Launch Your Career: Child and Youth Program Assistant in Oak Harbor

Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for education with a meaningful mission? The Department of the Navy is currently seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistants at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Oak Harbor, Washington.

Job Responsibilities

As a CYP Assistant, your primary role is to create a positive, safe, and developmentally appropriate environment for children. Your daily tasks will include:

Curriculum Development: Creating and implementing activity plans that meet the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of participants.
Supervision: Ensuring the safety and whereabouts of children during all indoor and outdoor activities.
Communication: Maintaining professional relationships with parents, sharing updates on child progress, and working collaboratively with your team.
Compliance: Adhering to all DoD and local installation policies regarding safety, health, and child guidance.

Requirements

Candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to pass comprehensive background checks (including fingerprinting and state criminal history).
Effective communication skills in English.

Position Level	Education Requirement	Experience Requirement
Entry	HS Diploma/GED	None required
Intermediate	HS Diploma/GED	6 months in child/youth setting
Target	HS Diploma/GED + Cert/Degree	1 year in child/youth setting

Salary and Benefits

This position offers competitive hourly compensation ranging from $21.13 to $33.33 per hour. Beyond the paycheck, the Department of the Navy offers a robust benefits package:

Childcare Perks: 100% discount on the first child's tuition and 25% off additional children.
Paid Time Off: 13 days of leave to start.
Insurance: Comprehensive health and retirement savings options.
Professional Growth: Paid training and support for industry-recognized certifications.

Application Tips

To ensure your application stands out, remember to keep your resume concise—the system enforces a two-page limit. Be specific about your experience with children, detailing your ability to handle classroom environments and engage with youth effectively. Ensure your transcripts are clear and show all required information, including degree type and major.

Joining the Navy Child and Youth Programs team is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve those who serve our country. If you are ready to make a positive impact in the lives of military children, apply today to start your career journey at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on military families while building a fulfilling career in early childhood education at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Overview

Join the Navy Child and Youth Programs (CYP) team at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. As a Child and Youth Program Assistant, you will provide essential care, guidance, and educational support to children of military personnel. This role is perfect for those passionate about youth development, offering a supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and competitive benefits, including significant childcare fee discounts.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Ability to clear mandatory background checks, including fingerprinting and criminal history repository checks.
Ability to pass the Installation Records Check (IRC).
Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
Willingness to participate in ongoing Department of the Navy training requirements.
Ability to obtain and maintain all required child care program certifications.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant

Six months to one year of professional experience working with children or youth.
Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
Associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
Completion of Department of Defense (DoD) standardized training courses.
Demonstrated ability to implement developmentally appropriate curriculum.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly wages
✓Significant childcare fee discounts for employees
✓Paid time off starting at 13 days
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Retirement savings programs
✓Professional development and industry certification support
✓Varied work schedule options

💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant Job

Log in or register for a USAJOBS account.
Review the full job announcement and prepare a resume (maximum two-page limit).
Gather proof of education (HS diploma, GED, or college transcripts).
Complete the mandatory online application questionnaire.
Submit your application and all required supporting documents by the September 30, 2026 deadline.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and strictly within the two-page limit.
Clearly highlight your experience working with children, including specific settings and age groups.
Ensure all educational documents, such as transcripts or diplomas, clearly show your name and the institution's name.
Use the application preview link to review the questionnaire before beginning your official submission.
Verify your email address in your USAJOBS profile to ensure you receive status updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What level of experience is required for this position?

The position has entry, intermediate, and target levels. Entry-level roles require a high school diploma, while intermediate and target roles require six months to one year of experience, respectively, plus specific educational credentials or certifications.

Are childcare discounts available for employees?

Yes, eligible employees receive a 100% discount for their first child and a 25% discount for additional children enrolled in Navy CYP programs.

Is a background check required?

Yes, all candidates must undergo extensive background checks, including criminal history, fingerprinting, and an Installation Records Check, as this is a position involving child care.

How do I know which level I qualify for?

Hiring managers review your resume and experience against the requirements for each grade. You will be referred based on the highest level for which you qualify.

What documents must I submit?

You must provide a resume, proof of education (HS diploma or transcripts), and any relevant veteran or spouse preference documentation.

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is dedicated to supporting the well-being of military families worldwide. By providing high-quality child care and youth development programs, we ensure that service members can focus on their vital responsibilities, knowing their children are in safe, engaging, and nurturing environments.