Recreation Assistant Opportunity in Panama City, Florida with the Department of the Navy

Are you passionate about creating fun and engaging experiences for others? Do you have a knack for organization and a commitment to excellent customer service? The Department of the Navy, through the Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC), is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Recreation Assistant to join their team at Naval Support Activity Panama City. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) program, enhancing the quality of life for Navy service members and their families. If you're looking for a rewarding full-time role with comprehensive benefits in a supportive environment, this position might be the perfect fit for you.

About the Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC)

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is a vital organization responsible for providing essential shore support services to the U.S. Navy fleet, sailors, and their families worldwide. CNIC oversees a vast network of installations, ensuring that Navy communities have access to world-class programs and facilities. Their mission is to deliver consistent, secure, and high-quality support services that enable mission readiness and improve the overall quality of life for all Navy personnel.

Mission: To provide world-class programs that support Fleet, Fighter, and Family Readiness and improve quality of life.

Guiding Principles: Straight Talk, Value People, Encourage Innovation, Good Stewardship, Mission Integrity.

CNIC's Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) division is at the forefront of delivering these services. They manage a comprehensive range of programs, including Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), Child and Youth Programs (CYP), Fleet and Family Support Programs, Family and Unaccompanied Housing, and Galley Programs. By integrating these programs, FFR optimizes their effectiveness and ensures that Navy members and their families receive the best possible support.

Job Responsibilities: Crafting Memorable Recreation Experiences

As a Recreation Assistant, you will be instrumental in developing and executing a diverse array of leisure and recreational activities. Your primary role will be to create and lead engaging programs, workshops, and special events designed to cater to various interests and age groups within the Navy community. This includes activities such as camping, cycling, sailing, backpacking, canoeing, snow skiing, hiking, and water sports, as well as supporting traditional and non-traditional leisure skill workshops.

Key duties and responsibilities include:

• Customer Service & Program Support: Providing information and support to MWR customers, checking patron eligibility, ordering supplies, and preparing food or retail items for sale.
• Sales and Financial Accountability: Collecting fees for tickets, retail items, and program registrations using Point of Sale (POS) systems. You will be responsible for the accuracy of daily sales transactions and completing a Daily Activity Report (DAR).
• Equipment and Facility Management: Checking equipment and resources in and out, collecting rental fees, conducting inventory, and performing inspections. You will also be responsible for notifying supervisors of any damage or loss and ensuring proper procedures are followed.
• Event Support: Assisting in the day-to-day administration of programs, including data collection, submitting after-action reports, and supporting event set-up and break-down.
• Administrative Duties: Performing various administrative tasks, including creating documents, managing monthly calendars, answering telephones, and utilizing computer software for inventory tracking and patron management.
• Marketing and Outreach: Assisting in publicizing activities, updating promotional materials, and seeking opportunities to promote MWR facilities and events through on-base outreach.
• Partnership Development: Developing working relationships with on-base and off-base organizations to enhance MWR programs and assist in creating professional proposals and agreements.
• Information and Referral: Researching and providing information on recreational opportunities both on and off base.
• Sanitation and Maintenance: Adhering to sanitation requirements and initiating maintenance trouble calls to ensure facilities and equipment are in good working order.

This position is full-time, offering 40 hours per week, with work hours generally falling between 11:00 AM and 7:30 PM, though these may vary based on specific programming demands. You will also have the opportunity to work outdoors during special functions.

Requirements: Qualifications for Success

To be considered for this rewarding position, candidates must meet specific educational and experiential criteria. The evaluation process is rigorous, focusing on how well your resume supports your qualifications.

Minimum Qualifications:

• General Experience: Six months of general experience that demonstrates your ability to perform the duties of the position.
• Specialized Experience: Six months of specialized experience in customer service or related to recreation activity-based functions. This could include tasks like assisting in the organization and administration of recreation activities, preparing activity calendars, maintaining attendance records, or providing information about schedules and activities.

Alternatively, education can substitute for experience:

• Education: Successful completion of two years of study (at least 12 semester hours) in courses related to recreation, such as basic psychology, group dynamics, physical education, or arts and crafts.

Essential Abilities and Knowledge:

• Ability to organize, plan, and administer special events and entertainment activities.
• Capacity to work independently, make sound decisions, and communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of the goals, principles, techniques, and procedures used in organizing, planning, and conducting leisure time activities.
• Understanding of the Navy MWR mission and the scope of Community Recreation activities.
• Knowledge of the functions, procedures, and operations of recreation activities.
• Strong customer service skills are essential.
• Ability to maintain records, compile data for reports, and perform research.
• Proficiency in following oral and written instructions.
• Knowledge of computers, office procedures, and print production.

