Become a Water Survival Training Instructor: A Career with Purpose
Are you a skilled diver with a passion for safety and education? The Department of the Navy is looking for a Training Instructor to join the Aviation Survival Training Center (ASTC) at Miramar in San Diego, CA. This role is pivotal in ensuring that aviation personnel are trained to survive the most challenging emergency situations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Training Instructor, your daily tasks are diverse and safety-critical:
- Instructional Delivery: Lead classroom sessions and in-water training for aviation personnel.
- Safety Operations: Serve as a Safety Diver for the 9D6 training device to ensure all participants are secure during drills.
- Device Operation: Operate specialized water survival equipment and training simulators.
- Administration: Manage training records, prepare reports, and maintain classroom electronic files.
- Mentorship: Evaluate students and provide constructive feedback to improve survival skills.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet specific qualifications:
- Specialized Experience: At least one year at the GS-07 level (or equivalent) in a professional or private sector environment.
- Diving Qualification: Proven experience qualifying and maintaining diving standards, ideally with Navy Dive School experience.
- Software Literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Access) for data management.
- Security: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
- Format: Resumes must be concise, capped at 2 pages.
Salary and Benefits
This position is classified under the GS pay scale with an annual salary range of $70,507 to $91,664. Beyond the salary, employees receive:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Health/Life Insurance | Comprehensive federal plans available |
| Retirement | Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) and pension options |
| Leave | Accrual of sick and annual leave plus 11 paid federal holidays |
| Professional Development | Ongoing training and career advancement paths |
Application Tips
- Highlight Your Experience: Be specific about your diving certifications and training hours.
- Use the Resume Builder: This ensures you do not miss required fields like 'hours per week' and 'job series.'
- Prepare for Assessments: You will be required to take USA Hire assessments; set aside at least two hours of quiet time to complete them.
- Check Deadlines: Applications close August 10, 2026. Do not wait until the final hour.
Joining the Navy as a Water Survival Training Instructor is more than a job—it is a mission. If you have the technical diving background and a drive to protect those who protect us, we encourage you to apply. Use the official application portal to submit your documents and take the first step toward a fulfilling federal career.
Why This Training Instructor (Water Survival) Job Matters
Dive into a rewarding career supporting our nation's finest: Become a Water Survival Training Instructor with the U.S. Navy in beautiful San Diego.
Training Instructor (Water Survival) Job Overview
The Naval Medical Command is seeking a dedicated Training Instructor to join the Aviation Survival Training Center (ASTC) in Miramar, California. In this critical role, you will facilitate essential water survival training, ensuring aviation personnel are prepared for emergency scenarios. You will serve as a lead instructor, safety swimmer, and training device operator, maintaining the highest safety standards during complex aquatic drills. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine your technical expertise with a commitment to public service in a high-impact military environment.
Requirements for Training Instructor (Water Survival)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-07 level.
- Experience in qualifying and maintaining diving qualifications.
- Experience with Navy Dive School or equivalent professional training.
- Proficiency in utilizing automated systems and office software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) for data management and reporting.
- Proven ability to prepare detailed reports and manage electronic documentation.
- Must be able to pass a background investigation for a Secret security clearance.
- Resume must be limited to 2 pages maximum.
Preferred Qualifications for Training Instructor (Water Survival)
- Academic background in education or relevant subject matter fields.
- Strong interpersonal skills with a focus on team collaboration.
- Experience in training program administration.
- Demonstrated proficiency in oral communication and instructional delivery.
- Expertise in interpreting federal regulations and safety protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Access to on-base facilities and services
💡 How to Apply Training Instructor (Water Survival) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Training Instructor (Water Survival) Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, highlighting specific diving and instructional experience.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the August 10, 2026, deadline.
- Complete the required questionnaire and upload all supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50s, etc.).
- Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
- Complete the online assessments within 48 hours of notification.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory employment details are included.
- Clearly label your diving certifications and training experience as these are key qualifiers.
- If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 clearly shows your grade and time-in-grade.
- Check your application status frequently via the USAJobs dashboard.
- Redact sensitive personal information like SSNs from supporting documents before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Training Instructor (Water Survival)?
You will act as the primary instructor and safety diver for water survival training devices, facilitating classroom and in-water safety protocols for aviation personnel.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.
Can I substitute education for experience?
Yes, candidates may substitute a Master's degree, two full years of graduate education, or a J.D./LL.B. for the required specialized experience.
Is relocation incentive available?
While no PCS costs are paid, a relocation incentive may be authorized at the agency's discretion.
Can I update my application after submission?
Yes, you can edit your application via the USAJobs dashboard until the announcement closes.
Who should I contact if I have technical issues?
For specific help, reach out to the DON Employment Information Center at [email protected].
Job from Naval Medical Command
The Department of the Navy (DON) offers a unique intersection of military and civilian careers. Working within the Naval Medical Command, you will be part of an organization dedicated to the safety, readiness, and success of our sailors and marines. Civilian employees in the Navy enjoy a culture that values patriotism, professional growth, and meaningful contributions to national security.