Make a Difference: Become a Swim Instructor and Lifeguard at Camp Foster
Are you a certified lifeguard looking for an opportunity to serve the military community? Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) is currently hiring for a Swim Instructor/Lifeguard position at Camp Foster, Okinawa. This is more than just a pool job; it is a vital role that ensures the safety, wellness, and recreation of Marines, sailors, and their families stationed abroad.
Job Responsibilities
As a Swim Instructor and Lifeguard, your day will be diverse and challenging. Your primary duties include:
- Safety Surveillance: Monitoring the pool area to prevent accidents, enforcing rules, and providing crowd control.
- Emergency Response: Performing water and land rescues, administering CPR/AED, and rendering first aid as needed.
- Swim Instruction: Planning and teaching swimming lessons to various age groups, ensuring proper technique and water safety.
- Facility Maintenance: Maintaining pool cleanliness, vacuuming, and testing water chemistry to meet strict safety standards.
- Customer Service: Providing a professional, friendly, and helpful experience to all patrons who use the pool facilities.
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Must be 16 years or older.
- Certifications: Must hold or be eligible to obtain recognized certifications in Lifeguard Training, CPR/AED, and First Aid within 30 days.
- Residency: Must currently reside in Okinawa or arrive via official orders within 30 days.
- Background: Ability to pass a CNACI background check.
- Physicality: Must be able to pass a swimming physical ability test and lift 45lbs.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | NF-02 |
| Salary Range | $16 - $17 per hour |
| Schedule | Flexible (FLX) |
| Primary Location | Camp Foster, Japan |
Working for MCCS offers several unique advantages over private sector aquatic roles, including stable federal service, access to base exchanges, and the chance to contribute to the mission of the U.S. military.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted through the MCCS Careers website. We do not accept paper or emailed resumes. Ensure your resume is two pages or fewer to remain eligible for consideration. Check your application status regularly via the portal after submission.
If you are a safety-minded professional who enjoys working with the public and has a passion for aquatics, we encourage you to apply. Join the MCCS team and help us provide World Class customer service to those who serve our country.
Why This Swim Instructor/Lifeguard, Nf-02/Flx, All Camps Job Matters
Make a splash in your career by joining the U.S. Marine Corps Community Services team in Okinawa as a Swim Instructor and Lifeguard!
Swim Instructor/Lifeguard, Nf-02/Flx, All Camps Job Overview
The U.S. Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) at Camp Butler, Japan, is seeking a motivated and safety-focused individual to join our aquatics team. In this role, you will play a vital part in maintaining a safe environment for Marines, their families, and the community. You will combine your professional lifeguarding skills with your passion for swimming instruction to provide world-class recreational programming. Whether you are performing vital safety surveillance or teaching essential water skills, your work will directly contribute to the quality of life for those serving our country in Okinawa.
Requirements for Swim Instructor/Lifeguard, Nf-02/Flx, All Camps
- Must be at least 16 years old.
- Must possess or be able to obtain within 30 days: Lifeguard Training, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, and Standard First Aid certifications.
- Ability to obtain Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification or equivalent.
- Physical ability to pass initial and recurrent fitness tests.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 45lbs independently.
- Must reside in Okinawa or be arriving on official government orders within 30 days.
- Must be able to pass a background check (CNACI).
- Must strictly adhere to the drug-free workplace policy.
Preferred Qualifications for Swim Instructor/Lifeguard, Nf-02/Flx, All Camps
- One year of prior experience working as a professional pool lifeguard.
- Experience as a certified swim instructor.
- Previous experience with pool maintenance and chemical handling.
- Certification as a Lifeguard Instructor.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Stability of Federal Civilian Service employment.
- ✓Work-life balance in a team-oriented environment.
- ✓Competitive hourly pay.
- ✓Access to Marine Corps Exchange and base facility privileges.
- ✓Opportunities to serve those who serve.
💡 How to Apply Swim Instructor/Lifeguard, Nf-02/Flx, All Camps Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Swim Instructor/Lifeguard, Nf-02/Flx, All Camps Job
- Review the full position requirements and ensure your resume is two pages or fewer.
- Create or log in to your MCCS Careers account.
- Complete the online application form before the closing date of November 11, 2026.
- Upload required documentation, including certifications and proof of military spouse preference if applicable.
- Monitor your application status through the MCCS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly limited to two pages; longer resumes will not be accepted.
- Ensure all contact information and certification details are current.
- If applying under military spouse preference, ensure you have your sponsor's orders ready for upload.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the 11:59 PM ET deadline is firm.
- Highlight any specific water safety instruction experience in your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age requirement for this position?
You must be at least 16 years old to apply.
Can I apply if I do not currently have lifeguard certification?
Yes, but you must be able to obtain the required certifications (Lifeguard, CPR/AED, First Aid) within 30 days of your hire date.
Is this position open to everyone?
This position is open to the public, provided you currently reside in Okinawa or are arriving on official government orders to the area within 30 days.
Job from U.S. Marine Corps
Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) is the backbone of the quality-of-life programs provided to the Marine Corps community. Our mission is to support the readiness and retention of our forces by providing exceptional services and facilities. From athletics to family programs, MCCS provides a team-oriented environment that values dedication, customer service, and professional integrity.