Important Notes:

• Resume Content: Your resume is paramount. It must clearly detail your experience, including all non-government positions with their full addresses and to/from dates, and government positions with their pay plan, series, grade, to/from dates, and agency address. Volunteer experience is also considered.
• Occupational Questionnaire: You must complete the occupational questionnaire accurately, and your resume MUST support and validate your answers. Failure to do so may result in removal from consideration.
• Verification: All qualifications will be verified. Do not overstate your experience or capabilities.
• Key Requirements: Male applicants must be registered or exempt from Selective Service. The selected candidate must be deemed suitable for federal employment, may need to complete a probationary period, and must participate in the direct deposit pay program. A Social Security Card is required, and an employment verification (E-VERIFY) check must be successfully completed. As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or passport will be required to access Government Facilities. A favorable background investigation is mandatory.

Salary Overview

The hourly pay rate for this Recreation Assistant position ranges from $17.00 to $19.00 per hour. The specific salary will be determined based on the applicant's qualifications, including their experience and education.

Benefits Package

Working for the Department of the Navy offers a robust benefits package designed to support the well-being and financial security of its employees. While specific details may vary, typical benefits include:

• Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans.
• Life Insurance: Options for employee, spouse, and dependent life insurance.
• Disability Insurance: Long-term disability coverage.
• Retirement Savings: Access to a retirement plan and a 401(k) savings plan.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual (vacation) and sick leave.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for tuition reimbursement to support continued learning.
• Work-Life Balance: A commitment to fostering a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.
• Stability: The security and predictability associated with federal civilian service.

How to Apply

Applying for this position is a multi-step process managed through the USAJOBS platform:

1. Create/Login to USAJOBS Account: If you don't have one, create an account on USAJOBS.gov. If you already have an account, log in.
2. Start Application: Navigate to the vacancy announcement and click the 'Apply Online' button.
3. Complete Questionnaire: Fill out the occupational questionnaire accurately and honestly. You can preview it using the provided link to prepare your responses.
4. Submit Resume: Upload a detailed resume that clearly outlines your qualifications, experience, and education. Ensure it aligns with the requirements and your questionnaire answers. Remember, federal resumes often require more detail than private sector resumes.
5. Upload Supporting Documents: Attach all necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, certifications, DD-214, SF-15, etc., as listed in the 'Required Documents' section.
6. Review and Submit: Before submitting, carefully review your entire application package for completeness and accuracy. Ensure it is submitted by the Application Close Date: September 7, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Crucial Reminder: Ensure your application is complete and submitted by the deadline. Incomplete applications or those missing required documents may not be considered.

Application Tips for Success

• Read Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with every section of the vacancy announcement.
• Detail Your Experience: Be specific in your resume. Clearly describe your duties, responsibilities, and the total hours worked per week for each position.
• Align Resume with Questionnaire: Your resume must directly support your answers to the occupational questionnaire. If there's a discrepancy or lack of detail, you might be rated lower or deemed ineligible.
• Federal Resume Standards: For government positions, include the pay plan, series, grade, to/from dates, and the agency's address. Ensure volunteer work is also detailed.
• Preference Documentation: If you are claiming Veteran's Preference or any other special preference, submit all required proof (e.g., DD-214, SF-15) at the time of application.
• Accuracy Check: Verify all information submitted. HR will not make corrections to your application materials.
• Stay Informed: Monitor your email regularly for any communications from USAJOBS or the hiring agency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the pay range for this position? A: The hourly pay rate is between $17.00 and $19.00.

Q2: Is this a permanent or temporary position? A: This announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies within 90 days of the closing date, and the position itself is described as full-time with benefits, suggesting a permanent role within the NAF system.

Q3: What kind of experience is considered 'specialized experience'? A: Specialized experience includes performing duties directly related to assisting in the organization and administration of recreation activities, such as creating activity schedules, managing attendance records, or providing program information.

Q4: Can I apply if I don't have a degree in Recreation? A: Yes, you can qualify with either six months of general and six months of specialized experience, OR a combination of education and experience that equates to the requirements, such as two years of study with 12 relevant semester hours. Your resume must clearly demonstrate how your experience or education meets the criteria.

Q5: What if my resume is longer than two pages? A: The 'Required Documents' section specifies that the resume is limited to two pages. Ensure you are concise and focus on relevant experience. Federal resume guides can help maximize content within the page limit.

Q6: Do I need a security clearance? A: While a full security clearance might not be required, the position is described as 'Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk' and requires suitability/fitness adjudication, potentially including an Access National Agency Check investigation (ANACI) and submission of a Financial Disclosure Statement.

This Recreation Assistant position with the Department of the Navy offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of Navy personnel and their families. By leveraging your skills in organization, customer service, and program support, you can help foster a vibrant and supportive community environment. With a competitive hourly wage, a comprehensive benefits package, and the stability of federal employment, this role is an excellent choice for individuals dedicated to service and community building. Take the first step in advancing your career by submitting a thorough and compelling application today!