Becoming a Child and Youth Program Assistant at the Defense Logistics Agency

Working with youth in a military community is more than a job—it is a vital mission that directly supports national security. The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is searching for passionate, compassionate, and skilled individuals to step into the role of Child and Youth Program Assistant (CY-01/02) at the New Cumberland Defense Logistics Center in Pennsylvania.

By taking on this role, you become a cornerstone of daily stability for military and civilian defense personnel. Knowing that their children are learning and playing in safe, structured environments allows our federal workforce to focus on protecting the nation. If you enjoy sparking curiosity in young minds, guiding teenagers, and enjoying premier federal career stability, this pathway is designed for you.

About the Agency: The Defense Logistics Agency & CYS

The Defense Logistics Agency serves as the Department of Defense's logistics combat support agency, operating worldwide to supply the military services with critical resources. In support of this massive mission, the Child & Youth Services (CYS) division provides dependable, high-quality childhood development and recreation programs. CYS centers operate under rigorous standards to deliver outstanding, age-appropriate developmental care, serving families with children ranging from infant care up to adolescent programs.

CYS emphasizes continuing professional training, ensuring that team members have clear pathways to grow from entry-level facilitators into program directors. Choosing a career with CYS means joining a network dedicated to high educational standards, modern facilities, and supportive community environments.

Job Responsibilities

As a Child and Youth Program Assistant, your day-to-day duties are designed to keep children safe, happy, and intellectually engaged. Key expectations include:

Providing Developmental Care: Assisting with educational lessons, structured activities, and recreational play for children ages 6 weeks to 18 years.
Active Supervision: Maintaining constant awareness of all children under your charge, ensuring safety inside classrooms, on playgrounds, during field trips, and during special events.
Curriculum Support: Collaborating with lead educators to deploy prepared curricula, manage daily schedules, and arrange age-appropriate learning resources.
Nutrition and Health: Preparing and serving nutritious snacks and meals, monitoring dietary restrictions, and keeping clean, sanitary spaces.
Emergency Response: Recognizing physical, emotional, or emergency requirements quickly and responding according to established federal safety guidelines.

Requirements & Qualifications

The position is split across three progressive levels: Entry, Skill, and Target. This structure allows motivated workers to increase their pay as they gain experience and formal training. Below is a detailed breakdown of the credentials required for each step:

Qualifications Comparison Table

Pay Level	Minimum Age & Language	Educational Foundation	Required Experience	Specialized Credentials
Entry Level (CY-01)	18+ Years; Fluent English	High School Diploma or GED	None required	None
Skill Level (CY-01)	18+ Years; Fluent English	High School Diploma or GED	6 Months of group youth work experience	Completed Entry DoD modules OR 6 relevant college semester hours
Target Level (CY-02)	18+ Years; Fluent English	High School Diploma or GED	12 Months of group youth work experience	Completed Skill DoD modules OR CDA/MSA Credential OR 12 relevant college semester hours

Note: Qualifying college course hours must be in fields like early childhood, elementary, or special education, child development, human development, or developmental psychology.

Salary Overview

This position is graded within the Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) pay-band system, offering competitive hourly compensation:

Hourly Range: $18.70 to $25.69 per hour, dependent on the qualification level at entry.
Hours: Regular Part-Time with a guaranteed minimum workweek of 20 hours.
Additional Compensation: Sunday premium pay and night differential adjustments may be authorized by the Garrison Commander depending on operational needs.
Exclusions: Relocation expenses (PCS costs) and overseas/COLA allowances are not authorized for this hiring initiative.

Benefits & Perks

One of the most competitive reasons to join the NAF Child & Youth Services division is the outstanding benefit catalog. Unlike typical private sector daycare roles, federal employment brings premium stability:

Incredible Childcare Discount: CYS employees working at least 15 hours per week receive a 100% discount on fees for their first child enrolled in CYS programs, a 50% discount for the second child, and a 15% discount for any subsequent children.
Retirement Plans: Access to both a NAF Retirement Pension and a 401(k) retirement plan with agency matching contributions.
Educational Growth: Eligibility for the Tuition Assistance program to support your ongoing coursework in child development, along with qualifying for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
Base Privileges: Full access to on-base amenities, including the Commissary (tax-free grocery shopping), the military exchange store network, fitness centers, and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities.
Leave and Health Plans: Access to group medical, dental, and life insurance plans, 11 paid federal holidays per year, paid annual/sick leave, and 12 administrative weeks of Paid Parental Leave.

