Launch Your Career in Child Development at Joint Base Charleston

Are you looking for a meaningful career where you can make a tangible difference in the lives of children and youth? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking dedicated individuals for the position of Child and Youth Program Assistant (CYPA) at the Joint Base Charleston Weapons Station. This role is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about education, mentorship, and child development to grow within a professional, military-supportive environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Child and Youth Program Assistant, you will be the cornerstone of our childcare facilities. Your primary duties include:

Safety and Supervision: Ensuring the well-being and accountability of all children in the program.
Activity Facilitation: Preparing and leading age-appropriate activities, both indoors and outdoors.
Daily Support: Assisting with meal times, transitions, and the physical needs of the children.
Communication: Engaging with parents, staff, and management regarding student progress and daily plans.
Logistics: Maintaining clean, organized spaces and inventorying program materials.

Comparison of Pay Levels

Level	Requirements	Pay Rate
Entry Level	No experience required	$18.70/hr
Intermediate	6 months experience + training	$20.35/hr
Target Level	18 months experience + credentials	$21.76/hr

Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Must be 18 years or older.
Must provide a high school diploma or equivalent.
Must possess strong English communication skills.
Must pass all background checks and security suitability screenings.

Benefits

Employees of the NAF system enjoy a variety of perks designed to enhance quality of life, including:

Child Care Discounts: Significant fee reductions for staff children.
Fitness: Free access to on-base fitness facilities.
Recreation: Discounted travel and theme park tickets.
Community: Participation in base-wide events and morale programs.

Application Tips

Be Thorough: Ensure your resume highlights all volunteer or paid childcare experience.
Check Your Eligibility: If applying under a military spouse or veteran preference, ensure your documentation is clear and attached.
Follow Directions: The online questionnaire is a critical part of the application process; take your time to answer accurately.

Working as a Child and Youth Program Assistant is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the families who protect our nation. If you are ready to start a rewarding career with the Air Force, apply now and join the team at Joint Base Charleston.

Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant (Entry Level) Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in child development at Joint Base Charleston—a community focused on excellence, support, and growth.

Child And Youth Program Assistant (Entry Level) Job Overview

The Air Force Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) is seeking dedicated individuals to serve as Child and Youth Program Assistants at the Child Development Center in Goose Creek, South Carolina. This flexible position is perfect for those passionate about early childhood education, offering competitive hourly rates and a supportive environment dedicated to military families. As part of the 628th Force Support Squadron, you will help create a safe, engaging, and enriching atmosphere for children and youth, while enjoying unique base-wide benefits.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Entry Level)

Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
High school diploma or equivalent (proof required).
Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
Must successfully complete all background and employment verification (E-Verify) checks.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Ability to provide a REAL ID or authorized identity documents for base access.
18 months of relevant childcare/youth program experience (for Target Level).
6 months of equivalent experience (for Intermediate Level).

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Entry Level)

Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
Military School Age credential.
Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Human Development, or a related field.
Completion of DoD-approved competency-training courses.
Experience in recreational programming or physical education.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Child care fee discounts for direct care staff.
✓Free fitness center membership.
✓Discounted tickets for major theme parks (Disney/Universal).
✓Access to exclusive base events and programs.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
✓Competitive hourly pay rates.

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

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Entry Level) Job

Create or log into your USAJobs account.
Review the full job announcement and online questionnaire.
Prepare your resume with detailed experience, contact info, and education history.
Upload required documents (transcripts, diplomas, certifications, or DD-214).
Complete the online application and submit before the September 11, 2026, deadline.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in childcare or youth development.
Double-check that all required documentation is uploaded and clearly labeled.
Verify your eligibility for specific hiring preferences (e.g., military spouse) and provide proof.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding your application status.
Submit your application well before the deadline to account for system processing times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a NAF position?

NAF stands for Nonappropriated Fund. These positions support Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities for the Air Force, and are funded by the revenue generated from those programs rather than tax dollars.

Is a college degree required?

Not for all levels. An entry-level position requires no previous experience, though higher levels of the role require specific education or credentials like a Child Development Associate (CDA).

Can I work part-time?

Yes, this is a flexible position that can involve variable hours up to 40 hours per week based on the needs of the facility.

What is the work schedule like?

*A: This is a flexible position that can work up to 40 hours per week based on facility demand.*

Do I need a degree?

*A: It depends on the level. While we accept entry-level candidates, higher pay grades require specific experience or degrees in early childhood education.*

Job from Air Mobility Command

The Air Force Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) provides essential Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) services to our service members, retirees, and their families. Located in the beautiful, historic city of Charleston, South Carolina, Joint Base Charleston is a hub of activity and excellence. Joining the 628th Force Support Squadron means becoming part of a community that values its employees, offering exclusive benefits and a welcoming, dynamic work culture.