Launch Your Career at Karing Kennels: Operations Assistant Opportunity
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for animal welfare? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a dedicated individual to fill the role of Operations Assistant at Karing Kennels on Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. This unique position allows you to serve the military community while ensuring the highest quality of care for pets in the Pacific.
Job Responsibilities
The Operations Assistant supports the kennel manager in all aspects of daily facility operations. You will be responsible for:
- Operational Oversight: Assisting in inspections to ensure compliance with American Boarding Kennel Association and public health standards.
- Customer Engagement: Managing boarding agreements, processing pet adoption paperwork, and assisting owners claiming lost pets.
- Financial Administration: Handling sales transactions, refunds, and daily cash deposits.
- Inventory Control: Maintaining adequate pet supplies and managing retail inventory for the facility.
- Staff Guidance: Providing training and direction to junior recreation staff.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | US Citizen or Legal US Resident (NATO member) |
| Status | Must hold valid SOFA sponsorship |
| Experience | Progressive business, kennel, or retail management experience |
| Background Check | Must pass a Tier 1 Investigation |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $16.55. Employees also become part of the extensive NAF network, which provides opportunities for growth within Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly demonstrate your experience in cash handling and facility management.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure all SOFA proof and identity documents are scanned and uploaded correctly. An incomplete package will not be reviewed.
- Follow Deadlines: Applications must be received by November 2, 2026. Do not wait until the last minute, as document virus scanning can take time.
If you meet the requirements and are ready to support the Karing Kennels mission in Okinawa, we encourage you to submit your application package through the official USAJobs portal today.
Why This Operations Assistant Job Matters
Combine your passion for animals with a rewarding career at Karing Kennels on Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan.
Operations Assistant Job Overview
Join the Pacific Air Forces team as an Operations Assistant at Karing Kennels. This Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position is vital to the daily operations of the facility, ensuring the highest standards of pet care, facility sanitation, and administrative excellence for the Kadena Air Base community.
Requirements for Operations Assistant
- Must possess SOFA sponsorship for residency in Okinawa, Japan.
- Must be a US Citizen or a legal US resident (NATO country citizen with a valid Social Security Number).
- Must demonstrate progressive experience in business, kennel, or retail operations.
- Must have experience in cash handling, sales, and funds safeguarding.
- Ability to provide work direction and guidance to junior staff.
- Must be able to pass a Tier 1 Background Investigation.
- Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including availability before or after weather events (typhoons).
Preferred Qualifications for Operations Assistant
- Prior professional experience with pet boarding, adoption services, or animal control.
- Proficiency with the RecTrac system.
- Technical competency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel).
- Familiarity with American Boarding Kennel Association accreditation standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Access to Air Force Services (NAF) employee benefits programs.
- ✓Potential eligibility for Post Allowance for regular full-time appointments.
- ✓Contribution to vital Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities.
- ✓Supportive professional environment within the Department of the Air Force.
💡 How to Apply Operations Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Operations Assistant Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare your resume detailing all relevant paid and unpaid experience.
- Gather required documentation, including proof of SOFA status, PCS orders, and certifications.
- Log into your USAJobs account and complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline on November 2, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJobs dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties listed in the announcement.
- Double-check that all required documents (especially SOFA proof) are attached; missing items lead to automatic disqualification.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information from supplemental documents before submission if necessary.
- Highlight any volunteer or community service related to animal care or business operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a NAF position?
A Non-Appropriated Fund position is one funded by the revenue generated by the military base's MWR activities, such as Karing Kennels, rather than by Congressional appropriation.
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is open to US citizens and legal US residents who hold SOFA sponsorship in Okinawa, Japan. Applicants must meet specific residency and citizenship requirements.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized for this position.*
Can I substitute education for experience?
*A: No, this specific position requires relevant work experience and does not allow for education substitution.*
Job from Pacific Air Forces
The Air Force Services Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) division provides vital quality-of-life programs to service members and their families. Kadena Air Base, known as the 'Keystone of the Pacific,' serves as a critical hub for airpower. By joining the Karing Kennels team, you contribute directly to the morale and welfare of the community by providing reliable boarding, adoption, and stray animal services.