Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) - Join the U.S. Army Team at Fort Carson!

Are you passionate about firearm safety and ensuring a positive experience for the public in recreational settings? The U.S. Army is seeking a motivated and safety-conscious individual to join its ranks as a Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) at the Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex, located at Fort Carson, Colorado. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the well-being and morale of military personnel and their families while enjoying a flexible work environment and competitive hourly pay. If you possess strong public interaction skills and a dedication to safety protocols, this role offers a unique and rewarding career path.

About the Agency: U.S. Army Installation Management Command

The United States Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) is dedicated to providing exceptional services and support to the Soldiers, families, and civilians who make up our Army communities worldwide. IMCOM's mission is to deliver high-quality, integrated services and support that enable readiness and resilience across the Army. At Fort Carson, known as "The Mountain Post," IMCOM's Directorate of Family and MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for the installation's residents. They offer a wide array of programs and services, including family support, childcare, youth activities, sports, fitness, entertainment, and recreation. The Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex is a key component of these offerings, providing safe and accessible recreational shooting opportunities. Working with Army Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) means you'll be part of a team that directly supports the military mission and fosters a strong sense of community.

Job Responsibilities

As a Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) at the Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex, you will be instrumental in the daily functioning and safety of the facility. Your core duties will encompass:

Range Operations: Executing established procedures for opening, closing, and operating the firing range in strict accordance with installation, local, and federal laws. You'll maintain critical communication with the installation range control agency to guarantee all operations are conducted safely.
Patron Instruction and Safety: Educating visitors on essential range safety practices and providing general information related to firearms and marksmanship. You will be the primary point of contact for all safety-related matters during operating hours.
Ammunition and Inventory Management: Ensuring the proper handling, secure storage, accountability, and inventory of ammunition. You will also be responsible for issuing ammunition and range-related accessories to customers after verifying identification and collecting applicable fees.
Customer Service and Fee Collection: Performing cashier duties, accurately maintaining records of sales, and requesting necessary restocks for supplies and inventory. You will also circulate among patrons to ensure satisfactory service and adherence to safety procedures.
Facility Oversight and Maintenance: Conducting general facility and range maintenance to ensure a clean, safe, and functional environment for all users.
Complaint Resolution: Receiving and effectively resolving customer complaints, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors.
Patron Guidance and Scheduling: Directing patrons, scheduling the use of ranges, conducting necessary safety briefings, and continuously monitoring user activities.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following qualifications:

Experience: A minimum of one year of demonstrable experience in firing range operations, which includes a strong understanding of firearm safety protocols. You must also have work experience involving direct interaction with the general public.
Certification: The ability to obtain required certifications within 60 days of your start date. This includes the current Installation Range Certification Card, National Rifle Association (NRA) Range Safety Officer Certification, or an equivalent certification acceptable to the agency.
Resume Documentation: All qualifications must be clearly described within the work experience detailed on your resume and any supporting documents submitted with your application.

Other Essential Information:

Resume Length: Resumes are limited to two pages or less. Please ensure your resume clearly outlines your relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities as they pertain to this position.
Supporting Documents: A copy of all required documents must be submitted at the time of application.
Education: There is no specific education requirement for this position.

Salary Overview

This position is compensated at the NF-02 pay grade, with an hourly wage ranging from $18.19 to $19.21. As a flexible position, hours can vary between 0 and 39 per week, with no guarantee of a specific number of hours. Sunday premium pay and night differential pay may be authorized for regularly scheduled employees, subject to the Garrison Commander's approval.

Benefits

Working for Army Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) offers a compelling benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

Flexible Schedule: Work hours can be flexible, offering a degree of work-life balance.
Meaningful Work: Contribute directly to the morale, welfare, and readiness of military communities.
Professional Development: Opportunities for training, education, and certification programs to advance your career.
On-Base Amenities: Access to facilities like fitness centers and libraries.
Insurance Options: Eligibility for health and life insurance for regular full-time and part-time employees.
Retirement Savings: Participation in 401k and retirement plans is available for regular employees, and a NAF 401(k) plan is available for eligible flexible employees.
Paid Time Off: Regular employees receive paid personal time off and observe federal holidays.

Application Steps

Applying for this exciting opportunity is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your application is submitted correctly:

Visit USAJOBS.gov: Navigate to the official USAJOBS website and search for Announcement number O2NAFEI-26-13099981.
Create/Log In to Account: If you don't have a USAJOBS account, create one. If you do, log in.
Complete Online Application: Follow the prompts to complete the online application form thoroughly and accurately.
Submit Resume and Documents: Upload your resume (ensure it's two pages or less) and any other required supporting documents. Uploaded documents may take time to clear a virus scan.
Review and Submit: Carefully review your entire application package, including your resume and questionnaire responses, before final submission.
Deadline: Ensure your complete application is submitted by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on November 5, 2026.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success, consider these helpful tips:

Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your experience in range operations, firearm safety, and customer service. Be explicit about how your past roles align with the job description.
Reference Information: Include comprehensive contact details for professional references directly on your resume to streamline the process.
Honesty in Questionnaires: Provide truthful and accurate answers to the assessment questionnaire. Ensure your resume and supporting documents corroborate your responses.
Stay Informed: Keep your contact information updated in your USAJOBS profile and check your email regularly (including spam/junk folders) for updates on your application status.
Explore Resources: Familiarize yourself with the NAF Applicant Information Kit available at https://publicfileshare.chra.army.mil/Applicants/NAF_Applicant_Information_Kit.pdf for detailed guidance.
Paper Applications: If you are unable to apply online, contact the servicing NAF Human Resources office to request a paper application. Submit completed paper applications by 3:00 PM MST on November 5, 2026.

The Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) position at Fort Carson offers a unique opportunity to serve the military community while engaging in a dynamic and responsible role. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to contribute to a safe and enjoyable recreational environment, we encourage you to apply. Join the U.S. Army team and make a difference in the lives of those who serve.

Why This Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) Nf-02 Job Matters

Join the U.S. Army's Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex team as a Recreation Assistant (Range Operations)! If you have a passion for firearm safety and enjoy public interaction, this is your chance to contribute to a vital mission. Enjoy a flexible schedule and a rewarding career supporting military families and personnel.

Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) Nf-02 Job Overview

The Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex, operated by the U.S. Army Installation Management Command, is seeking a dedicated Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) at the NF-02 pay grade. This flexible position offers the opportunity to be involved in the daily operations of a firing range, ensuring safety and providing excellent service to patrons. If you are safety-conscious, enjoy public engagement, and have experience with firearm operations, this role is an excellent fit for you. We are committed to supporting our military communities and their families through high-quality recreational programs and services.

Requirements for Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) Nf-02

Minimum of one year of experience in firing range operations, including a strong understanding of firearm safety.
Proven experience in interacting with the general public, providing excellent customer service.
Ability to obtain specific certifications within 60 days of hire, including Installation Range Certification Card, NRA Range Safety Officer Certification, or an equivalent.
Experience with cashier duties is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) Nf-02

Experience in ammunition handling, storage, and inventory management.
Familiarity with scheduling range usage and conducting safety briefings.
Demonstrated ability to resolve customer complaints effectively.
Previous experience in facility maintenance related to recreational areas.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Flexible work schedule (0-39 hours per week, hours not guaranteed).
✓Opportunity to support military communities and contribute to the Department of Defense mission.
✓Potential for professional development, training, education, and certification programs.
✓Access to on-base facilities such as fitness centers and libraries.
✓Eligibility for health and life insurance for regular full-time and part-time employees.
✓Participation in 401k and retirement plans for regular employees.
✓Paid personal time off and federal holidays for regular employees.
✓Eligibility for NAF 401(k) plan for flexible employees.
✓Potential eligibility for health insurance for some flexible employees.

💡 How to Apply Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) Nf-02 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Recreation Assistant (Range Operations) Nf-02 Job

Visit USAJOBS.gov and search for Announcement number O2NAFEI-26-13099981.
Create a USAJOBS account if you don't already have one.
Complete the online application, ensuring all sections are filled out accurately.
Upload your resume (2 pages or less) and any required supporting documents.
Review your application package thoroughly before submitting.
Submit your application by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on November 5, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates experience relevant to range operations, firearm safety, and public interaction. Adhere strictly to the two-page limit.
Include full contact information for professional and personal references on your resume to expedite the hiring process.
Carefully answer all assessment questionnaire questions, ensuring your responses are consistent with your resume and supporting documents.
Double-check all contact information in your USAJOBS profile to ensure you receive timely updates and notifications.
Be aware that uploaded documents may take time to clear the virus scan process; submit early if possible.
Review the NAF Applicant Information Kit at https://publicfileshare.chra.army.mil/Applicants/NAF_Applicant_Information_Kit.pdf for detailed guidance.
If you are unable to apply online, contact the servicing NAF Human Resources representative to request a paper application form and submit it by 3:00 PM MST on November 5, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary responsibilities of a Recreation Assistant (Range Operations)?

Responsibilities include opening and closing the range, ensuring safe operations according to laws and instructions, instructing patrons on safety, providing basic firearm information, managing ammunition and fees, conducting minor maintenance, and addressing customer concerns.

What are the minimum qualifications for this position?

You need experience with firing range operations, firearm safety, and dealing with the public. You must also be able to obtain required certifications (Installation Range Certification, NRA RSO, or equivalent) within 60 days of starting.

Is this a full-time or part-time position?

This is a FLEX position, meaning hours can range from 0 to 39 per week. Hours are not guaranteed.

What is the pay range for this position?

The hourly rate ranges from $18.19 to $19.21.

Do I need to submit specific documents with my application?

Yes, a resume is required. You may also submit other documents like a Cover Letter, DD-214, or certifications to support your qualifications or claimed preferences.

How long will my application remain valid?

Your application may be considered for new vacancies for up to 90 days after you apply.