Launch Your Career in Child Development at RAF Lakenheath
Are you looking to make a meaningful impact on the lives of military families? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking dedicated, compassionate individuals to serve as Child and Youth Program Assistants (CYPA) at RAF Lakenheath. This role is perfect for those passionate about early childhood development and youth engagement. Whether you are an experienced educator or just beginning your career, this position offers the chance to work in a collaborative environment with competitive pay and excellent perks.
Job Responsibilities
As a CYPA, your primary responsibility is the safety and well-being of the children in your care. Duties vary by experience level:
- Entry Level: Perform simple, routine tasks under direct supervision and assist with planned activities.
- Intermediate Level: Assist in planning and coordinating daily schedules and maintaining age-appropriate activity plans.
- Target Level: Independently conduct activities for youth aged 6 weeks to 18 years, create engaging environments, and mentor junior staff.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum age of 18.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to provide documentation proving legal residency/status in the UK.
- Fluency in English (oral and written).
- Must possess a U.S. Social Security Number.
Salary Overview
Pay is determined by your qualification level at the time of hire:
| Position Level | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | $18.70 |
| Intermediate Level | $20.31 |
| Target Level | $21.53 |
Benefits
Employees enjoy significant advantages, including a 100% childcare fee discount for their first child and 37% for additional children. Furthermore, you will work in an environment that prioritizes professional training and development, ensuring you stay at the forefront of child education practices.
Application Tips
- Detail Everything: Include all volunteer and paid childcare experience on your resume.
- Stay Organized: Ensure your diploma and relevant credentials are ready for upload.
- Monitor Status: Check your USAJobs portal regularly for updates on your application.
Working as a Child and Youth Program Assistant is more than a job—it is a way to serve those who serve us. If you are ready to start a rewarding journey, ensure your application is submitted before the July 26, 2026, deadline.
Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on military families by shaping the future of children and youth at RAF Lakenheath—apply today to join our mission-driven Child and Youth Programs team.
Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking dedicated professionals to serve as Child and Youth Program Assistants at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom. This flexible role focuses on the supervision and development of children and youth, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. Whether you are starting your career in childcare or are an experienced educator, we offer positions at various levels of responsibility, all contributing to the vital support services provided to military families overseas.
Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant
- Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
- High school diploma or equivalent is mandatory.
- Proof of eligibility to work in the UK (non-ordinarily resident status required).
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
- Must possess a U.S.-issued Social Security Number.
- Successful completion of background and suitability requirements.
- Must be able to provide documentation proving residency status in the UK.
Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant
- Experience in childcare, youth programs, or educational settings.
- Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Military School Age credential.
- Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Youth Development, or related fields.
- Completion of DoD or Air Force approved competency training modules.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓100% childcare fee discount for the first child enrolled in a full-time or regular part-time DAF CDP.
- ✓37% childcare discount for subsequent children.
- ✓Competitive hourly pay based on experience and education level.
- ✓Access to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities.
- ✓Professional development and standardized training programs.
💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJobs account.
- Ensure your resume includes detailed volunteer and paid experience.
- Gather proof of education (diplomas/transcripts) and citizenship/residency documentation.
- Click the apply button to launch the online application process.
- Complete the required assessment questionnaire accurately.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents (DD-214, credentials, etc.) before the closing date.
- Submit your application and monitor your status in your USAJobs portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly highlights childcare experience, even if it was volunteer-based.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and clearly labeled.
- Be sure to sanitize sensitive personal information from documents where required, while keeping identifying details intact.
- Apply early; applications are reviewed and referred every 10 days until the announcement closes.
- Review your responses to the online questionnaire against your resume to ensure consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ordinarily resident' mean?
It generally refers to someone who has resided in the UK for more than 366 days without a specific affiliation to the US Visiting Forces. Time spent as a US agency employee or dependent typically does not count toward this status.
Is this a full-time position?
This is a flexible position ranging from 0-40 hours per week, depending on the needs of the facility.
Can British citizens apply?
British citizens are generally not eligible for US NAF positions but may be eligible for local national positions on base.
Job from U.S. Air Forces, Europe
The U.S. Air Forces in Europe support the mission of protecting American interests through readiness and community support. By operating high-quality Child Development Centers, the Air Force provides essential services that allow military personnel to focus on their vital national security duties, knowing their children are in a safe, professional, and nurturing environment.