Launch Your Career in Child Development at Eielson Air Force Base

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and youth? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking dedicated individuals to fill the role of Child and Youth Program Assistant at the 354th Force Support Squadron, located at Eielson AFB in Alaska. This is a unique opportunity to support military families while building a rewarding career in a dynamic, supportive environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Assistant, your duties will vary based on whether you are filling a Target or Leader level position, but your primary focus remains the same: the safety and development of our youth. Responsibilities include:

Supervision: Maintaining accountability for children during indoor and outdoor activities.
Engagement: Planning, leading, and facilitating activities that meet the physical, social, and cognitive needs of children aged 6 weeks to 18 years.
Collaboration: Working with parents and staff to ensure individual needs—including special requirements—are met.
Administration: Maintaining facility safety, inventorying supplies, and ensuring compliance with Air Force standards and national accreditation metrics.

Comparison: Target vs. Leader Levels

Feature	Target Level	Leader Level
Experience Required	18 months	24 months
Key Responsibility	Support and Care	Team Supervision & Operations
Mentorship	Program Assistant role	Model behaviors/train subordinates
Certification	Required for advancement	Advanced certification required

Requirements & Qualifications

To qualify for this position, you must be at least 18 years of age and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Depending on the level you are applying for, you will need a specific combination of experience and education (such as a Child Development Associate credential or an associate/bachelor's degree in a related field).

Salary & Benefits

Competitive compensation is a cornerstone of this role, with pay ranging from $24.60 to $33.72 per hour. Additionally, the position features:

Recruitment Incentive: Up to $2,000 for qualified candidates.
Childcare Discounts: Significant fee reductions for staff members with children enrolled in DAF childcare centers.
Location Perks: Live in the heart of Alaska, famous for the Midnight Sun and the Aurora Borealis.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Clearly document your childcare experience, including any volunteer work through organizations like AmeriCorps or the Peace Corps.
Verify Documents: Keep your diplomas, transcripts, and any professional certifications ready to upload as they are mandatory for eligibility.
Check Status: Use the USAJobs portal to track your application after submission to ensure your package is complete.

Working as a Child and Youth Program Assistant at Eielson AFB is more than a job—it is a chance to give back to the military community. With excellent benefits, competitive pay, and the beauty of Alaska at your doorstep, this role offers a great path for personal and professional growth. Apply now to be part of our mission-driven team!

Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant (Target - Leader Level) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on military families and help shape the future at Eielson Air Force Base! We are hiring Child and Youth Program Assistants to join our dynamic team in Alaska.

Child And Youth Program Assistant (Target - Leader Level) Job Overview

The 354th Force Support Squadron at Eielson AFB is seeking dedicated professionals to serve as Child and Youth Program Assistants. In this role, you will be responsible for the safety, supervision, and development of children and youth ranging from 6 weeks to 18 years. Whether you are working at the Target or Leader level, you will play a vital role in fostering a welcoming environment, planning engaging activities, and supporting the resilient families of our Warfighters. This position offers an excellent opportunity to work in a collaborative environment with potential for growth and a recruitment incentive bonus of up to $2,000.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Target - Leader Level)

Must be 18 years of age or older.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
Must successfully complete employment verification (E-Verify).
Must be able to provide proof of education/qualifications as specified.
Target Level: Minimum 18 months of relevant childcare/youth program experience or specified credentialing/degree combinations.
Leader Level: Minimum 24 months of childcare/youth program experience plus required certifications or degrees.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Target - Leader Level)

Possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
Military School Age Credential.
Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
Experience in youth program administration or recreation.
Previous experience working in a team leadership or supervisory capacity.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Recruitment incentive bonus up to $2,000 (subject to 12-month service agreement).
✓Comprehensive Child Care Fee Discount (100% for the first child; 37% for additional children).
✓Supportive team-oriented work environment.
✓Opportunities for professional development and competency training.
✓Access to base recreational facilities and programs.

💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant (Target - Leader Level) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Target - Leader Level) Job

Create or log into your USAJobs account.
Review the full job announcement carefully to determine your eligibility.
Prepare your resume, ensuring it highlights all relevant paid and volunteer experience.
Complete the online questionnaire through the provided application link.
Upload all required documentation, including diplomas, transcripts, and proof of certifications.
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 16, 2026.
Monitor your status through the USAJobs dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes clear contact information and detailed descriptions of your past experience.
Don't forget to attach all supporting documents, such as transcripts or licenses, before clicking submit.
Sanitize sensitive personal information from documents if they belong to someone other than yourself.
Double-check your responses on the online questionnaire to ensure they align with your resume.
Apply early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Program Assistant?

You will be responsible for the safety, supervision, and development of children during daily activities, field trips, and special events, while also assisting in the creation of age-appropriate programs.

Is education substitution allowed for the experience requirement?

Yes, this position allows for the substitution of qualifying education for experience, provided the coursework is directly related to early childhood or youth development.

What kind of discount do staff receive for childcare?

Staff members receive a 100% discount on childcare fees for their first child enrolled in a full-time DAF Child Development Center, and a 37% discount for any additional children.

Job from Pacific Air Forces

The 354th Force Support Squadron (FSS) is a critical component of the Pacific Air Forces. FSS provides essential services that enhance the quality of life for Airmen, civilians, and their families. From educational programs to recreational activities, the team at Eielson is committed to fostering resilience and excellence within the community. When you join the FSS, you aren't just taking a job—you are joining a team that values your contribution to the mission.