Understanding the landscape of federal employment can sometimes be complex, especially when differentiating between Civil Service and Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) employment. While both fall under the umbrella of federal careers, a key distinction lies in their funding sources. Civil Service positions are supported by congressional appropriations, whereas NAF positions, like those within the Air Force Nonappropriated Fund (AFNAF) Services, are primarily funded through revenue generated from various service activities. These activities encompass a wide range of operations, including clubs, restaurants, bowling centers, outdoor recreation facilities, and more, all contributing to the vibrant community life within Air Force bases.
Although NAF and Civil Service employment operate under distinct personnel policies and procedures, they share the common goal of serving the federal community. For individuals seeking a fulfilling career within the Air Force, understanding the AFNAF Services Career Program is crucial. This program is specifically designed to cultivate a skilled civilian workforce to manage and operate these essential service functions.
The Kirtland Human Resources Office serves as the central point of contact for all Non-appropriated Fund job opportunities at Kirtland Air Force Base. To explore current openings and discover the diverse range of positions available, interested candidates are encouraged to visit USAjobs.gov. This platform provides a comprehensive listing of NAF positions within Kirtland AFB and across other Air Force installations.
Delving into the Air Force Nonappropriated Fund (AFNAF) Services Career Program
The Air Force Nonappropriated Fund (AFNAF) Services Career Program is a structured framework focused on the development and management of civilian professionals within Air Force service sectors. This comprehensive program addresses three key segments of the civilian workforce:
- Career Executive Force: This segment includes individuals currently holding positions covered under the Career Program, representing the leadership and management core of AFNAF services.
- General Workforce: This encompasses individuals eligible for consideration and referral to Career Program positions, forming the pipeline for future leadership and specialized roles.
- Management Trainee Program: Designed for entry-level professionals, this program provides developmental positions managed directly by the Career Program, nurturing talent from the ground up.
The AFNAF Services Career Program is chartered by the Services Policy Council, a governing body composed of both NAF and Appropriated Fund (APF) functional experts, as well as civilian personnel advisors. This council sets the management policy and strategic direction for the Career Program, ensuring alignment with Air Force objectives. Referenced in Air Force Manual 36-606, Volume I, the program’s framework emphasizes the identification, development, employment, and retention of skilled individuals. These professionals are vital to meeting the evolving needs of the Air Force and its community, both now and in the future.
To ensure the program remains dynamic and responsive, the Services Policy Council convenes panels as needed. These panels contribute to the refinement of critical program aspects such as training and development initiatives, placement strategies, and the Promotion Evaluation Pattern (PEP), ensuring a robust and fair career progression system.
The day-to-day administration of the AFNAF Services Career Program is entrusted to the NAF Career Program team. This team operates under the policies established by the Services Policy Council and in accordance with relevant legal and regulatory guidelines. A key function of this team is to provide expert career program advice to program registrants, alongside disseminating essential information about program operations to functional and Human Resources communities. This ensures transparency and accessibility for all stakeholders.
Positions Centrally Managed by the NAF Career Program
The NAF Career Program provides centralized management for key leadership and specialist positions at the NF-IV level and above. These critical roles are essential to the successful operation of Air Force services and offer significant career progression opportunities:
- Club Managers
- Assistant Club Managers
- Name Brand Restaurant Managers
- Golf Course Managers
- Assistant Golf Course Managers
- Golf Course Superintendents
- Bowling Center Managers
- Assistant Bowling Center Managers
- Lodging Managers
- Assistant Lodging Managers
- Air Force Services Agency (AFSVA) and Major Commands (MAJCOM) Specialists in areas such as:
- Bowling
- Golf
- Lodging
- Business Operations
- Human Resources (HR)
These positions represent a diverse and rewarding range of career paths within the Air Force Nonappropriated Fund system, offering individuals the chance to contribute to the Air Force community while building a stable and progressive federal career.
