Recreation Specialist (Deployed Forces) Job in New London, CT

Vacancy No. 12860027 Department Commander, Navy Installations
Salary $35.00 to $38.50 Grade 4 to 4
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 1/5/2026 Close Date 1/21/2026
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
New London, CT


Summary

The Deployed Forces program is responsible for ensuring that shipboard and home-ported military personnel are given the opportunity to participate in recreation programs. The purpose of this position is to assist the Deployed Forces Coordinator to implement and execute the CNIC Fleet Recreation Operation and Maintenance, Navy equipment grant program and provide formal training to shipboard recreation services personnel within the Mid-Atlantic Region.

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

The incumbent is directly responsible for the complete operation and acts as the primary liaison between the fleet and the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department. As such, supports the installation in delivering programs to the shipboard community and facilities fleet participation in activities on board the installation.

Provides technical training in area of afloat recreation programs, accounting, auditing, procurement, general administration and fund management.

Incumbent is responsible for the following areas: budgeting, general administration, recordkeeping, policy interpretation, APF and NAF procurement, planning and evaluation of programs, design of fitness spaces aboard until and supporting Library Resources Centers, financial management, administration, indoctrination briefs, cardiovascular and fitness equipment. The incumbent managers the CNIC fleet exercise and recreation equipment grant program for SUBASE New London. Incumbent, along with the Recreation Services Officers is responsible for surveying home-ported ships to determine exercise/recreation equipment needs, both short and long term. Shipboard requirements must be met within the limits of electrical services requirements, height and wight limitations, freight costs and expediency requirements, allocated funding and product availability. Equipment cost and complexity range from simple things (e.g. softball gloves) to highly technical items (e.g. electronic fitness equipment).

The incumbent develops the overall administrative policies for the program using higher instruction and policies. Works in conformance with locally developed administrative policies, plans, procedures, and techniques approved by CNIC and develops, relates and adapts these to meet the specialized needs of SUBASE for the Fleet Recreation Services Officers and Coordinators. Incumbent assists in establishing and developing internal controls and is responsible for the MWR Fleet Recreation financial management systems including budgeting execution, analysis and inventory. Ensures all transactions for receipt, safekeeping, deposit, disbursement and accountability of funds and property are performed in accordance with established policies and regulations. Provides input into the preparation of the annual expenditure budget. Assists in managing, overseeing, and executing the annual budget and submits purchase orders, vouchers, work orders and contracts as necessary. Established and maintains internal controls over the Afloat Recreation property, equipment and supplies. Maintains property management records, hand receipt files, and property location information. Reports any discrepancies to MWR Director for situational awareness. Ensure that both APF and NAF funds are expended properly and judiciously within the limits of budgetary plans. Analyzes financial statements and reports to identify adverse financial trends.

Incumbent is responsible for coordinating shipboard participation with the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Department recreation programs as well as assisting ships in the development of command sponsored activities. May also provide additional recreation programs for individual ships, squadrons, groups or ships in port.

Incumbent must assure that storage facilities and equipment are well maintained, safe, and cost effective to operate and maintain and suited to the needs of the varied programs and clientele. Conducts studies to determine the adequacy of preset equipment and facilities; develops standards, specifications and criteria for new or revised construction projects. Submits projects for consideration and approval for funding.

As a qualified course manager for the Afloat Recreation Management Course, provides required training to on-board recreation staff. Trains Fund Custodians via financial workshops in the electronic management of the recreation fund.

Incumbent must ensure compliance with MWR Safety Program as well as safety practices promulgated by federal law and Navy safety instructions and regulations established for the Deployed Forces Program and facilities. Establishes an accident prevention program to eliminate unsafe conditions and practices which may result in injury to patrons, self, equipment or property.

Incumbent is responsible for the administration of the Afloat Recreation program for the National Ship of State the USS Constitution. This duty consists of providing comprehensive information and program ideas to the command concerning recreation trends and issues; assists in the financial management of the command recreation funds along with procurement of services and supplies, provides internal reviews and assessments of the command recreation program and monitoring to insure compliance with regulations.

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.
  • 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 be able to lift 40 pounds of weight unassisted.
  • Position has been designated Non-Critical sensitive. As a position of trust and ITU position, employment is conditional on the successful competition of an Access National Agency Check (ANACI). Position requires eligibility for a secret clearance.

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:

Thorough knowledge of the wide range of principles, concepts and techniques relating to planning fitness and creation programming.

Operating military fitness, fleet recreation or recreational facilities and programs and the methods for promoting such programs.

Possess an extensive knowledge of exercise equipment suitable for shipboard use and skill in developing shipboard fitness spaces in order to provide a dynamic fitness and recreation program for the fleet.

Ability to be able to coordinate the budget for inclusion in the overall recreation budget.

Purchasing and inventory control insuring that consumables, supplies, and equipment are properly safeguarded.

Ensuring that all spaces are fully and properly programmed, utilized, maintained and when necessary, renovated or replaced.

Experience in developing new methods, approaches, and procedures to ensure that programs are kept current with patron desires and full utilization of resources are consistently realized.

Education

A four-year degree from an accredited college or university with a major study appropriate to the field of recreation administration of physical education is preferred.

OR

Specialized Experience that demonstrated the knowledge of the goals, principles, methods, and techniques of the recreation programs and on understanding of the interests of individuals or groups.

OR

A combination of experience and education.

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.

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)

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 01/21/2026 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/12860027

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
Email
CNRMANAFHR@us.navy.mil
Address
Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic - Navy NAF HRO
1682 Piersey Street Bldg KN
Norfolk, VA 23511
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.