Are you exploring federal employment options but seeking something distinct from traditional Civil Service? Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) employment with the Air Force offers a unique career path, primarily fueled by the revenue generated from vital service activities like clubs, restaurants, and recreational facilities. While sharing similarities with Civil Service, NAF employment operates under its own set of personnel policies, presenting a different avenue for federal service. Kirtland Air Force Base is a key location for these opportunities, and you can explore current openings through USAjobs.gov. However, for those looking to build a long-term career within Air Force Services, the Afnaf Services Career Program stands out as a structured and rewarding path.
What is the AFNAF Services Career Program?
The Air Force Nonappropriated Fund (AFNAF) Services Career Program is specifically designed to cultivate a skilled civilian workforce within Air Force service sectors. This program focuses on three key groups: current career executives in covered positions, the general workforce eligible for these roles, and Management Trainees in entry-level development positions. Chartered by the Services Policy Council, the Career Program’s core mission is to identify, develop, employ, and retain talented individuals who can meet the evolving needs of the Air Force. This council, composed of civilian experts from both NAF and Appropriated Fund (APF) functions, along with civilian personnel advisors, sets the strategic direction and management policies for the program, as detailed in Air Force Civilian Career Program Management guidelines (AFMAN 36-606, Volume I).
The Services Policy Council also convenes specialized panels as needed to refine specific aspects of the Career Program, such as training initiatives, placement strategies, and promotion evaluation patterns. The daily operations and administration of the AFNAF Services Career Program are managed by the dedicated NAF Career Program team. This team ensures that all activities align with the policies established by the Services Policy Council and adhere to relevant legal and regulatory frameworks. Crucially, they serve as a vital resource, providing career program guidance to registered individuals and offering comprehensive information about program operations to both functional departments and Human Resources professionals.
Career Paths within the AFNAF Services Program
The NAF Career Program offers centralized management for key leadership and specialist positions at the NF-IV level and above. These roles are essential to the smooth functioning and high standards of Air Force services worldwide. Examples of key career paths managed within this program include:
- Club Management: Positions such as Club Managers and Assistant Club Managers, vital for social and community hubs on Air Force bases.
- Restaurant & Hospitality Management: Roles like Name Brand Restaurant Managers ensure high-quality dining experiences.
- Recreation & Leisure Services: Including Golf Course Managers, Assistant Golf Course Managers, Golf Course Superintendents, and Bowling Center Managers and their assistants, which are crucial for the well-being and morale of Air Force personnel and their families.
- Lodging Management: Lodging Managers and Assistant Lodging Managers oversee accommodation services, ensuring comfortable stays for personnel and visitors.
- Specialist Roles: Opportunities at the Air Force Services Agency (AFSVA) and Major Commands (MAJCOM) as specialists in areas like Bowling, Golf, Lodging, Business Operations, and Human Resources.
These diverse career paths demonstrate the breadth of opportunities available within the AFNAF Services Career Program. It’s a program designed not just for a job, but for a progressive and fulfilling career within the Air Force community.
Is the AFNAF Services Career Program Right for You?
If you are seeking a federal career that offers variety, responsibility, and the chance to directly contribute to the Air Force community, the AFNAF Services Career Program is worth exploring. It provides a structured framework for professional growth, development opportunities, and the chance to manage and lead key service functions. For those interested in roles within hospitality, recreation management, business operations, or human resources within a federal setting, this program offers a compelling career trajectory. We encourage you to investigate current opportunities and consider how the AFNAF Services Career Program can be the starting point for a rewarding and impactful career journey. To explore current NAF job openings, remember to visit USAjobs.gov and search for positions at locations like Kirtland Air Force Base and beyond.
