Loading...
Loading...
Federal position providing support for recreation programs and activities including equipment management, facility maintenance, and program assistance at military installations and federal facilities.
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-0189
Individual Occupational Requirements for GS-0189:
Specialized Experience (GS-4 and above): Qualifying experience includes roles such as:
Education and Training Requirements:
Experience and Education Requirements by Grade Level (Group Standard):
| Grade | General Experience | Specialized Experience | Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1 | None | None | None |
| GS-2 | 3 months | None | High school diploma or equivalent |
| GS-3 | 6 months | None | 1 year above high school |
| GS-4 | 6 months | 6 months | 2 years above high school |
| GS-5 | None | 1 year at GS-4 level | 4-year bachelor's degree |
| GS-6+ | None | 1 year at next lower grade | Graduate education if directly related |
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal recreation aid and assistant 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-0189
Air Force Services specialists directly manage and support recreational activities, making them ideal candidates for recreation aid roles.
MWR Specialists are directly involved in planning and executing recreational programs, aligning perfectly with the GS-0189 series.
Army Firefighters are trained in safety procedures, equipment management, and facility maintenance, which aligns well with recreation support roles.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Ability to assist with recreational activities and programs.
Skill in serving recreation participants professionally.
Ability to set up and maintain recreation equipment.
Knowledge of recreation safety procedures.
Skill in maintaining recreation facilities and areas.
Ability to lead basic recreational activities.
Skill in explaining rules and procedures to participants.
Ability to assist with facility scheduling and reservations.
Skill in maintaining recreation supply inventories.
Basic knowledge of first aid procedures.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Grade information not available
A GS-0189 Recreation Aid provides support for recreation programs at federal facilities. These paraprofessionals assist with activities, maintain equipment, and help visitors at military MWR, VA recreation therapy, and National Park Service programs.
Recreation Aids earn between $25,142 (GS-2 Step 1) and $44,786 (GS-5 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most positions are GS-3/4/5, earning $27,434-$44,786 annually. Many positions are part-time or seasonal.
Entry-level positions require general experience demonstrating ability to work with people and equipment. No specific degree is required. Higher grades require progressively more recreation program support experience.
Military experience with MWR, outdoor recreation, or fitness programs provides relevant background. Those who worked in recreation support, equipment issue, or activity centers have directly applicable experience.
Recreation Aids progress from GS-2/3 (entry) through GS-4/5 (senior). Many advance to GS-0188 Recreation Specialist positions with additional experience or education. The aid track provides foundation for recreation careers.
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Recreation Aid' or '0189' series. Military MWR, VA, and NPS hire recreation aids. These entry-level positions are good starting points for federal careers. Highlight customer service and activity experience.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.