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Recreation Specialist

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR)
Norfolk, VA Full Time
POSTED ON 4/10/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/9/2026
Summary

This NAF position is for a Recreation Specialist (Fitness Specialist) within the Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) Fitness Program, located at NSN Norfolk, Norfolk, VA. The incumbent is responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering comprehensive fitness programs by designing and leading exercise programs, providing command outreach, supporting the Navy's Physical Readiness Program, and assisting in the management of facility operations.

Duties

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Program Delivery & Instruction duties include but are not limited to:

  • Designs, leads, and evaluates individual and group exercise programs (e.g., strength, cardiovascular, flexibility, spin, aquatics, functional training).
  • Instructs patrons in the proper use of all equipment for training and self-monitored progress by preparing written instructions and procedures for the performance of work, use of equipment, safety and well-being of all involved.
  • Provides customers general fitness information, instruction on proper use of fitness equipment and program information.
  • Provides certified personal training, fitness assessments, and individualized exercise plans for active-duty personnel and other authorized patrons.
  • Delivers fitness testing to include aerobic capacity, body composition, strength, endurance, and flexibility assessments.

Facility & Operations Support duties include but are not limited to:

  • Ensures fitness spaces and equipment are safe, clean, and well-maintained. Performs minor maintenance and coordinates repair of equipment.
  • Develops written procedures, instructional guides, and safety protocols for use of equipment and fitness programming.
  • Provides on-the-floor customer service, assisting patrons with equipment use and safe exercise techniques.
  • Supports the implementation of Navy Operational Fitness and Fueling System (NOFFS), Navy Mission Nutrition, and other CNIC supported fitness and wellness initiatives.

Group Exercise duties include but are not limited to:

  • Designs, supervises, coaches, and instructs a variety of group exercise programs (e.g., Step, Spin, Water Aerobics) inside and outside of the fitness facility.
  • Provides fitness training and programming to groups of various sizes.
  • Prepares written instruction and procedures for performance of work, use of equipment, safety, and well-being of all involved.
  • Provides instruction on the proper implementation and maintenance of conditioning and training programs for aerobic fitness, muscular fitness, body composition, and flexibility training.
  • Conducts fitness testing, which includes measuring aerobic capacity, body composition, muscular strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, and blood pressure.
  • Works with various command representatives to develop and implement physical fitness programs for military personnel.

CFL/FEP Outreach duties include but are not limited to:

  • Provides certified personal training and group exercise services to active-duty military as outlined in the Navy's Physical Readiness Program instruction.
  • Assists with the instruction of the Command Fitness Leader course and fitness related general military training.
  • Conducts Command Fitness Leader (CFL) and Fitness Enhancement Program (FEP) outreach, ensuring alignment with Navy physical readiness requirements.
  • Assists with instruction of the Command Fitness Leader course and command physical training.
  • Assist patrons on the fitness floor by providing training tips to prevent unsafe or ineffective exercise techniques.

General duties include but are not limited to:

  • Assists in developing and marketing fitness programs to increase participation and customer satisfaction.
  • Maintains accurate records and prepares reports related to participation, usage, equipment maintenance, and training in Navy Fitness Directors Management System (NFDMS).
  • Trains/leads other employees in various recreation/physical fitness-related positions.
  • Prepares and analyzes functional area specific reports.
  • Stays current with latest fitness programming ideas to increase attendance and improve customer satisfaction.

Requirements

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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.
  • Must possess a primary certification from an accredited* health/fitness organization, or a certification from a commercial/industry health/fitness organization.
  • Work includes lifting up to 40 lbs. unassisted. Incumbent may lift heavier weight, but with assistance. considerable amount of standing and exercise demonstrations are required.
  • Occasional travel of less than 10% may be required.
  • 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.)
  • Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- general recreation, or one of the appropriate fields of recreation such as outdoor recreation; youth recreation; public, urban, or community recreation; or physical education.
  • In addition, group fitness instructors must possess approved certification in the specific physical activity program in which they instruct (e.g., yoga, cardio dance, etc.).
  • Incumbent must possess and maintain:
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and First Aid Certification
  • Automated External Defibrillator Certification
  • Blood-borne Pathogen Training
  • Incumbent must possess or be able to obtain Navy Basic Fitness Certification within 60 days of hire.

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:

  • Knowledge of exercise principles and health promotion sufficient to design, deliver, and evaluate safe, effective fitness programs.
  • Knowledge of the safe use and operation of fitness equipment, facility standards, facility operations, and basic fitness equipment maintenance/repair.
  • Skill in planning and carrying out an enhanced program in the recreation specialty area which meets the needs of the participating community.
  • Skill and ability to provide fitness training and programming to individuals and groups of various sizes.
  • Skill in the use of Microsoft Office Programs (e.g., Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook).
  • Ability to competently and independently carry out fitness programs through the proper application of principles, concepts and techniques of recreation to satisfy specific needs of the community to be served.
  • Ability to independently conduct fitness assessments and execute individualized exercise programs.
  • Ability to conduct accurate fitness testing and provide recommended fitness program, based on fitness goals.
  • Ability to prepare clear, concise, and technically sound reports related to work within the Branch.
  • Ability to develop and effectively deliver presentations and/or training.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing

Education

Undergraduate and Graduate Education:

Major study -- general recreation, or one of the appropriate fields of recreation such as outdoor recreation; youth recreation; public, urban, or community recreation; or physical education.

OR

Specialized experience that demonstrated the ability to apply the principles of one or more specialty areas of recreation. AND 1 full year of graduate level education

OR

superior academic achievementOR1-year specialized experience in the physical activity program or area

OR

An equivalent combination of education and experience

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.

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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.

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