-$500.

Once all requirements are met and the individual has passed both courses with a score of 80% or higher, they will receive their American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor Certification. This certification allows them to teach American Red Cross Lifeguarding Courses at any facility that is approved by the American Red Cross.

Do You Really Need a Pool Manager Certificate?

Having a pool manager certificate can be a great asset if you are looking to manage, maintain or operate a swimming pool. A pool manager certificate is an official qualification given by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) and it shows that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage a swimming pool safely and effectively.

In order to obtain this certification, you must pass an exam covering topics such as pool safety, water chemistry, and maintenance. The NSPF also requires that applicants complete an extensive training program before taking the exam. This program covers topics such as risk management, customer service, and legal issues related to operating a swimming pool.

If you plan on managing or working at a public or private swimming pool then having a pool manager certificate is essential. It will ensure that you know the proper procedures for keeping swimmers safe, maintaining chemical levels in the water, and performing regular maintenance tasks. Having this certification can also help employers determine whether or not you are qualified for positions at their facilities.

Even if you are not planning on managing or working at a public or private swimming pool, it could still be beneficial to get certified in this area of expertise. Obtaining your certificate may open up new career opportunities in other areas of aquatics such as lifeguarding and teaching swim lessons. It may also help show potential employers that you have knowledge about the industry which could give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs.

Overall, getting your pool manager certificate can be extremely beneficial no matter what type of career path you plan on taking in the aquatics industry. It is important to make sure that any facility where swimmers will be present has certified personnel who understand how to keep everyone safe while enjoying their time in the water.

Related: Pool Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Pool Manager Certifications

1. What certifications are available for pool managers?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available, including Certified Pool Operator (CPO), Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO), National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO/SPA), and American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor (LGI).

2. How long does it take to get certified as a pool manager?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified varies depending on the certification and individual experience. Generally speaking, CPO certification can be completed in 2-3 days, AFO certification can take up to 2 weeks, NSPF CPO/SPA certification can take up to 4 days, and LGI certification may require several weeks of study.

3. Is there an age requirement for pool manager certifications?

Answer: Yes, most certifications have an age requirement of 18 or older. Some also require that the applicant hold a valid driver’s license or other form of identification.

4. What is the cost associated with getting certified as a pool manager?

Answer: Costs vary depending on the certification and the provider offering it. Generally speaking, CPO certification costs $200-$300, AFO certification costs $400-$500, NSPF CPO/SPA certification costs $350-$450, and LGI certification costs $250-$350.

5. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified as a pool manager?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require applicants to have basic knowledge about swimming pools and safety protocols prior to taking the course. Additionally, some providers may require applicants to pass an online exam before being accepted into their program.