Become a Lifeguard at Cannon Air Force Base: A Rewarding Career Opportunity
Are you a certified lifeguard looking to make a difference in your community? The Air Force Special Operations Command is currently seeking dedicated individuals to fill the role of Recreation Aid (Lifeguard) at the DZ Aquatic Center on Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide essential safety services to our nation’s airmen and their families while gaining valuable experience in a professional, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Recreation Aid, your primary responsibility is the safety of all patrons. Your daily tasks will include:
- Vigilant Monitoring: Continuously observing the pool area to prevent accidents and respond to emergencies.
- Safety Enforcement: Admitting only authorized personnel and enforcing facility rules to keep the environment safe.
- Emergency Response: Performing water rescues, administering first aid, and managing medical emergencies as they arise.
- Maintenance: Ensuring water chemistry meets standards, inspecting diving boards for safety, and performing routine cleaning of pool decks and bathhouses.
Comparison: Lifeguard Duties at Cannon AFB
| Feature | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Patron safety and water rescue |
| Required Certification | Nationally recognized Lifesaving/CPR/First Aid |
| Typical Environment | DZ Aquatic Center (Pool) |
| Schedule Flexibility | 0 to 40 hours per week (Flexible) |
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet specific qualifications:
- Current nationally recognized certification in lifesaving and water rescue.
- Valid CPR (adult and child) and first aid training.
- Ability to pass a Tier 1 background investigation and criminal records check.
- Applicants born after December 31, 1959, must register for Selective Service.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly rate between $17.00 and $17.99 per hour. While this is a flexible, non-benefit-eligible position, it provides an excellent entry point into federal service and offers a supportive work environment in a well-equipped facility.
Application Tips
- Highlight Your Certifications: Ensure your resume clearly lists your expiration dates for all required lifesaving credentials.
- Be Detailed: Include any volunteer experience related to water safety, as this is weighted equally with paid experience.
- Monitor Your Status: Keep an eye on your email for notifications regarding your application status, as updates will be sent directly to you during the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I don't have experience? *A: While previous experience is preferred, you must hold the required certifications to be considered. We encourage those with strong skills to apply.
Q: Is relocation assistance available? *A: No, relocation costs are not authorized for this position.
Serving as a lifeguard at Cannon Air Force Base is more than just a job; it is a way to support those who serve. If you are qualified, reliable, and ready to work in a fast-paced, professional environment, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Recreation Aid (Lifeguard) Job Matters
Make a splash in your career and keep our community safe at the DZ Aquatic Center. We are looking for dedicated lifeguards to join the Air Force Special Operations Command team at Cannon Air Force Base!
Recreation Aid (Lifeguard) Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking proactive and vigilant Recreation Aids (Lifeguards) to ensure the safety of patrons at the DZ Aquatic Center on Cannon Air Force Base. This flexible, Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position is vital to maintaining a secure and enjoyable aquatic environment for our service members and their families.
Requirements for Recreation Aid (Lifeguard)
- Must hold a current, nationally recognized certification in lifesaving and water rescue.
- Must possess current certifications in CPR (Adult and Child) and basic first aid.
- For coastal lifeguard applicants: Must have documented surf rescue techniques training.
- Must successfully complete a Tier 1 level background investigation.
- Must pass installation records checks and state/national criminal background screenings.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or meet specific U.S. territory residency requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Aid (Lifeguard)
- Proven experience in maintaining swimming area standards, including water chemistry testing and equipment maintenance.
- Demonstrated ability to identify and mitigate safety hazards in and around pool environments.
- Experience in customer service within a recreational or fitness facility setting.
- Strong communication skills for enforcing facility rules and safety protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Flexible scheduling opportunities (0 to 40 hours per week).
- ✓Gain professional experience with a Department of Defense organization.
- ✓Access to a dynamic work environment within a supportive military community.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Recreation Aid (Lifeguard) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Recreation Aid (Lifeguard) Job
- Create or log into your USAJobs account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement requirements.
- Prepare your resume, ensuring it highlights all relevant water safety and lifeguarding experience.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including certifications and proof of eligibility.
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your experience in water safety and lifeguarding—volunteer experience counts!
- Verify that all certification documents are valid and clearly visible.
- Double-check your application for completeness before hitting submit; incomplete packages will not be considered.
- If claiming preference (e.g., Military Spouse Preference), ensure all required proof is attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a full-time position?
This is a flexible position with no guaranteed hours, though you may be scheduled for up to 40 hours per week depending on operational needs.
What is a NAF position?
NAF stands for Non-Appropriated Fund. These positions support Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs for the military and are funded by the revenue generated by these programs.
Do I need a security clearance?
A formal security clearance is not required; however, you must pass a Tier 1 background investigation and standard criminal record checks.
Job from Air Force Special Operations Command
The Department of the Air Force and the 27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron (27 SOFSS/FSWO) manage various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities. These services are vital to the health, fitness, and well-being of the military community. Working for an NAF (Non-Appropriated Fund) organization allows you to become part of a team dedicated to supporting the quality of life on base.
