Launch Your Career in Child Development at RAF Lakenheath

Are you passionate about fostering the growth and development of children? The U.S. Air Force is offering a unique opportunity for individuals to join our team as a Child and Youth Program Assistant at RAF Lakenheath. This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide essential support to military families while building a meaningful career in education and youth services.

Job Responsibilities

The Child and Youth Program Assistant (CYPA) is responsible for the safety, supervision, and development of children ranging from infants to teenagers. Depending on your experience level, duties may include:

Providing Supervision: Maintaining constant accountability for children during indoor, outdoor, and field trip activities.
Activity Planning: Assisting in the preparation and facilitation of age-appropriate curriculum and programs.
Environment Creation: Ensuring a welcoming space that encourages positive interaction and developmental milestones.
Administrative Tasks: Managing equipment inventories, coordinating with parents, and adhering to strict safety protocols.

Comparison of Pay and Experience Levels

Level	Required Experience	Hourly Rate
Entry Level	No prior experience required	$18.70
Intermediate Level	6 months in a group program/training	$20.31
Target Level	18 months + credentials/degrees	$21.53

Requirements

To be eligible, you must hold a high school diploma and meet local residency requirements. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Proof of U.S. citizenship or specific residency status within the UK is required. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in English.

Benefits

Working for Air Force NAF comes with distinct advantages, most notably the 100% childcare fee discount for your first child enrolled in our programs. This allows our employees to access high-quality care while they work.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the USAJobs portal. Ensure you have your resume, diploma, and any supporting preference documents ready to upload. All applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 PM EST on November 1, 2026.

Join a community that values your contribution and supports your professional growth. Whether you are just beginning your journey in youth services or you are a seasoned expert, the U.S. Air Force at RAF Lakenheath offers a supportive environment to succeed.

Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in child development while supporting the U.S. Air Force community at RAF Lakenheath. Join our dedicated team and enjoy significant childcare fee discounts while making a lasting impact on military families.

Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Overview

The U.S. Air Force at RAF Lakenheath is seeking committed individuals to serve as Child and Youth Program Assistants. This role is vital for maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children and youth ranging from six weeks to 18 years of age. Successful candidates will support program operations, facilitate developmental activities, and ensure the well-being of all participants. Positions are available at entry, intermediate, and target levels, with compensation scaled based on your specific experience, education, and credentials.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant

Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of appointment.
Must reside within a 60-mile radius of RAF Lakenheath or be able to relocate within 30 days.
Must hold a valid U.S. Social Security number and provide proof of legal residency status in the UK.
Must not be considered 'ordinarily resident' in the UK.
Effective oral and written communication skills in English.
Ability to undergo and pass all required background and suitability checks.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant

18 months of experience in professional childcare or youth program settings.
Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School Age credential.
Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
Completion of DoD-approved competency-training modules.
Current status as a military spouse or family member with preference eligibility.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Significant childcare fee discounts for staff members (100% for the first child, 37% for subsequent children).
✓Comprehensive career development through DoD-approved training.
✓Work-life balance with part-time scheduling.
✓Exposure to a diverse, international military community.
✓Post Allowance benefits for eligible full-time staff.

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

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJobs account.
Prepare a detailed resume highlighting relevant childcare or volunteer experience.
Gather supporting documentation, including diplomas, transcripts, and any preference-claiming documents (e.g., PCS orders, marriage certificates).
Complete the online questionnaire via the USAStaffing platform.
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on November 1, 2026.
Monitor your status via the USAJobs dashboard for notifications.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your experience with different age groups to qualify for higher pay tiers.
If claiming preference (such as Military Spouse Preference), ensure your supporting documents are clearly attached and legible.
Clean up your resume by removing personal identifiers like photographs, which are not permitted.
Sanitize sensitive documents by removing PII of other individuals while ensuring your eligibility remains clear.
Double-check your responses in the assessment questionnaire to ensure they align accurately with your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay difference between the levels?

Pay is tiered based on qualification: Entry level starts at $18.70/hr, Intermediate level at $20.31/hr, and Target level at $21.53/hr.

Are dual US/UK citizens eligible to apply?

Yes, dual citizens are welcome to apply for these NAF positions.

What does 'ordinarily resident' mean?

It generally refers to individuals who have resided in the UK for more than 366 days without a specific affiliation to the U.S. Visiting Forces.

Job from U.S. Air Forces, Europe

Air Force Services Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) are dedicated to providing comprehensive Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs. By joining our team, you become a valued member of an organization focused on supporting the resiliency and well-being of the Air Force and Space Force community.