Launch Your Career as a Lifeguard at White Sands Missile Range

Are you looking for a role that combines physical activity, professional training, and the chance to support our military families? The United States Army Installation Management Command is currently hiring for a Recreation Aid (Trainee-Lifeguard) at the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) in New Mexico. This is a unique opportunity to build a career in a premier Department of Defense facility.

Job Responsibilities

As a trainee, you will begin under close supervision. Your primary focus will be participating in mandatory training sessions to obtain your Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR certifications. Once certified, you will transition into the role of a certified Lifeguard, responsible for:

Monitoring pool activities to ensure guest safety.
Responding to emergency situations in accordance with established safety protocols.
Performing regular maintenance and facility checks.
Providing exceptional customer service to all patrons.

Comparison: Trainee vs. Certified Lifeguard

Feature	Trainee Stage	Certified Stage
Primary Focus	Learning & Certification	Active Guarding & Safety
Supervision	Constant/Close	Independent/Standard
Duties	Attending Training/Classes	Pool Monitoring/Customer Care
Employment	Initial 30-Day Period	Ongoing Appointment

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate basic swimming proficiency and a commitment to completing certification training within 30 days of hire. Candidates should be comfortable working flexible hours, as this is a FLEX position with variable schedules between 0 and 40 hours per week.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $15.00 to $18.00 per hour. As an Army NAF employee, you gain access to an impressive suite of benefits, including:

401(k) retirement planning.
Access to on-base amenities, including gyms, bowling centers, and libraries.
Opportunities for professional growth and skill certification.
A vibrant community environment near the scenic Organ Mountains.

Application Tips

Keep it Brief: Your resume must be two pages or less to be considered.
References Matter: Include the contact information for your professional references directly on your resume.
Stay Prepared: Ensure your documents are in PDF format to maintain formatting during the upload process.

If you are ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling career with the U.S. Army, apply today. By joining the MWR team at White Sands Missile Range, you will gain invaluable skills while serving those who serve our country. Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date of September 3, 2026.

Why This Recreation Aid (Trainee-Lifeguard) Nf-01 Job Matters

Dive into a rewarding career supporting our military community at White Sands Missile Range as a Trainee Lifeguard.

Recreation Aid (Trainee-Lifeguard) Nf-01 Job Overview

The Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) at White Sands Missile Range is seeking motivated individuals to join our Aquatics team. This trainee position serves as the foundation for your career as a professional lifeguard. You will work in a supportive environment, gaining necessary certifications and hands-on experience under expert supervision, ultimately contributing to the safety and well-being of Service Members and their families.

Requirements for Recreation Aid (Trainee-Lifeguard) Nf-01

Must be able to swim and actively participate in all lifeguard certification training programs.
Must complete mandatory certifications within 30 days of employment.
Resume must be two pages or less.
Ability to work in a flexible environment (0-40 hours per week).
Must adhere to all safety and facility guidelines.

Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Aid (Trainee-Lifeguard) Nf-01

Prior experience in customer service or public recreation settings.
Familiarity with standard aquatic safety protocols.
Strong communication skills and professional demeanor.
Ability to work well within a team-oriented, supervised environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay
✓Access to on-base amenities including fitness centers and swimming pools
✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
✓Eligibility for 401(k) retirement plans
✓Paid time off and federal holidays for eligible status employees
✓Exposure to a supportive military-community environment

💡 How to Apply Recreation Aid (Trainee-Lifeguard) Nf-01 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Recreation Aid (Trainee-Lifeguard) Nf-01 Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire.
Upload all necessary supporting documents including certifications or military preference forms.
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 3, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and focused on relevant skills and experience.
Include contact details for professional references directly on your resume.
Double-check your email inbox for status updates to avoid missing communications.
Review the Applicant Information Kit provided by the Army to ensure your application meets all federal standards.
Save documents as PDFs to ensure proper formatting and file size limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a FLEX position mean?

A FLEX position indicates that your working hours can fluctuate between 0 and 40 hours per week, depending on operational needs and facility scheduling.

Are the lifeguarding certifications provided?

Yes, this is a trainee position. You are required to participate in and successfully complete all necessary certifications within 30 days of your start date.

What happens after I complete my training?

Upon successful certification, you will be non-competitively reassigned to the official Recreation Aid (Lifeguard) position to begin active duty at the facility.

Do I need prior experience?

No, this is a training position designed for those ready to learn the skills necessary for lifeguarding.

Where is the job located?

This position is at the Aquatics Center within the White Sands Missile Range, NM.

Job from United States Army Installation Management Command

The Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) at White Sands Missile Range is dedicated to enhancing the lives of Service Members, their families, and the civilian workforce. By providing essential services—ranging from aquatic safety to fitness and hospitality—the MWR team is a vital part of the base’s mission. Working here means more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and community support.