Launch Your Career: Recreation Assistant at Kadena Marina

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact within the military community in Okinawa? The Pacific Air Forces are currently seeking a motivated and customer-focused individual to join the team as a Recreation Assistant at the Kadena Marina. This role is a vital part of the Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) organization, helping ensure our service members and their families have access to high-quality recreational equipment and services.

Job Responsibilities

As a Recreation Assistant, your daily duties will be diverse and engaging. Key responsibilities include:

Customer Support: Greeting customers, providing information on services, and assisting with equipment rentals.
Operations Management: Maintaining equipment, checking items for damage upon return, and facilitating routine repairs.
Sales and Cash Handling: Managing the register, processing payments, and assisting with resale merchandise inventory.
Event Coordination: Assisting in the setup and execution of special events and activities.
Facility Maintenance: Ensuring the marina environment remains clean, safe, and welcoming for all patrons.

Comparison: Standard vs. NAF Roles

Feature	Standard Federal Role	NAF Role (Recreation Assistant)
Funding Source	Appropriated Funds	Non-appropriated Funds
Primary Focus	Mission Support	Morale, Welfare, & Recreation
Benefits	Standard Civil Service	NAF-specific Benefits

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Status: Must possess SOFA sponsorship in Okinawa.
Experience: Documented customer service experience with cash handling capabilities.
Physical Standards: Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
Skills: Proficiency in basic computer tasks and clear communication skills are essential.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $16.55 to $17.55 per hour. Pay is determined based on qualifications and specific organizational guidelines.

Benefits

Working for NAF provides unique advantages. Employees enjoy a rewarding environment that supports the health and happiness of the Kadena Air Base community, along with access to specific NAF benefit programs.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Clearly describe your experience with customer service and cash management.
Proof of Eligibility: Ensure your SOFA documentation is clear and attached.
Follow Deadlines: The announcement closes on July 27, 2026. Do not miss this window.

If you enjoy being on the water and helping others, the Recreation Assistant position at Kadena Marina is an ideal career step. Apply today to contribute to the mission of Team Kadena!

Why This Recreation Assistant Job Matters

Join the team at Kadena Marina as a Recreation Assistant and help power the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation activities for Team Kadena in Okinawa!

Recreation Assistant Job Overview

This position offers a unique opportunity to work within a Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) environment at the Kadena Marina, located at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. As a Recreation Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting facility operations, assisting customers with equipment rentals, managing resale merchandise, and facilitating special events for our military community. This is a dynamic role perfect for someone with a customer service focus and an interest in outdoor recreation support.

Requirements for Recreation Assistant

Must hold current SOFA sponsorship in Okinawa, Japan.
Must be a US citizen or a legal US resident who is a citizen of a NATO country with a valid social security number.
Proven customer service experience involving face-to-face and phone interactions.
Demonstrated experience in cash handling and point-of-sale operations.
Basic computer literacy for office and record-keeping tasks.
Ability to perform physically active work, including lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Ability to complete a pre-employment certification statement for Selective Service if applicable.

Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Assistant

Fluency or proficiency in the Japanese language.
Experience in outdoor recreation, equipment rental, or retail environments.
Familiarity with inventory control and resource protection procedures.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) employment benefits.
✓Access to MWR facilities and community activities.
✓Post Allowance provided for Regular Full Time positions.
✓Opportunity to work in a unique, world-class international environment.

💡 How to Apply Recreation Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Recreation Assistant Job

Create or log in to your USAJobs account.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
Prepare your resume detailing all relevant customer service and cash handling experience.
Gather required documentation, including proof of SOFA status.
Upload all supporting documents and verify they have passed the virus scan.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline on July 27, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes detailed contact information for professional references.
Sanitize sensitive personal information from documents before uploading, if necessary.
Double-check that all mandatory documents, especially proof of SOFA status, are attached.
Use the USAJobs application status dashboard to monitor your submission progress.
Do not wait until the last minute, as document uploads may take time to process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary requirement for this position regarding location?

Applicants must currently reside in Okinawa, Japan, and possess SOFA sponsorship.

Is education substitution allowed?

No, this specific position does not allow for education to be substituted for the required experience.

Is there a relocation allowance?

No, payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized for this role.

Do I need a security clearance?

No, this position is designated as non-sensitive and does not require a clearance.

Can I apply if I am not currently in Japan?

This role is specifically for those with SOFA sponsorship already in Okinawa.

Job from Pacific Air Forces

Air Force Services (NAF) manages a wide range of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs designed to boost the quality of life for the military community. Kadena Air Base is the central hub of airpower in the Pacific and home to the 18th Wing. By joining our team, you become part of "Team Kadena," an organization that values professionalism, service, and community support.