Launch Your Career as a Child and Youth Program Assistant
Are you looking for a career that combines professional growth with the rewarding mission of supporting military families? The Department of the Navy is currently seeking compassionate, dedicated individuals to join our team as Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistants in Great Lakes, Illinois.
Job Responsibilities
As a CYP Assistant, you are the heartbeat of our facility. Your daily responsibilities include:
- Curriculum Execution: Implementing engaging activities that support cognitive, social, and physical development.
- Safety and Supervision: Maintaining a secure environment and accounting for the whereabouts of all children.
- Parent Engagement: Providing regular updates and maintaining professional communication with parents regarding their child's progress.
- Compliance: Ensuring adherence to DoD and local installation health and safety standards.
Qualification Requirements
| Position Level | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | High School Diploma/GED, at least 18 years old |
| Intermediate | Entry level + 6 months experience + Navy Training |
| Target Level | 1 year experience + CDA, MSA, or 2-year Degree |
Salary and Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust compensation package designed to reward your dedication. Pay rates range from $21.02 to $33.15 per hour, depending on qualifications. Benefits include:
- Employee Childcare Discount: 50% discount on childcare fees.
- Health and Wellness: Excellent health insurance plans.
- Paid Time Off: Starting with 13 days per year.
- Career Growth: Funding for industry certifications and college courses.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your resume is concise and limited to two pages. Clearly articulate your previous experience in child care settings to qualify for higher pay grades. Always double-check your application for completion before the September 25, 2026, deadline.
If you want a career that makes a difference every day, this is the place to be. Apply today to help build a brighter future for the children of those who serve our country.
Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of military families as a Child and Youth Program Assistant in Great Lakes, Illinois, where your work truly matters.
Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year Job Overview
The Department of the Navy is hiring Child and Youth Program Assistants to provide high-quality care and education for the children of our nation's military service members. In this role, you will foster a safe, inclusive environment that encourages social development, healthy lifestyle choices, and academic readiness. Join a supportive team committed to excellence, and take advantage of advancement opportunities, professional training, and industry-leading benefits, including potential hiring incentives and childcare discounts.
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.
- High school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to follow detailed verbal and written instructions.
- Successful completion of comprehensive background checks, including fingerprints and child care provider suitability screening.
- Must possess or be willing to obtain necessary DoD training certifications.
- Requirement for Entry Level: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Requirement for Intermediate Level: 6 months of experience in a child/youth setting.
- Requirement for Target Level: 1 year of experience plus CDA, MSA, or a 2-year degree in a related field.
Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant - May Be Eligible For 1000.00 Incentive At 6 Mo. And 1 Year
- Previous professional experience working with children or youth.
- Current Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
- Associate or higher degree in Early Childhood Education, Youth Development, or related fields.
- Completion of Navy, Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps entry-level training requirements.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wages
- ✓50% childcare fee discount for employees
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans
- ✓13 days of paid time off to start
- ✓Professional development and industry certification support
- ✓Flexible 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 limited to exactly two pages.
- Gather required educational documents (Diplomas/Transcripts).
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all supporting documentation before the closing date of September 25, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Be specific about your child care experience to qualify for higher pay levels.
- Double-check that all transcripts clearly show your name, institution, and degree status.
- Verify your email address is correct to receive important status updates.
- If claiming veteran or military spouse preference, ensure those documents are attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree required for this position?
No, a high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum requirement for the entry level. Higher-level positions may require specific credentials or degrees.
What is the childcare discount?
Eligible employees receive a 50% fee discount for one child, with additional discounts available for multiple children.
Do I need base access to work here?
Yes, all personnel must meet installation security requirements and provide REAL ID-compliant identification for base access.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
Navy Child and Youth Programs are vital to the mission of our military. We provide safe, nurturing environments for the children of service members, allowing their parents to focus on their critical duties. With locations across 19 states and worldwide, we offer a stable, supportive, and growth-oriented work environment. We believe that when our military families are supported, our entire nation benefits.