Become a Ski Safety Professional with the U.S. Army in Alaska
Are you an experienced skier or snowboarder looking to turn your passion into a meaningful career? The Birch Hill Ski & Snowboard Area at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, is looking for a motivated Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) to ensure the safety and well-being of our service members and their families. This role offers the unique chance to work in a high-energy, outdoor environment while providing essential emergency support services.
Job Responsibilities
As a Recreation Assistant, you are the eyes and ears of the mountain. Your daily tasks include:
- Safety Patrols: Conducting regular trail checks to open and close slopes, identify hazards, and ensure snow conditions are safe for the public.
- Emergency Response: Providing immediate care for medical or traumatic injuries occurring on the slopes, in the lodge, or on lift lines.
- Stabilization: Determining the severity of injuries and utilizing specialized mountain rescue equipment to stabilize and transport patients.
- Environmental Oversight: Continually evaluating terrain for ice, deep snow, downed trees, or equipment malfunctions.
- Rule Enforcement: Ensuring that all visitors adhere to mountain safety standards and codes of conduct.
Requirements and Qualifications
This position requires a high level of physical fitness and technical capability.
| Requirement Type | Essential Criteria |
|---|---|
| Technical Skill | Proficient snowmobile operation on steep, difficult terrain |
| Athletic Skill | Advanced-level skiing or snowboarding for rescue operations |
| Documentation | Two-page maximum resume limit |
| Communication | Strong written and verbal interpersonal skills |
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a competitive salary and the unique benefits of working with the Department of Defense.
- Salary Range: $46,670 – $52,000 per year.
- Retention Bonus: Up to $2,000 for six months of successful service.
- Wellness: Potential access to base fitness centers and recreation facilities.
- Retirement: Participation in the NAF 401(k) plan.
Application Tips
When applying for federal positions, the details matter. Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your years of experience in mountain safety or emergency response. Use professional terminology to describe your ability to operate snowmobiles and your level of skiing proficiency. Most importantly, strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit, as exceeding this may cause your application to be rejected.
Working as a Recreation Assistant at Birch Hill is more than just a job—it is a commitment to the safety of those who serve our country. If you have the advanced skiing skills and the professional drive to handle emergency situations in an arctic environment, we encourage you to apply before the December 31, 2026, closing date.
Why This Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) Nf-03 Job Matters
Combine your passion for winter sports with a vital mission—join the Birch Hill Ski & Snowboard Area as a Recreation Assistant and help ensure safety on the slopes for our military community.
Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) Nf-03 Job Overview
The U.S. Army Installation Management Command is seeking a dedicated Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) to join the team at Birch Hill Ski & Snowboard Area on Fort Wainwright, Alaska. In this role, you will play a crucial part in maintaining mountain safety, responding to medical emergencies, and ensuring all patrons enjoy a secure recreation environment. This is an excellent opportunity for skilled skiers or riders with a commitment to public safety to support the Department of Defense mission.
Requirements for Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) Nf-03
- Must be able to operate a snowmobile effectively to perform mountain patrols, rescues, and equipment transport on challenging terrain.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Must adhere to the strict two-page limit for resumes.
- Ability to obtain and maintain suitability for federal employment.
- Must be able to pass a background check for a non-sensitive position.
Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) Nf-03
- Advanced-level skiing or snowboarding proficiency required to perform rescues and transport patrons on the most difficult terrain.
- Experience in emergency medical response or similar ski patrol environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Retention incentive of up to $2,000 upon successful completion of a six-month service agreement.
- ✓Access to on-base amenities including fitness centers and libraries.
- ✓Eligibility for health, life insurance, and 401(k) retirement plans (based on position type).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.
- ✓Paid personal time off and federal holidays.
💡 How to Apply Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) Nf-03 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Recreation Assistant (Ski/Safety Patrol) Nf-03 Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, highlighting your specific ski patrol and snowmobile operation experience.
- Search for announcement number O3NAFEV-26-13070888.
- Complete the online questionnaire and upload required documentation (such as transcripts or certifications if applicable).
- Review your application for accuracy before submitting by the December 31, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to ensure it is accepted and reviewed.
- Clearly highlight your proficiency in operating snowmobiles and your advanced skiing or snowboarding abilities.
- Include contact details for professional references within your resume to expedite the process.
- Ensure your email address is up to date and your inbox is clear to receive status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required?
No, this position is classified as non-sensitive (low risk), though suitability/fitness adjudication is required.
Are there incentives for this job?
Yes, a retention incentive of up to $2,000 may be authorized for those who complete a six-month service agreement.
What happens if I cannot apply online?
You may request a paper application by contacting the NAF Human Resources representative listed in the official announcement.
Is housing provided?
This announcement does not specify the provision of housing; please contact the hiring office for specific relocation inquiries.
Can I apply if I am not a military spouse?
Yes, this position is open to the general public.
How long will my application remain active?
Once submitted, your application remains valid for 90 days for potential referral to similar vacancies.
Job from United States Army Installation Management Command
The United States Army Installation Management Command (IMAC) manages the infrastructure, programs, and services that support soldiers and families worldwide. By working with the USAG Alaska FMWR (Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation), you become a vital part of the support system that maintains morale and provides high-quality recreational opportunities at remote and active military installations.