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Federal position planning, directing, and evaluating recreation programs, activities, and facilities at military installations, VA medical centers, and federal recreation areas.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0188
Education:
OR
Experience:
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal recreation specialist position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Military jobs that transition to GS-0188
Direct experience in managing and operating recreation facilities and programs aligns closely with the GS-0188 role.
Experience in planning and organizing recruiting events translates well to recreation program planning and event organization.
Recreation and MWR experience. Highlight program management, community services, and customer service.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Ability to plan and develop recreation programs.
Skill in leading recreational activities and events.
Knowledge of recreation facility operations.
Ability to manage recreation program budgets.
Skill in supervising recreation staff and volunteers.
Ability to serve diverse recreation participants.
Knowledge of recreation safety and risk management.
Skill in adapting programs for special needs groups.
Ability to promote recreation programs and services.
Skill in evaluating program effectiveness and participation.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-0188 Recreation Specialist plans and manages recreation programs for military installations, VA facilities, and federal agencies. These professionals develop fitness programs, organize events, and provide recreational services that support morale, welfare, and quality of life.
Recreation Specialists earn between $42,679 (GS-7 Step 1) and $98,422 (GS-12 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale following two-grade intervals. Most positions are GS-9/11, earning $52,205-$82,108 annually plus locality adjustments.
GS-0188 positions require education and/or experience in recreation, physical education, or related fields. Entry-level positions accept relevant degrees or experience. Higher grades require progressively more specialized experience in program management and facility operations.
Military experience with MWR, fitness programs, or recreation operations is directly applicable. Fitness leaders, MWR specialists, and those who managed recreation facilities have transferable skills. Veterans understand the unique recreation needs of military communities.
The career ladder follows two-grade intervals (GS-7/9/11/12). Entry-level specialists support program delivery. GS-9/11 specialists manage programs and facilities. Senior positions involve directing recreation operations at major installations.
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Recreation Specialist' or '0188' series. Major employers include military MWR, VA, and National Park Service. Your federal resume should highlight program management, event coordination, and facility operations experience.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.