Launch Your Lifeguard Career with the Army MWR in Hawaii
Are you a certified lifeguard looking to combine your passion for water safety with a rewarding career? The Department of the Army is currently seeking a Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) to join the team at the prestigious Pililaau Army Recreation Center (PARC) in Waianae, Hawaii. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve those who serve our country by ensuring a safe and pristine environment at one of Oahu's most beautiful waterfront locations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Recreation Assistant, your primary duty is the safety and protection of all facility guests. You will operate under the direction of the Installation Program Manager and the head lifeguard. Key responsibilities include:
- Surveillance: Actively monitoring waterfront activities to prevent accidents.
- Emergency Response: Responding immediately to medical emergencies, performing rescues, and administering first aid.
- Communication: Clearly informing patrons of safety rules and managing conduct issues with tact and professionalism.
- Training Assistance: Supporting aquatic swimming and water survival training programs.
- Facility Maintenance: Maintaining lifeguard towers, checking equipment for hazards, and keeping meticulous records of daily logs.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must demonstrate that you meet the following baseline requirements:
- Mandatory Certifications: Waterfront Lifeguard, CPR/AED, Oxygen Administration, and First Aid.
- First Responder Potential: Must be able to obtain a First Responder certification within six months of hire.
- Experience: While not mandatory, experience in ocean rescue is highly preferred.
- Documentation: A resume that is exactly two pages or less and clearly reflects your relevant skills.
Comparison of Potential Certifications
| Certification Type | Required for Hire | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Waterfront Lifeguard | Yes | Must have current |
| CPR/AED | Yes | Must have current |
| First Responder | No | Within 6 months |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $19.19. As a regular NAF (Non-Appropriated Funds) employee, you are eligible for a robust benefits package, which includes:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Access to retirement savings via a 401(k) plan.
- Accrual of paid personal time off and federal holidays.
- Professional development programs to help advance your career.
Application Tips
- Follow the Page Limit: The two-page rule is strict. If your resume is longer, it may not be reviewed.
- Submit as PDF: Using a PDF format ensures that your formatting stays exactly as you intended when it reaches the hiring manager.
- Include References: Add full contact details for your professional references directly into your resume document to expedite the vetting process.
Working as a lifeguard at the Pililaau Army Recreation Center offers a rare blend of professional responsibility and the incredible lifestyle that only Hawaii can offer. If you are a certified, safety-conscious professional, we encourage you to submit your application by the November 11, 2026, deadline. Take the next step in your career and help us maintain the highest safety standards for America’s military family.
Why This Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Nf-02 Job Matters
Protect our service members and their families in paradise—join the team as a Lifeguard at the Pililaau Army Recreation Center in beautiful Waianae, Hawaii.
Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Nf-02 Job Overview
The Department of the Army is seeking a dedicated Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) for the Pililaau Army Recreation Center (PARC) in Waianae, Hawaii. This role is vital to maintaining a safe, professional, and enjoyable environment for military personnel and their families. You will serve as a key member of the aquatic safety team, overseeing waterfront operations, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and providing emergency response when needed.
Requirements for Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Nf-02
- Must possess valid Waterfront Lifeguard Certification.
- Must possess valid CPR/AED Certification.
- Must possess valid Oxygen Administration Certification.
- Must possess valid First Aid Certification.
- Ability to obtain a First Responder certification within six months of hire.
- Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and grammatically in English.
- Ability to use sound judgment and meet established task timeframes.
- Strict adherence to a two-page maximum limit for all submitted resumes.
Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Nf-02
- Demonstrated professional experience in ocean rescue and waterfront operations.
- Strong interpersonal skills for interacting with facility guests and enforcing safety rules.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Access to on-base amenities including fitness centers and libraries.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance for eligible full-time and part-time employees.
- ✓Participation in 401(k) retirement plans.
- ✓Paid personal leave and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training certifications.
- ✓Stable career growth within the Department of the Army MWR programs.
💡 How to Apply Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Nf-02 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Recreation Assistant (Lifeguard) Nf-02 Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Ensure your resume highlights relevant certifications and waterfront experience.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline of November 11, 2026.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including certifications and any applicable preference forms.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Include contact information for professional references within your two-page resume.
- Carefully review and answer all questionnaire items to avoid being rated as ineligible.
- Submit early to ensure all documents clear the mandatory virus scan process.
- Ensure your certification copies are clear and legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary location for this position?
This role is based at the Pililaau Army Recreation Center (PARC) in Waianae, on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.
Is there a specific page limit for my resume?
Yes, federal regulations for this position mandate a strict limit of two pages. Resumes exceeding this length may not be considered.
What certifications are required at the time of application?
Applicants must hold current Waterfront Lifeguard, CPR/AED, Oxygen Administration, and First Aid certifications.
Do I need a military background to apply?
*A: No. This position is open to the public.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, PCS costs are not authorized for this position.*
Can I apply if I don't have all the certifications yet?
*A: You must possess the core waterfront, CPR, AED, and first aid certifications at the time of application to be qualified.*
Job from United States Army Installation Management Command
The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) operates under the mission of creating "First Choice" MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) services. By joining the MWR team, you become an essential part of the Total Army force, supporting the health, happiness, and recreation of military personnel and their families. This organization values professional growth and offers a unique, supportive environment where your contributions directly enhance the quality of life for our community.