Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard): Career Opportunities at Fort Eustis
Are you a certified water safety professional with a passion for leadership? The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) to oversee aquatic operations at the Fort Eustis Aquatics Center. This role is perfect for experienced lifeguards ready to transition into a lead role, providing safety and instruction to the military community.
Job Responsibilities
As a lead, your duties extend beyond monitoring the water. You will be responsible for:
- Team Leadership: Supervising three or more lifeguards, conducting on-the-job training, and reviewing work performance.
- Safety Operations: Monitoring swimming areas, enforcing rules, and performing rescues or first aid as needed.
- Facility Maintenance: Monitoring pool chemistry (pH, chlorine, temperature) and ensuring the cleanliness of decks, locker rooms, and showers.
- Instruction: Teaching swimming lessons to individuals and groups according to established lesson plans.
- Administration: Completing incident reports and daily logs.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must hold the following valid, nationally recognized certifications:
- Lifeguard Certification
- Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification
- Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) Certification
- CPR (Adult/Pediatric) and First Aid Certification
Comparison Table: General vs. Specialized Requirements
| Requirement Type | Essential Criteria |
|---|---|
| Safety Certs | Current Lifeguard, CPR, First Aid |
| Instructor Certs | Current WSI and LGI |
| Background | Successful NACI and physical exam |
| Eligibility | US Citizenship and residency standards |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $17.00 to $20.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Working for the Air Force NAF provides a unique opportunity to gain experience in a professional, structured environment that values safety and community well-being.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Your resume must explicitly describe your experience in both lifesaving and teaching.
- Documentation: Ensure all certification cards are current and uploaded clearly.
- Sanitize: If your supporting documents (like marriage certificates) contain someone else's personal data, you may sanitize those portions.
This role is an excellent opportunity to utilize your aquatic expertise in a meaningful setting. Apply through the USAJobs portal to start your journey at Fort Eustis.
Why This Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Job Matters
Dive into a meaningful career as a Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) and make a splash at the Fort Eustis Aquatics Center!
Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Job Overview
Join the Department of the Air Force as a Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) at Fort Eustis, Virginia. In this role, you will lead a team of lifeguards, oversee pool safety operations, maintain water chemistry, and provide instructional swimming lessons to patrons. This is a vital Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position that contributes directly to the morale, welfare, and recreation of our service members and their families.
Requirements for Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard)
- Possession of a current, nationally recognized Lifeguard certification.
- Valid Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification.
- Valid Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) certification.
- Current certification in basic first aid and CPR (pediatric and adult).
- Ability to successfully complete a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI).
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical.
- Registration with Selective Service for male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959.
- Must be able to provide identification for installation access.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard)
- Practical knowledge of instructional teaching methods for aquatics.
- Experience in pool maintenance and chemical balancing.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and train aquatic staff.
- Experience maintaining facility logs and incident reports.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Non-appropriated fund employment stability.
- ✓Professional development opportunities.
- ✓Direct support of the military community.
- ✓Access to on-base amenities.
💡 How to Apply Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJobs account.
- Review the specific requirements and documentation listed in the vacancy.
- Prepare your resume detailing all relevant paid and volunteer aquatic experience.
- Complete the online questionnaire linked in the announcement.
- Upload all required certifications (WSI, LGI, Lifeguard, CPR/First Aid).
- Submit your application package before the deadline on August 31, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your instructional and leadership experience.
- Double-check that all uploaded certifications are current and valid.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information from supplemental documents if necessary.
- Monitor your email for status updates and requests for further information.
- Preview the online questionnaire early to ensure you have all needed information ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a NAF position?
NAF stands for Non-Appropriated Fund. These positions support Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs for the military community and are funded primarily through the sales of goods and services rather than taxpayer dollars.
Can I substitute education for the lifeguard experience?
No, this specific position requires verified practical experience and specific nationally recognized certifications, so education cannot be substituted for the experience requirements.
What is the weekly hour commitment?
This is a Regular Part Time (RPT) position guaranteed at 20 hours per week.
Does this position require a security clearance?
No, however, you must complete a background check (NACI).
Job from Air Combat Command
The Air Force Services Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) team manages diverse programs that support the morale and welfare of military personnel, families, and civilians. By joining the team at Fort Eustis, you are contributing to a vital support system that keeps our service members active and connected.