Launch Your Career: Child & Youth Program Leader in Chesapeake, VA

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and youth? The Department of the Navy is looking for a dedicated Child & Youth Program Leader to join the team at the NSAHR North West Annex in Chesapeake, Virginia. This role is more than just a job; it is a critical support system for our military families, ensuring their children are safe, nurtured, and intellectually engaged.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Leader, you will wear many hats, from mentor to curriculum planner. Key duties include:

Mentorship: Guiding and training junior Program Assistants to ensure high-quality care standards.
Curriculum Development: Creating engaging activities that meet the physical, social, and emotional needs of youth from infants to teenagers.
Safety & Compliance: Maintaining a secure environment according to DoD and national accreditation standards.
Communication: Collaborating with parents and staff to ensure individual child needs—such as dietary or special requirements—are addressed.

Requirements

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate one of the following pathways:

DoD Standardized Module Training + 12 months of experience.
CDA or MSA Credential + 12 months of experience.
2-year degree in a related field (Education, Psychology, Youth Development) + 12 months of experience.

Feature	Requirement Detail
Location	Chesapeake, Virginia
Experience Level	12 months at CY-II (GSE-04)
Security Clearance	Low Risk / Non-sensitive
Drug Testing	Required (Zero tolerance)

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $24.55 and $31.90. Beyond the paycheck, you will enjoy:

Robust health and retirement benefits.
Paid time off.
Potential for performance-based incentives.
Ongoing professional development and tuition support.

Application Tips

Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be accepted.
Be Specific: Explicitly state your experience at the CY-II or GSE-04 level to ensure HR can verify your qualifications.
Document Everything: Always attach your transcripts or diplomas, even if you have years of experience. Proof of education is a non-negotiable requirement.

Serving as a Child & Youth Program Leader allows you to build a meaningful career while providing vital support to military personnel. With excellent benefits and a clear path for advancement, this is an opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to a mission that truly matters. Apply by September 25, 2026, to be considered.

Why This Child & Youth Program Leader Job Matters

Shape the future of military families by fostering growth, safety, and learning for children of all ages as a dedicated Program Leader.

Child & Youth Program Leader Job Overview

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is seeking a dedicated Child & Youth Program Leader to provide specialized developmental care and mentorship at the NSAHR North West Annex in Chesapeake, Virginia. This role is vital to ensuring that military families have the support they need by providing a safe, educational, and enriching environment for children and youth ranging from six weeks to 18 years old. You will serve as a lead mentor for Program Assistants, assisting with curriculum development and ensuring high-quality standards of care are met across the facility.

Requirements for Child & Youth Program Leader

Completion of DoD Standardized Module Training with 12 months of experience at the CY-II level.
Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential with 12 months of experience at the CY-II level.
A two-year degree in Youth Development, Child Development, Education, Psychology, or a related field with 12 months of experience at the CY-II level.
Must be able to pass a rigorous background check including an Installation Records Check (IRC).
Must maintain a drug-free workplace; positive tests for illegal substances (including marijuana) are strictly prohibited.
Ability to effectively communicate in English, both orally and in writing.

Preferred Qualifications for Child & Youth Program Leader

Proven experience in developing age-appropriate curriculum for children aged 6 weeks to 18 years.
Strong leadership skills with experience in mentoring and guiding junior staff.
Proficiency in program planning, scheduling, and emergency response protocols.
Demonstrated ability to maintain compliance with federal and state child safety regulations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly wages
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Retirement savings plans
✓Paid time off starting at 13 days
✓Opportunities for professional advancement and industry certification support
✓Potential for recruitment/retention incentives

💡 How to Apply Child & Youth Program Leader Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Child & Youth Program Leader Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link.
Upload all required documentation, including transcripts, diplomas, and relevant credentials.
Submit your full application package before the deadline on September 25, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically highlights your experience at the CY-II or GSE-04 level.
Double-check your resume page count; the system will reject anything over two pages.
Have your high school diploma or college transcripts ready, as they are mandatory for verification.
If claiming veteran or military spouse preference, ensure all supporting documentation (like DD-214 or PCS orders) is attached.
Review your application status frequently through your USAJOBS dashboard to stay updated on the next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a degree mandatory for this position?

A degree is one of three pathways to qualification. You may qualify with DoD Standardized Module Training, a professional credential (CDA/MSA), or a two-year degree, provided you also have the required 12 months of experience.

What kind of background checks are required?

Because this role involves working with children, you must undergo an Installation Records Check (IRC), which reviews substance abuse records, family advocacy history, and security clearances.

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) operates worldwide, providing essential support to those who serve. With a mission to empower military families, the organization values professional development, offering training, certification support, and clear advancement paths for those committed to child development.