Lead Recreation Assistant (Pool/Waterfront Lifeguard) - Aquatics Job in Honolulu, HI

Vacancy No. 26272 Department Commander, Navy Installations
Salary $22.19 to $24.00 Grade 3 to 3
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 11/25/2025 Close Date 12/9/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Honolulu, HI


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); at Navy Region, HI; Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) or Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF). The 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

The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Clarification from the agency

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

Duties

II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Pool and/or Waterfront Lifeguard duties comprise 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 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.
  • Interviews and recommends selection of all lifeguard positions to the Aquatics Program Manager or Fitness Program Director, as needed.
  • 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.
  • Inventories and recognizes when supplies or equipment needs to be ordered and communicates the needs to the Aquatics Program Manager.
  • Interfaces with patrons regarding concerns, problems, or any other significant issues. Provides input and feedback while responding to problems.
  • Ensures the aquatics programs are occurring as scheduled and assists with the overall management of swimming events.
  • Monitors the functions of the aquatics activities and provides input to the Aquatics Program Manager.
  • Carries out the full range of work leader responsibilities to include performing in an acting capacity in the absence of the Aquatics Program Manager.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Schedules use of lanes and aquatic spaces for patron use.
  • During emergency situations, assumes a leadership position and takes control of the emergency situation.
  • Performs opening and closing procedures of the facility.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

  • Must pass all applicable records and background check.
  • Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. Any discrepancies must be resolved as a condition of employment.

Qualifications

Resumes must include information which demonstrates experience and knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) as they relate to this position. Applicants are encouraged to be clear and specific when describing their experience level and KSAs.

A qualified candidate must possess:

III. FACTORS

1. 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.
2. SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
Works under direct supervision of the Aquatics Program Manager. Incumbent uses initiative in completing daily/routine assignments and receives general guidance and supervision from Aquatics Program Manager. Work is reviewed in terms of results achieved and through occasional quality checks and inspections.

3. GUIDELINES
Guidelines consist of Navy Fitness, Sports & Aquatics Support program standards, departmental policies, regulations and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and augmented regulations and procedures issued at local level. Generally accepted procedures found in the fitness industry and adopted by reputable aquatics organizations used.

4. COMPLEXITY
Work consists of continually evaluating the overall safety and effectiveness of the operation, ensuring the safety of all patrons at all times. The incumbent may be responsible for a number of patrons or groups of patrons simultaneously, and must constantly assess possible risk situations, ensure the area is free of preventable hazards, and differentiate between patrons loud and physical play versus a call for assistance.

5. SCOPE AND EFFECT
Work involves performance of specific routine operations that include few tasks or procedures, but can have a significant impact on the well-being of patrons and staff. Duties performed contribute directly to the military community's readiness, physical fitness, morale, and quality of life. The incumbent promotes physical fitness and healthful living, which will have a positive influence in improving the morale, physical and mental wellbeing of all customers.

6. PERSONAL CONTACTS
Contacts are primarily with facility patrons, recreation co-workers, and other local activity staff. Occasional contacts may include security, police, vendors, Command Fitness Leaders, etc.

7. PURPOSE OF CONTACTS
The purpose of contacts is to plan, implement, and administer Aquatics programs; motivate participants; arrange staff assistance; resolve problems; enforce policies and procedures; provide customer service; increase participation; and promote quality of life programs.

8. PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Work includes extended hours of sitting and standing and requires prolonged hours in the pool during swim lessons or other activities. Work involves frequent lifting or pulling of pool equipment, cleaning supplies, and program participants. Applicant must be able to maintain physical ability to complete the swim and rescue skill portion of their respective certifying agency. The incumbent must be able to lift and carry objects up to 50lbs independently and objects over 50lbs with assistance is required, while performing normal duties in the area. May perform work that poses physical demands beyond normal requirements during rescue.

9. WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in indoor or outdoor aquatics facilities. Indoor aquatics facilities are subjected to high humidity. Outdoor aquatics/waterfront facilities are subjected to variable weather conditions.

10. OTHER FACTORS
Must be able to work varied work schedules to include holidays, weekends, and evenings.

Must be able to work with hazardous materials (e.g., cleaning agents, pool chemicals, etc.).

Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license.

Must be able to pass an initial and recurrent physical agility test.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a National Agency Check with Written Inquires (NACI), upon hiring and renew every 5 years and/or a Child Care National Agency Check with Inquires when there is regular contact with children under the age of 18.

Six months of experience as a lifeguard is preferred.

Lead Lifeguard Pool:
Must possess and maintain the following certifications:
  • Lifeguard Certification in accordance with CNICINST 1710.3;
  • CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Providers or equivalent;
  • First Aid to include Automated External Defibrillator Certification; and
  • Blood Borne Pathogens.
The following certifications are preferred, in addition to the required certifications above:
  • Lifeguard Instructor Certification; and
  • Water Safety Instructor certification in accordance with CNICINST 1710.3; and
  • Certified Pool Operator.
Lead Lifeguard Waterfront:
Must possess and maintain the following certifications:
  • International Life Saving Federation or Red Cross Waterfront;
  • CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Emergency Response through the American Red Cross or equivalent; and
  • Blood Borne Pathogens.
Ability to complete an ocean run swim run event (1/4 mile run, 500-meter swim, 1/4 mile run).

Ability to complete a 500-meter swim in less than 10 min in a controlled environment.

The following certification is preferred, in addition to the required certifications above:
  • American Red Cross Small Craft Safety Training.

Education

This position does not have a positive education requirement.

Additional information

Salary is dependent on experience and/or education.

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.

Some positions have special requirements. Selection may be tentative pending the completion of these requirements. Applicants may be required to submit proof of education, participate in medical screening, drug testing, etc. All selections are contingent upon satisfactory employment reference checks. Employment is subject to successful National Agency Background Check. Occupants of this position must maintain the privacy of official work information and data and demonstrate the highest level of ethical conduct.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

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.

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 12/09/2025 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/12837769

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

Navy Region Hawaii NAF HRO
Phone
(808) 422-3784
Email
CNRH_NAFHR@US.NAVY.MIL
Address
Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam
620 Main Street
Honolulu, HI 96818
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.