Launch Your Career: Child and Youth Program Assistant with the U.S. Navy

Are you looking for a career that combines professional growth with the rewarding experience of helping families? The Navy Child and Youth Programs (CYP) are currently hiring motivated, compassionate individuals to serve as Child and Youth Program Assistants at the Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach. This role is more than just a job; it is a vital service that supports military readiness by providing high-quality, reliable care for the children of those who serve our country.

Job Responsibilities

As a CYP Assistant, your primary objective is to create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment. Your daily tasks will be diverse and engaging:

Curriculum Implementation: Developing and leading activities that foster cognitive and social development.
Supervision: Ensuring the safety and whereabouts of children during indoor and outdoor activities.
Collaboration: Working effectively with teammates, parents, and base personnel to ensure a consistent support network for every child.
Assessment: Observing and documenting developmental milestones and participating in national accreditation processes.
Safety & Compliance: Maintaining a clean and secure environment that meets all DoD health and safety standards.

Qualifications

To ensure our programs meet the highest standards, candidates must meet specific requirements based on their entry level:

Level	Experience Required	Education Required
Entry Level	None required	High School Diploma/GED
Intermediate	6 months in child care	High School Diploma/GED + Navy Training
Target Level	1 year in child care	CDA/MSA Credential or 2-year Degree

Salary Overview & Benefits

Starting pay for this position ranges from $19.08 to $22.09 per hour. Beyond the paycheck, the Navy offers a robust benefits package that sets it apart from many private-sector childcare roles:

Childcare Discounts: A 50% discount on childcare fees for your own children.
Insurance & Savings: Access to health insurance and retirement plans.
Growth: Paid training, support for industry certifications, and clear paths for internal advancement.
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, beginning at 13 days annually.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position requires attention to detail. Remember that your resume is the primary tool used to determine your eligibility. Keep it concise—limited to two pages—and emphasize your experiences related to youth development. Be sure to have your educational transcripts or proof of graduation ready, as these are mandatory components of your application package. Finally, ensure your contact information is accurate and that your email account is configured to receive official communications.

Serving as a Child and Youth Program Assistant is a fantastic way to build a meaningful career while making a tangible difference in the lives of military families. If you are ready to take the next step, submit your application today and join a team that truly values your contribution to the community.

Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on military families and help shape the next generation in a rewarding career with the Navy Child and Youth Programs.

Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year Job Overview

The Commander, Navy Installations Command is seeking dedicated Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistants to join the team at Naval Air Station Oceana/Dam Neck. In this role, you will provide essential care and developmental support to children and youth, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the well-being of military families while gaining professional training and advancement potential within the Department of the Navy.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
Ability to complete all Department of the Navy mandatory training requirements.
Successful completion of comprehensive background checks, including fingerprinting, Tier 1 child care checks, and state criminal history repositories.
Submission of a resume limited to two pages.
Proof of education (transcripts or diploma) is required at the time of application.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year

Six months of experience in a child or youth care setting for intermediate-level placement.
One year of experience in a child or youth care setting for target-level placement.
Possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
A degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field of study.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly wages
✓Employer-sponsored childcare fee discount (up to 50% for one child)
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Retirement savings plans
✓Paid time off (starting at 13 days annually)
✓Industry certification and college course tuition support
✓Diverse work schedule options

💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts, diplomas, or military spouse/veteran preference documents.
Complete the online application questionnaire through the provided portal.
Submit your application package by the closing date of August 29, 2026.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.

💡 General Tips

Be specific: Use your resume to clearly demonstrate how your past experience aligns with the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) listed.
Check your tech: Ensure your email account is not filtering out federal correspondence and that your inbox has space for new messages.
Stay within limits: The system will automatically reject resumes longer than two pages, so prioritize your most relevant experience.
Organize early: Have your DD-214, transcripts, or professional certifications scanned and ready before starting the online questionnaire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is experience in childcare required to apply?

While experience is preferred and helps determine your entry level, the Navy provides comprehensive training for motivated individuals. Entry-level positions are available for those starting their careers.

Are there benefits for employees' own children?

Yes! Employees working a minimum of 15 hours per week are eligible for a 50% fee discount for one child enrolled in Navy childcare programs.

What kind of background checks should I expect?

Because this role involves working with children, you will undergo a rigorous screening process, including fingerprinting, a Tier 1 child care check, and a check of state and federal records.

What if I don't have experience in childcare?

*A: We encourage candidates from various backgrounds to apply. We provide comprehensive training to ensure you are equipped with the skills needed to succeed.*

How long is the hiring process?

*A: Hiring timelines can vary due to the thorough nature of background checks. We will keep you updated via email regarding your application status.*

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) manages shore-based programs worldwide, providing the infrastructure and support services necessary to sustain the fleet and military families. The CYP team is committed to the physical, emotional, and social development of military youth. By joining our team, you become part of a professional network dedicated to continuous improvement, safety, and excellence in early childhood and youth development.