Embark on a Rewarding Career: Water Safety Instructor at NAS Sigonella

Are you a certified water safety expert looking to make a difference while living abroad? The Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella in Sicily is currently seeking a motivated Recreation Assistant to join their MWR Aquatics team. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to support the health, safety, and morale of the U.S. military community in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.

Job Responsibilities

As a Recreation Assistant (Water Safety Instructor), your day-to-day duties will be varied and impactful. You will not only ensure the safety of patrons in the pool area but also provide structured instruction in swimming skills and diving. Your key responsibilities include:

Lifeguarding: Monitoring pool activities to ensure compliance with safety protocols and acting immediately in emergency situations.
Instruction: Teaching swimming styles and safety techniques to individuals of various ages.
Facility Maintenance: Ensuring the pool area is sanitized, clean, and properly maintained.
Reporting: Documenting accident reports and managing course records for the Red Cross.
Authorization: Verifying patron identification to maintain secure access to the facility.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet specific criteria regarding experience and certification. Candidates should have:

Experience: Six months of general experience paired with six months of specialized experience in recreation or aquatics.
Education: Alternatively, two years of post-high school education with at least 12 semester hours in recreation-related courses.
Certifications: Current American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI), Lifeguard Training, First Aid, and CPR certificates.

Eligibility Requirements Table

Criteria	Requirement
Citizenship	Non-Italian citizen (NATO SOFA rules)
Certifications	Valid WSI, CPR, and Lifeguard
Education	Min 12 sem hours in recreation or 1yr exp
Risk Level	Low Risk / Non-sensitive

Salary Overview

This position offers an hourly rate of $17.25. As a flexible status position (0-40 hours per week), it offers the ability to balance your professional responsibilities with the unique lifestyle requirements of living in Italy.

Benefits

Working for the Navy MWR program provides access to professional development opportunities, a drug-free workplace, and the pride of serving the U.S. Navy mission. While this is a flexible position, it is part of a global network of MWR services that prioritize employee well-being.

Application Tips

Be Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use this space to highlight your aquatic teaching experience.
Documentation is Key: Ensure your Red Cross certifications are scanned and ready. Missing certifications are a common reason for disqualification.
SOFA Compliance: Before applying, confirm your residency status. If you are 'ordinarily resident' in Italy, you are ineligible.

If you have the skills to keep a community safe and the passion to teach others the joy of swimming, this role at NAS Sigonella is the perfect fit. Start your journey today by ensuring your USAJOBS profile is complete and your application is submitted before the deadline.

Why This Recreation Assistant (Water Safety Instructor) - Flexible Job Matters

Make a splash in sunny Sicily! Join the Navy MWR team at NAS Sigonella as a Water Safety Instructor and help build a safer, more active military community.

Recreation Assistant (Water Safety Instructor) - Flexible Job Overview

The Commander, Navy Installations Command is seeking a proactive and safety-conscious Recreation Assistant to join the Aquatics Section at Naval Air Station Sigonella. In this role, you will serve as a vital part of the MWR team, acting as both a lifeguard and a skilled instructor for swimming programs. This position is perfect for individuals who thrive in aquatic environments and are dedicated to promoting water safety and recreational wellness for military personnel and their families stationed in Italy.

Requirements for Recreation Assistant (Water Safety Instructor) - Flexible

Six months of general work experience plus six months of specialized experience in an aquatic or recreational setting.
Alternatively, two years of post-high school education including 12 semester hours of recreation-related coursework.
Must hold a current American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (or equivalent) certification.
Must possess current Lifeguard Training, First Aid, and CPR certifications.
Must be able to pass a background check and maintain fitness for duty.
Candidates must not be Italian dual nationals or 'ordinarily resident' in Italy under NATO SOFA agreements.

Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Assistant (Water Safety Instructor) - Flexible

Strong communication skills for instructing diverse age groups.
Proven ability to remain calm and decisive during emergency situations.
Experience with pool maintenance and facility sanitation protocols.
Demonstrated ability to manage and supervise groups of people in aquatic settings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly compensation.
✓Supportive work environment within the Navy MWR department.
✓Opportunities to contribute to the well-being of the military community.
✓Access to a variety of NAF employment benefits programs.

💡 How to Apply Recreation Assistant (Water Safety Instructor) - Flexible Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Recreation Assistant (Water Safety Instructor) - Flexible Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review the specific document requirements, including your resume, certifications, and proof of education.
Complete the online questionnaire as prompted during the application process.
Upload all necessary supporting documents such as your passport, PCS orders, and certifications.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is limited to two pages as requested.
Make sure all certifications (WSI, CPR, Lifeguard) are current and clearly attached.
If you are using education as a qualification, ensure your transcripts are ready to be uploaded.
Double-check your eligibility under the NATO SOFA agreement to avoid disqualification.
Monitor your email for status updates after you submit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am an Italian citizen?

No, the NATO Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) prohibits the hiring of individuals who hold Italian citizenship or are considered dual nationals for this position.

What is the expected schedule for this position?

This is a flexible schedule position offering between 0 and 40 hours per week, depending on operational requirements.

Do I need to be a military spouse to apply?

This position is open to individuals under specific hiring paths, including military spouses, but it is best to review the full announcement for detailed eligibility criteria.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, relocation benefits are not offered for this position.*

What if my certification is expired?

*A: You must hold current, valid certifications at the time of application to be considered.*

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) serves as the backbone of shore-based support for the U.S. Navy. The MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) department is dedicated to providing quality programs that enhance the lives of sailors, their families, and the civilian workforce. Working with the CNREURAFCENT team in Sigonella, you will be part of a vibrant team committed to excellence, safety, and community service.