Launch Your Career at the U.S. Air Force Academy Arts and Crafts Center

Are you looking for a role that blends customer service with creative expression? The U.S. Air Force Academy is seeking a dedicated Recreation Aid to support the operations of the Arts and Crafts Center in Colorado. This role is perfect for individuals who enjoy working in a community-oriented environment, providing logistical support to hobbyists, and ensuring a safe, clean space for recreational development.

Job Responsibilities

As a Recreation Aid, you will perform a variety of tasks that keep the Arts and Crafts Center running smoothly:

Facility Maintenance: Inspecting equipment for safety, ensuring the shop is clean, and performing minor repairs.
Customer Assistance: Guiding users through equipment features, explaining shop policies, and providing instructions on safety protocols.
Financial Operations: Handling cash register transactions, balancing reports, and safeguarding collected fees.
Technical Support: Assisting with shop activities such as pottery, woodworking, and custom framing. You will receive training on specialized equipment like mat cutters and frame saws.
Administrative Tasks: Inventory management, record keeping, and scheduling for custom framing projects.

Requirements

Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for this position:

Requirement	Description
Physical Ability	Lift up to 40 pounds and complete a physical exam
Experience	Proven cash handling and basic math skills
Background	Ability to clear a Tier 1 background investigation
Residency	Must meet U.S. residency/citizenship requirements

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive rate of $17.50 per hour. As this is a flexible NAF position, hours may vary between 0 and 40 per week, allowing for a adaptable schedule that supports both the agency's needs and your personal balance.

Career Progression

This role is a developmental opportunity. Upon successful completion of 6 months of service, training on shop-specific equipment, and demonstrated competence in framing and matting, you may be eligible for a non-competitive promotion to the NF-0189-II pay band.

Application Tips for Success

Tailor Your Resume: Clearly list your previous experience with cash registers and point-of-sale systems.
Documentation is Key: Ensure all eligibility documents, such as military spouse preference or veteran status records, are attached to your application package.
Check Your Status: Once you have applied, log in to your USAJobs account periodically to track your application status.

If you are ready to serve the Air Force community while working in an environment that celebrates creativity, this Recreation Aid position at the Air Force Academy is the perfect fit. Submit your application before October 23, 2026, to ensure you are considered for this rewarding role.

Why This Recreation Aid-Arts & Crafts Job Matters

Unleash your creativity and support our community at the U.S. Air Force Academy's vibrant Arts and Crafts Center.

Recreation Aid-Arts & Crafts Job Overview

The U.S. Air Force Academy is seeking a motivated Recreation Aid to join the Arts and Crafts Center team. This developmental role is perfect for someone with a passion for creative arts, basic retail operations, and community service. You will play a vital role in maintaining a safe, organized environment where patrons can explore activities like woodworking, pottery, and custom framing. This position offers a unique chance to grow within the NAF system, with a clear path to promotion based on your performance and skills acquisition.

Requirements for Recreation Aid-Arts & Crafts

Ability to solve basic arithmetical problems and handle fractions accurately.
Proven experience with cash handling procedures and point-of-sale registers.
Ability to lift and transport items weighing up to 40 pounds.
Satisfactory completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
Ability to undergo and pass a Tier 1 background investigation.
Commitment to maintaining a clean and safe work environment.
Availability to work an uncommon tour of duty as needed.
U.S. Citizenship or meeting specific residency requirements for installation access.

Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Aid-Arts & Crafts

Prior knowledge of artistic terminology and processes, including painting, pottery, and woodworking.
Experience in custom picture framing, including mat cutting and glass handling.
Demonstrated ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced retail or recreation setting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Professional development and training on specialized equipment
✓Potential for non-competitive promotion to a higher pay band after 6 months
✓Opportunity to work in a dynamic, creative environment
✓Direct deposit payroll setup

💡 How to Apply Recreation Aid-Arts & Crafts Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Recreation Aid-Arts & Crafts Job

Log in or create a USAJobs account.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Prepare and upload your professional resume detailing relevant volunteer and paid experience.
Attach required documentation, such as proof of eligibility or certifications.
Review your complete application package to ensure all responses and documents are accurate.
Submit your final package before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on October 23, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your experience with cash handling and math skills.
List all relevant professional and personal references with complete contact information.
If claiming veteran or spouse preference, provide all necessary supporting documents (e.g., DD-214, marriage certificate) to avoid disqualification.
Use the 'Preview' function in the application portal to understand the questionnaire requirements beforehand.
Double-check your application status in your dashboard after submitting to confirm receipt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a permanent position?

This is a flexible, non-appropriated fund (NAF) position with no guaranteed hours, ranging from 0-40 hours per week.

Is there room for growth?

Yes, this is a developmental role with a clear promotion path to a higher pay band (NF-0189-II) after 6 months of successful performance and training.

What background checks are required?

Applicants must successfully complete a Tier 1 background investigation and an E-Verify employment check.

What does it mean to be a NAF employee?

*A: NAF employees work in Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities and operate under specific personnel regulations for the Department of the Air Force.*

Can I apply if I don't have arts experience?

*A: While artistic experience is highly desirable, the core requirements focus on your ability to handle cash, perform basic math, and maintain a safe facility.*

Job from U.S. Air Force Academy

The Air Force Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) organization supports the morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) needs of the Air Force and Space Force community. By working at the Arts and Crafts Center, you contribute to a vital facility that allows personnel and families to develop new skills, complete custom projects, and foster a sense of community through art.