AQUATICS SPECIALIST-LEAD LIFEGUARD Job in Great Lakes, IL

Vacancy No. 25-12734225 Department Commander, Navy Installations
Salary $18.50 to $19.50 Grade 3 to 3
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 5/9/2025 Close Date 5/23/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Great Lakes, IL


Summary

This position is assigned to the Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) Fitness, Sports, and Deployed Forces Support Branch; Fleet Readiness; Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC); Naval Station; Great Lakes, IL. Incumbent provides lifeguard duties; is responsible for safeguarding the lives of persons at the assigned work area; assists with Aquatic training, education, and general support at the installation.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

Please see the "Who May Apply" section under the Qualifications section.

Duties

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Pool and/or Waterfront Lifeguard duties comprise 60% of incumbent's duties and include but are not limited to.
    • Performs all pool and/or waterfront lifeguard responsibilities such as supervising swimmers/patrons and their activities, monitoring all natural water activities, applying first aid, enforcing safety rules and reporting safety hazards to supervisor, and performing water rescues as necessary.
    • Observes and documents conditions of area assigned (e.g., possible hazards, water/chemical conditions, marine life, wind and weather) to ensure a safe environment, removing hazardous materials when necessary (e.g., floating debris, glass, etc.).
    • Performs rescue work, promptly renders cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or emergency first aid and calls for medical assistance as necessary.
    • Conducts and documents pool chemical testing results. Checks chlorine and pH levels on a scheduled basis; notifies Certified Pool Operator or supervisor of chemical imbalances; may adjust chemicals as directed.
    • Marks swim and surf areas with a flag system. (Waterfront only)
    • Operates rescue vehicles (e.g., PWC rescue craft, patrol boats, automobiles), as needed. (Waterfront only)
    • General (includes but not limited to):
    • Administers aquatic assessment testing and certification in accordance with Department of Defense (DoD), Department of the Navy (DON) and CNIC policy.
    • Provides introductory equipment orientations, when needed.
    • Checks identification cards for authorized patrons and collects usage fees, if applicable.
    • Serves as the primary liaison between the activity, security, medical departments, and Aquatics Program Manager during emergency situations.
    • Performs cleaning duties (e.g., basic janitorial services, vacuuming, skimming) and routine facility maintenance as assigned by Aquatics Program Manager.
    • Inspects stands, boards, ropes, safety gear and condition of the dressing rooms, ensuring they are within the condition required by environmental health standards. Informs supervisor of deficiencies
    • Uses and maintains care of emergency equipment (e.g., specialized kits and bags, backboards, suction devices, splints, stretchers, monitoring equipment).
    • Enforces applicable policies and procedures of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) regarding the use of Aquatic facilities and waterfront operations.
    • Prepares accident/incident reports during emergency situations. Notifies management of all emergencies immediately.
    • Works with hazardous materials (e.g., cleaning agents, pool chemicals).

Lead duties comprise 40% of incumbent's time and include but are not limited to.

    • Leads and directs the work of three (3) or more lifeguard crew during work shifts, ensuring duties are performed in accordance with established safety regulations and policies.
    • Schedules, coordinates and conducts in-service training of assigned lifeguards and recreational swimming instructors. Orients new lifeguards to job duties and responsibilities.
    • Monitors and tracks all the lifeguards' training requirements and certifications to ensure they are current and/or competent in all rescue techniques to include first aid and CPR.
    • Monitors lifeguard rotation schedules, issues directives, and monitors work performance. Recommends personnel actions to the Aquatics Program Manager.
    • Assists with the scheduling of lifeguards to ensure adequate coverage of pool areas are maintained during operating hours. Notifies the manager of employee absences and issues.
    • Interfaces with patrons regarding concerns, problems, or any other significant issues. Provides input and feedback while responding to problems.
    • Performs opening and closing procedures of the facility.
    • During emergency situations, assumes a leadership position and takes control of the emergency situation.
    • Teaches various swimming skills and water safety for all age groups. Prepares material for classes being taught. Ensures the safety of all patrons in the class.
    • Assists in the planning, coordination and scheduling of recurring activities, special events and community undertakings to maximize use of facilities and resources consistent with the military mission.
    • Carries out the full range of work leader responsibilities to include performing in an acting capacity in the absence of the Aquatics Program Manager.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • Starting May 7, 2025, non-affiliated individuals requesting access will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to access CNRMA Installations. (review required documents section for more information.)
  • Must have or be able to obtain and maintain the following: First Aid with Automated External Defibrillator Certification and Blood Borne Pathogens,
  • Must have or be able to obtain and maintain the following: Lifeguard Certification in accordance with CNICINST 1710.3, CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Providers or equivalent.

Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
  • Knowledge of pool and waterfront safety rules.
  • Knowledge of the beach environment, marine life, and beach and water hazard is required for waterfront lifeguard positions.
  • Knowledge of DoD, DON, CNIC, and MWR policies and procedures governing aquatic assessment testing and certifications and use of Aquatic facilities and waterfront operations.
  • Knowledge of cash handling procedures, if applicable.
  • Knowledge of and ability to conduct pool chemical testing, document the results, and adjust chemical imbalances, as directed.
  • Skill in and ability to provide training.
  • Skilled or proficient in surf lifesaving techniques and radio communications to perform a safe and efficient rescue operation.
  • Ability to appropriately identify hazards or hazardous situations and identify a patron's need for assistance immediately.
  • Ability to act decisively and immediately in any situation which could result in harm to a patron by identifying a patron in distress.
  • Ability to tactfully, but forcefully, provide instruction on water safety, facility rules and regulations, and enforce them.
  • Ability to conduct routine safety inspections of the facility and pool area to ensure they meet environmental health standards.
  • Ability to exercise control over a large group of people.
  • Ability to perform the full range of work leader responsibilities.
  • Ability to direct the work of subordinate staff and appropriately manage conflict.
  • Ability to schedule work, handle last-minute changes, and evaluate performance.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Education

This position does not have a positive education requirement.

Additional information

Salary is dependent on experience and/or education.

Some positions have special requirements. Selectee may be required to complete a one (1) year probationary period. Participation in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer within the first 30 days of employment is required. We utilize E-Verify to confirm selectee's eligibility to work in the United States.

This announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies within 60 days of issuance of selection certificate. For positions requiring travel more than twice per year, selectee may be required to obtain and maintain in good standing a government-issued Travel Card for official government travel purposes.

Executive Order 12564 requires a federal workplace free of illegal drugs. According to the Executive Order, all Federal employees are required to remain drug free throughout their employment. Commander, Navy Installations Command is a Drug-Free Federal Workplace. The use of illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and use of or intoxication by illegal drugs will result in penalties up to and including removal from Federal Service.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

All resumes will be reviewed to determine if they meet the hiring eligibility and qualification requirements listed in this announcement, and will be rated based on the information provided in the resume to determine the level of knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) related to the job requirements. Using the qualifications of the position, a predetermined rating criterion of KSAs will be used for each resume. Best qualified applicants will be referred to the hiring manager. The selecting official may choose to conduct interviews.

Required Documents

The following documents are required at the time of application:

  • Resume
  • Proof of education/training/licensure: provide a copy of your awarded/conferred college transcript(s) and licensure as applicable
  • If claiming Department of Defense (DOD) Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) Business Based Action (BBA) priority consideration: provide a copy of the notice of separation
  • If claiming Military Spouse Preference: provide a copy of the sponsor's Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders and a marriage certificate at the time of application
  • If claiming Veteran's Preference: provide a copy of your DD-214, Member-4 page and any supporting documentation (SF-15, V.A. disability letter, proof of service, etc.)
  • If a current or former Federal Employee: provide a copy of your most recent Personnel Action Report (PAR) or SF-50

NOTE: Failure to provide the required documents may impact eligibility, qualifications determination.

Starting May 7, 2025, non-affiliated individuals requesting access will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to access CNRMA Installations. This applies to everyone, including the following: but not all inclusive:

  • Vendors
  • Dependents aged 18 and older
  • Service Providers
  • Veterans with service-connected disabilities
  • Contractors
  • Visitors (includes visitors in same vehicle with CAC holder)
  • Transportation services (taxi, limo, ride share)
  • Agent, Assist, Aid, Care Giver Letters
  • Au Pairs, Child Care Providers
What are acceptable alternative forms of identification for base access? If you don't have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, you can use one of the following:
  • U.S. passport or passport card
  • Military ID card (Common Access Card or CAC, DoD retired ID card)
  • Permanent resident card (Green Card)
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Enhanced Driver's License (EDL)
  • Other forms of identification accepted by the Department of Homeland Security
How can I obtain a REAL ID-compliant license? To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, you'll need to visit your state's driver's license agency with the following documents:
  • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
  • Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card)
  • Two proofs of residency (e.g., utility bills, bank statements)

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

To be considered for this vacancy you must apply and complete the online questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section above.

The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 05/23/2025 to receive consideration.

To begin, click Apply to access the online application. You will need to be logged into your USAJOBS account to apply. If you do not have a USAJOBS account, you will need to create one before beginning the application.

To preview the Application Questionnaire, please click the following link: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12734225

It is your responsibility to ensure your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) is complete, accurate, and submitted by the closing date.

Additional information on how to complete the online application process and submit your online application may be found on the https://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/index.php?title=Applicant

To verify or check the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account. Once logged in, the Welcome screen lists your applications, your application status and the date it was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status

DON is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, genetic information, reprisal, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, or any other non-merit factor. The DON provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applicants with disabilities who believe they may require reasonable accommodation(s) should email their request to MILL_HQ_NAF_HR.FCT@navy.mil to ensure proper consideration is given.

Agency contact information

CNRMA NAF HRO
Address
NAVSTA Great Lakes
2601 E Paul Jones Street
Great Lakes, IL 60088
US

Next steps

Using the required qualifications of the position, a standardized rating and ranking criteria of knowledge, skills, and abilities will be used to screen and assess each application.

If you provided an email address, you will receive an email message acknowledging receipt of your application. Times may vary during the hiring process, as your application status updates/changes you will be notified with a notification letter via email.

Please notify us if your contact information changes after the closing date of the announcement. Also, note that if you provide an email address that is inaccurate or if your mailbox is full or blocked (e.g., Spam Blocker, etc.), you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.


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