Launch Your Career as a Fitness Specialist with the U.S. Navy
Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for health and wellness with a commitment to serving those who protect our nation? The Department of the Navy is currently hiring a Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist) at Naval Station Norfolk. This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to the physical readiness of active-duty personnel while working in a world-class facility.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fitness Specialist, your days will be diverse and highly active. You will serve as an expert in human performance, responsible for:
- Program Instruction: Leading individual and group exercise sessions, from strength training to aquatic fitness.
- Fitness Testing: Conducting assessments for body composition, endurance, and aerobic capacity.
- Operations Support: Ensuring the safety and cleanliness of gym equipment and facilities.
- Outreach: Collaborating with Command Fitness Leaders to support physical readiness requirements.
- Administration: Tracking attendance, maintenance logs, and fitness progress reports.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must demonstrate a strong foundation in recreation or physical education. Key requirements include:
- Proficiency in exercise principles and safe equipment operation.
- Strong communication skills for teaching large groups or one-on-one sessions.
- Ability to use Microsoft Office for data analysis and reporting.
- A relevant educational background or equivalent specialized experience.
Qualifications Comparison
| Requirement | Minimum Standard | Preferred Enhancement |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Undergraduate Degree | Graduate-Level Education |
| Experience | Fundamental Fitness | Specialized Military Wellness |
| Tech Skills | Basic Microsoft Office | Data Analysis & Reporting |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $19.50. Beyond the paycheck, the Navy provides a robust environment for professional growth, including access to specialized training and the opportunity to impact military readiness directly.
Application Tips
When applying for federal positions, specificity is your best friend. Ensure your resume highlights your specific experience with fitness instruction. Don't just list your tasks; describe the impact of your work, such as how you improved gym attendance or helped a group reach their physical fitness goals.
Remember: All documents must be uploaded at the time of application. Failure to include transcripts or preference documentation (like a DD-214) can lead to disqualification.
This is more than just a gym job—it is a front-line position in ensuring the health of the U.S. Navy. If you are ready to take your career to the next level in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment, we encourage you to apply by the July 13, 2026, deadline.
Why This Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist) Job Matters
Transform lives and boost mission readiness as a Fitness Specialist at Naval Station Norfolk. Join the Commander, Navy Installations Command team and lead the charge in Navy health and wellness.
Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist) Job Overview
The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is seeking a dynamic Fitness Specialist to join the Fleet and Family Readiness team in Norfolk, Virginia. In this role, you will play a vital part in maintaining the physical readiness of the Navy force. You will be responsible for designing and delivering tailored exercise programs, conducting fitness assessments, and overseeing facility safety and equipment maintenance to ensure high-quality wellness services for active-duty personnel and the broader military community.
Requirements for Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship (or eligibility for federal employment).
- Possession of a degree in recreation, physical education, or a closely related field, OR equivalent specialized experience.
- Ability to design and lead effective group and individual fitness programs.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Ability to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing, to deliver training and reports.
- Competence in fitness testing, including aerobic capacity, body composition, and endurance assessment.
Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist)
- One full year of graduate-level education in a related field.
- Professional certifications in personal training or group fitness instruction.
- Demonstrated experience in implementing the Navy Operational Fitness and Fueling System (NOFFS).
- Proven track record in facility management and equipment safety protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Meaningful work supporting the U.S. Navy mission.
- ✓Access to a comprehensive federal wellness and employment framework.
💡 How to Apply Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting your fitness-related experience.
- Gather supporting documents such as college transcripts, licenses, and relevant military documentation (DD-214, PCS orders, etc.).
- Complete the online application questionnaire through the provided portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of July 13, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details how your past experience maps to the job responsibilities listed in the announcement.
- Double-check that your transcripts are clear, legible, and include your name, degree, and date of conferral.
- If you are claiming preference (Veteran, Military Spouse, etc.), ensure all relevant supporting documentation is uploaded at the time of initial application.
- Submit your materials early to avoid any last-minute technical issues on the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
The Fitness Specialist supports the Fleet and Family Readiness program by ensuring service members are physically prepared through structured training, testing, and comprehensive wellness initiatives.
Is a security clearance required?
This position requires a non-sensitive/low-risk background check, specifically focused on suitability and fitness for federal employment.
What documentation is required for education?
Applicants must provide a copy of their college transcripts showing the awarding institution, the degree received, and the field of study.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is the shore-based authority for the U.S. Navy. The Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) division works to provide a high quality of life for military families, including support for fitness, recreation, and housing. By working here, you aren't just an employee; you are a vital contributor to the operational readiness of the fleet.