Launch Your Career as a Child Development Specialist with the U.S. Air Force
Are you a dedicated educator looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking motivated individuals to serve as Child Development Specialists. This role is essential for supporting the families who make our national security mission possible. If you are passionate about early childhood education and thrive in a structured, professional environment, this could be the perfect next step for your career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Child Development Specialist, your daily contributions will be diverse and highly rewarding. Your primary duties include:
- Program Development: Assisting in the administration and evaluation of age-appropriate educational activities.
- Curriculum Support: Working with specialists to design lesson plans for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.
- Staff Training: Providing training and resources to Child Development Program Assistants and support staff.
- Operations Management: Coordinating with custodial and food service staff to maintain high center standards.
Requirements
To qualify for this position at the GS-07 level, candidates must meet specific academic or experience-based criteria:
| Requirement Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree or 1 year of graduate study in Education/Child Development |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-05 |
| Skills | Must demonstrate strong analytical, instructional, and communication skills |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $50,460 to $87,061 per year, depending on the specific geographic location and pay scale applicable to the installation.
Benefits
Federal employment comes with a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:
- Robust Health Insurance options
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual
- Federal retirement pension eligibility
Application Tips
- Mind the Resume Limit: Resumes must be strictly two pages or less.
- Documentation is Key: Always include transcripts and, if applicable, military service documentation (DD-214).
- Detail Your Experience: Be precise about your hours per week for each job entry.
Serving as a Child Development Specialist with the Air Force is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the families who serve our nation. With competitive pay, excellent benefits, and a noble mission, this is a career path that offers both personal and professional fulfillment.
Why This Child Development Specialist Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on military families by shaping the educational journeys of children in Air Force communities nationwide.
Child Development Specialist Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking dedicated Child Development Specialists to join our team at various installations across the United States. In this role, you will play a vital part in developing, administering, and evaluating early childhood educational programs. You will work closely with leadership and curriculum specialists to ensure our centers provide a nurturing, age-appropriate environment for children ranging from 6 weeks to 12 years of age.
Requirements for Child Development Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Completion of a 4-year degree in education or a closely related field, OR a combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 grade level.
- Must meet Federal Time-in-Grade requirements if currently a federal employee.
- Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12-31-59.
Preferred Qualifications for Child Development Specialist
- Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development.
- Demonstrated Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) in undergraduate studies.
- Proven track record in curriculum development and instructional planning.
- Experience in administrative office procedures within an educational setting.
- Graduate-level education in a relevant field.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal government health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Stable career paths within the Department of Defense
💡 How to Apply Child Development Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Child Development Specialist Job
- Create or log in to your account at the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your hours worked per week and exact employment dates.
- Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including official or unofficial transcripts and DD-214 (if applicable).
- Submit your final application before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; exceeding this limit will result in disqualification.
- Explicitly state the hours worked per week for every position listed on your resume.
- Ensure your transcripts are clear and show your GPA or class standing if you are using education to qualify.
- Review your application responses against your uploaded documents to ensure consistency.
- Verify that your application has been received successfully through your user portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What locations are currently hiring?
This is a nationwide recruitment notice covering various Air Force installations including bases in California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, North Dakota, Ohio, and Oklahoma.
Can I apply if I don't have a degree in early childhood education?
Yes, provided you have a degree in a relevant field or a combination of education and specialized experience that demonstrates comparable knowledge.
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, this position is classified as non-sensitive and does not require a security clearance.
Is this position remote?
No, this role requires on-site presence at specific military installations.
How often will this notice be updated?
This is an open continuous announcement, so you should monitor your application status via the USAJOBS portal.
Job from Air Force Materiel Command
The Air Force Materiel Command is committed to the highest standards of excellence. Our mission to fly, fight, and win relies on our ability to develop Airmen and their families. By providing world-class child development programs, we ensure that our military members can focus on their vital duties, knowing their children are in a safe, educational, and nurturing environment.