Recreation Assistant - Make a Difference with Navy MWR in Mayport, Florida!

Are you passionate about enhancing the quality of life for our nation's service members and their families? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where you can organize engaging activities and provide top-notch customer service? The Commander, Navy Installations Command is seeking a motivated and energetic Recreation Assistant to join the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) team at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a vital mission, gain valuable experience, and be part of a supportive community. Open to the public, this position offers a competitive hourly wage and a chance to make a tangible impact.

About the Agency: Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC)

The mission of Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) within CNIC is to provide world-class programs that support Fleet, Fighter, and Family Readiness, ultimately improving the quality of life for Navy personnel and their families. CNIC operates through regional commands, ensuring the delivery of essential services across Navy installations worldwide. Fleet and Family Readiness encompasses a broad range of programs, including Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), Child and Youth Programs (CYP), Fleet and Family Support Programs, and housing services. Their guiding principles emphasize straight talk, valuing people, encouraging innovation, good stewardship, and mission integrity. By focusing on excellence in program delivery and operational effectiveness, CNIC's FFR division ensures that Sailors and their families have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

Job Responsibilities: A Day in the Life of a Recreation Assistant

As a Recreation Assistant within the MWR Community Recreation/Outdoor Adventures program, your role is crucial in bringing joy and engagement to the Mayport naval community. You will be the friendly face and helpful hand for patrons, assisting with a wide array of activities and services. Your responsibilities will include:

• Direct Patron Support: Providing exceptional customer service, offering information about program offerings, and assisting patrons with inquiries.
• Facility Operations: Checking patron eligibility for facility and resource use, opening and closing recreation facilities, and maintaining a welcoming environment.
• Sales and Transactions: Operating Point of Sale (POS) systems to collect fees for tickets, retail items, rentals, classes, and trips. You'll be responsible for the accuracy of daily sales and completing required reports.
• Equipment Management: Checking equipment and resources in and out, collecting rental fees, conducting inventories, and performing inspections upon return. Promptly reporting any damage or loss is essential.
• Program Assistance: Supporting the administration of various recreational programs, workshops, and special events. This includes data collection, event after-action reports, and patron feedback.
• Marketing and Outreach: Actively promoting MWR facilities and events through on-base outreach opportunities and assisting with marketing efforts.
• Partnership Development: Collaborating with both on-base and off-base organizations to enhance MWR program offerings and community engagement.
• Administrative Tasks: Performing various administrative duties, including record-keeping, data entry, and utilizing computer software for program management.
• Event Support: Assisting with the setup and breakdown of MWR programs and special events.
• Promoting Digital Resources: Encouraging the use of online MWR Library Program resources, such as e-reading materials.

This role requires a proactive approach, a keen eye for detail, and a genuine desire to serve the military community.

Requirements: What You Need to Succeed

To be considered for this exciting role, applicants must demonstrate the following qualifications through their resume and application responses:

• Experience: A combination of experience in customer service and/or recreation activity-based functions is essential. This includes organizing, planning, and administering special events and entertainment activities.
• Core Competencies: The ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge Base: Understanding of the goals, principles, techniques, and procedures used in organizing, planning, and conducting leisure-time activities. Knowledge of the Navy MWR mission and the full scope of Community Recreation activities is highly valued.
• Operational Familiarity: Awareness of the functions, procedures, and operations of recreation activities.
• Customer Focus: Strong customer service skills are paramount.
• Administrative Skills: Ability to maintain records, compile data for reports, and perform research on recreation topics.
• Instruction Following: Proficiency in following oral and written instructions.
• Technical Skills: Knowledge of computers, office procedures, and print production.

Key Requirements & Conditions of Employment:

• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered or exempt from the Selective Service System.
• The selected candidate must be deemed suitable for federal employment.
• A probationary period may be required.
• Participation in the direct deposit pay program is mandatory.
• A Social Security Card is required.
• Satisfactory completion of an E-VERIFY check is necessary.
• As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant document (or passport) will be required to access Government Facilities.
• A favorable background investigation is a requirement for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

While not strictly required, applicants who possess the following will have a stronger application:

• Successful completion of two years of study at an accredited college or university, with at least 12 semester hours in courses related to recreation (e.g., basic psychology, group dynamics, physical education, arts and crafts). Transcripts must be provided for verification.

Salary Overview

This Recreation Assistant position offers a competitive hourly wage, ranging from $18.00 to $20.00 per hour. The final salary will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Benefits

Working with the Navy's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation program comes with a robust benefits package designed to support your well-being and career. While specific details may vary, benefits typically include:

• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans. Options for spouse and dependent life insurance are also available.
• Financial Security: Long-term disability insurance, a retirement plan, and a 401(k) savings plan to help secure your future.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid annual and sick leave, allowing you to recharge and attend to personal needs.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for tuition reimbursement to support your continued education and career growth.
• Federal Service Perks: The stability associated with Federal Civilian Service and the satisfaction of working in a mission-driven organization that values its employees.

For more detailed information on NAF benefits, you can visit NAF Health Plans.

Application Process & Tips

Applying for this position is done exclusively through USAJOBS. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Create/Log In: Visit USAJOBS.gov and create a new account or log in to your existing one.
2. Apply Online: Click the 'Apply Online' button on the vacancy announcement.
3. Complete Questionnaire: Accurately answer all questions in the occupational questionnaire.
4. Submit Resume: Upload a detailed resume that clearly supports and validates your answers to the questionnaire. Ensure it meets federal resume guidelines (max 2 pages, specific font and margins). List all relevant experience, including volunteer work, with clear dates and responsibilities.
5. Upload Documents: Submit all required supporting documents, such as transcripts (if applicable), DD-214 (if claiming veteran's preference), etc. Documents with a red asterisk are mandatory.
6. Review and Submit: Double-check your entire application package for completeness and accuracy before submitting by the deadline: November 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Crucial Application Tips:

• Specificity is Key: Clearly articulate your experience and skills in your resume. Vague descriptions may lead to a lower rating.
• Federal Resume Standards: If you are new to federal applications, review the USAJOBS guide on writing a federal resume. Ensure you include pay plan, series, and grade for previous government roles.
• Proofread: Errors or omissions can impact your eligibility. Proofread everything before submitting.
• Check Status: You can monitor your application status by logging into your USAJOBS account.
• Stay Informed: All communication will be via email. Ensure your email address is accurate and check it regularly, including your spam folder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the salary range for this position?	The hourly wage ranges from $18.00 to $20.00, depending on your qualifications and experience.
What are the main duties of a Recreation Assistant?	You will provide customer service, manage recreation equipment and facilities, handle sales transactions, assist with event planning and execution, and promote MWR programs.
Is a college degree required?	No, a degree is not strictly required. However, two years of college study (12+ semester hours in recreation-related fields) can substitute for experience. Transcripts must be provided if claiming this qualification.
What is the application deadline?	The deadline to submit your complete application package is November 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
How can I check the status of my application?	Log in to your USAJOBS account. Your application status will be listed on the welcome screen.
What if I need a reasonable accommodation?	Applicants with disabilities who may require reasonable accommodations should email their request to [email protected] for proper consideration.
Is this a remote or telework position?	No, this position is located in Mayport, Florida, and is not eligible for telework or remote work.

This Recreation Assistant position with Navy MWR at Naval Station Mayport offers a rewarding opportunity to support military families and contribute to a vibrant community. If you possess strong customer service skills, a passion for recreation, and the ability to manage diverse tasks, we encourage you to apply. Take the first step towards an impactful career by submitting your application through USAJOBS by the November 5, 2026 deadline. Join the CNIC team and help make a difference!