Application Tips

To ensure your application transitions past the automated HR filters, follow these proven strategies:

Respect the Page Limit: The hiring portal enforces a strict limit on resumes. Your resume must be two pages or less. Save your resume in a PDF format before uploading to prevent layout errors.
Provide Clear Educational Proof: You must upload a copy of your high school diploma, GED certificate, or college transcripts. If you are claiming qualifications for Skill or Target levels, include transcripts or certificates immediately.
Address the Keywords: Integrate key skills, such as developmental care, safety monitoring, and curriculum implementation, into your resume descriptions to match the position's primary duties.
Include References: Including reference names and direct contact details at the end of your resume can shave weeks off your hiring timeline.

What is the maximum size for uploaded documents?

Your resume and supporting documents must be 5 Megabytes (MB) or less. Keep files compressed and use PDF formats to maintain file security.

Is this position open to the public?

Yes, this position is open to all qualified US citizens. Special preference options are also available for military spouses and veterans.

Can my application remain active for other vacancies?

Yes. This is an open continuous announcement. Once submitted, your application remains active for 90 days and can be reviewed as new positions emerge at the facility.

Working as a Child and Youth Program Assistant at the New Cumberland Defense Logistics Center represents a fantastic pathway to security, advancement, and community service. With competitive hourly wages, a comprehensive retirement and health package, and life-changing childcare benefits, this position offers an ideal opportunity to establish a rewarding career with the Department of Defense. Take the first step today by preparing your application documents and securing your spot in this critical military community program.

Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant Cy-01/02 Job Matters

Transform lives and build a rewarding federal career at the New Cumberland Defense Logistics Center, featuring a 100% childcare discount and premium Department of Defense benefits!

Child And Youth Program Assistant Cy-01/02 Job Overview

The Defense Logistics Agency is actively seeking caring, energetic, and dedicated professionals to fill the role of Child and Youth Program Assistant (CY-01/02) in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania. Operating within the Child & Youth Services (CYS) division, this position offers regular part-time employment with a guaranteed minimum of 20 hours per week and eligibility for a robust federal benefits package. Assistants are responsible for fostering safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environments for youth ranging from 6 weeks to 18 years of age.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant Cy-01/02

Must be 18 years of age or older.
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
Demonstrate strong English communication skills, both written and spoken.
Submit a resume limited strictly to two (2) pages or less.
Reside within the local commuting area (approximately a 50-mile radius of New Cumberland, PA).
Undergo a thorough background check and suitability/fitness adjudication.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant Cy-01/02

Prior structured experience supervising children or youth in group settings.
Possession of a current Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) Credential.
College coursework in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, or related behavioral sciences.
Successful completion of standardized Department of Defense Child and Youth training modules.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Substantial Employee Childcare Discounts (100% off first child, 50% off second child, 15% off subsequent children).
✓Access to Student Loan Repayment or Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
✓Comprehensive Health, Life, and Vision/Dental Insurance plans.
✓NAF Pension plan paired with a 401(k) matching program.
✓11 Paid Federal Holidays annually.
✓12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave (PPL).
✓Paid Time Off (Annual and Sick Leave accruals).
✓Tuition Assistance Program for continuing academic endeavors.
✓Full access to the base Commissary, military exchange retail stores, and MWR recreation programs.

💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant Cy-01/02 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant Cy-01/02 Job

Prepare your resume, making sure it details relevant experience and does not exceed the mandatory two-page limit.
Gather your educational documentation, such as high school diplomas, college transcripts, or childcare credentials.
Log into your USAJobs account and search for Announcement # C2SCNAFCY-26-12944029.
Click 'Apply' to transition to the USA Staffing application manager.
Complete the online questionnaire accurately and upload your formatted documents.
Review your submission details and submit your package prior to the December 31, 2026 deadline.

💡 General Tips

Limit your resume to exactly two pages or less. Portals will reject longer formats, and formatting may shift unless saved as a PDF.
Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) described in the qualifications section.
Include contact details (name, email, and phone number) for your professional references directly inside your package to expedite the background phase.
Submit official or unofficial transcripts if you wish to be qualified above the entry-level grade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the schedule for this position?

This position is a Regular Part-Time role that guarantees a minimum of 20 hours per week, making the employee eligible for federal benefits.

How does the employee childcare discount work?

All CYS employees working at least 15 hours a week receive a 100% discount on childcare fees for their first child, a 50% discount for the second child, and a 15% discount for any subsequent children.

Can I qualify for a higher pay level right away?

Yes. While entry-level applicants need only a high school diploma, candidates with prior experience, relevant college coursework, or child development certifications (such as a CDA) may start at the Skill (CY-01) or Target (CY-02) pay rates.

Do I need to live in New Cumberland to apply?

Applicants must reside within the local commuting area, which is considered a 50-mile radius from the New Cumberland Defense Logistics Center.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this recruitment action.

Do I need a college degree to apply?

No. The minimum entry requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent. CYS will provide paid, standardized training on the job to help you earn promotion eligibility.