Launch Your Career in Child Development with Army CYS at Fort Detrick

Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for education with the chance to support military families? The United States Army Installation Management Command is currently accepting applications for Child and Youth Program Assistants at Fort Detrick, Maryland. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to join a community dedicated to the social, emotional, and academic growth of children.

Job Responsibilities

As a program assistant, your primary goal is to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment. Key duties include:

Supervision: Ensuring the safety and whereabouts of children during all activities, including indoor play, outdoor excursions, and field trips.
Curriculum Implementation: Assisting in the delivery of planned activities that align with established curriculum standards.
Caregiving: Identifying and addressing the physical and emotional needs of children, including meal service and illness management.
Emergency Preparedness: Responding effectively to emergency situations, including evacuations and medical incidents.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Must be at least 18 years of age.
A high school diploma or GED is the minimum education requirement.
Effective communication skills in English.
Ability to pass a suitability/fitness assessment.

Qualifications Comparison Table

Level	Experience Required	Education/Training Required
Entry Level	None	High School Diploma/GED
Skill Level	6+ months	DoW Training or 6 College Credits
Target Level	12+ months	CDA/MSA Credential or 12 College Credits

Salary and Benefits

This position is part of a competitive pay-banded system with hourly rates ranging from $18.70 to $32.36. Regular full-time and part-time employees are entitled to a robust benefits package, including:

Health and life insurance enrollment.
401(k) and retirement plan options.
Paid personal leave and federal holidays.
Substantial childcare fee discounts (100% for the first child, 25% for subsequent children).

Application Tips

To stand out, ensure your application is complete and error-free.

Limit your resume: Federal guidelines require resumes to be two pages or less. Use this space to highlight your experience with children.
Upload early: Do not wait until the final hour, as system traffic can be heavy.
Double-check requirements: Always verify that you have attached your HS diploma or college transcripts; failure to include these will result in an ineligible rating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I work at different facilities? A: Yes, this announcement is used to fill vacancies across various CYS programs and age groups.

Q: Is relocation assistance offered? A: No, PCS costs are not authorized for this position.

Q: Can I apply if I am not currently working for the government? A: Yes, this position is open to the public.

If you are ready to make a positive impact, apply today. The application period is open until September 23, 2026. Join the Army CYS team at Fort Detrick and help us build a brighter future for the children of those who serve our country.

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

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of military families at Fort Detrick—join our dedicated Child and Youth Services team and turn your passion for child development into a rewarding federal career.

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

The U.S. Army Installation Management Command is seeking dedicated Child and Youth Program Assistants to provide essential care and developmental support to children and youth ranging from 6 weeks to 18 years of age. Based at Fort Detrick, Maryland, this role is critical in fostering a safe, educational, and enriching environment. Whether you are starting your career in early childhood education or bringing years of specialized expertise, this position offers a pathway to professional growth within a supportive, community-oriented federal agency.

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

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
Relevant experience in group programs for children/youth (required for higher skill levels).
Must provide proof of education/certifications at the time of application.
Must be able to successfully pass a background check/suitability assessment.

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

Completion of standardized DoW training courses.
Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
College coursework (semester hours) in early childhood education, elementary/secondary education, special education, or related behavioral sciences.
Demonstrated experience in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay
✓Significant childcare fee discounts for CYS employees
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance for eligible employees
✓401(k) retirement plan participation
✓Paid personal time off and federal holidays
✓Professional development and on-the-job training opportunities
✓Access to on-base amenities like fitness centers and libraries

💡 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

Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Gather and upload required documentation, including high school diploma/GED, college transcripts, or professional certifications.
Complete the online questionnaire as prompted by the application system.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 23, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume to two pages or less; longer resumes may be disqualified.
Save and upload your documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
Be honest in your questionnaire; the agency will verify your experience against your resume.
If claiming a hiring preference (such as Military Spouse Preference), ensure all required supporting documents are included.
Check your email and USAJOBS dashboard regularly for status updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age range of children in this program?

The program serves children and youth from 6 weeks old up to 18 years of age.

Are there benefits available for this position?

Yes, regular full-time and part-time positions are eligible for health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Additionally, all CYS employees receive childcare fee discounts.

How do I prove my education requirements?

You must upload a copy of your HS diploma, GED, or college transcripts showing relevant coursework at the time of your application.

Job from United States Army Installation Management Command

Child and Youth Services (CYS) provides high-quality support programs for children of military and civilian personnel. By joining this team, you become a vital part of the Department of Defense mission, helping to foster resiliency and development in children ranging from infants to teenagers. The agency is known for its supportive atmosphere, professional development paths, and commitment to investing in its employees.