Recreation Specialist
Federal position planning, directing, and evaluating recreation programs, activities, and facilities at military installations, VA medical centers, and federal recreation areas.
💰GS-0188 Salary Information
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.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0188
Recreation Specialist Series Requirements
Education:
- GS-5: Bachelor's degree in recreation, physical education, leisure studies, or related field
- GS-7: 1 full year of graduate-level education OR bachelor's with Superior Academic Achievement
- GS-9: Master's degree or 2 full years of progressively higher graduate education
OR
Experience:
- GS-5: 3 years of progressively responsible general experience in recreation
- GS-7 and above: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for GS-0188
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal recreation specialist position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your 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).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0188
Services Specialist
Direct experience in managing and operating recreation facilities and programs aligns closely with the GS-0188 role.
Navy Musician
Federal recreation and MWR programs run concerts, festivals, and cultural events. Music-program staff frequently sit under the Recreation Specialist umbrella.
Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Specialist
4133s map directly to GS-0188 Recreation Specialist. MCCS recreation programming, events, and facility management translate without friction into the federal recreation series.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Plan recreation programs
- •Organize activities and events
- •Supervise recreation staff
- •Manage facilities
- •Develop program budgets
- •Promote programs
- •Evaluate program effectiveness
- •Ensure safety compliance
- •Train staff
- •Coordinate with community
🎯Key Competencies
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.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0188
What is a Recreation Specialist?
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.
How much does a Recreation Specialist make?
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.
What are the requirements for GS-0188 positions?
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.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0188?
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.
What is the career progression for Recreation Specialist?
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.
How do I apply for GS-0188 jobs on USAJOBS?
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.
Ready to Apply for GS-0188?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.