Launch Your Career: Child and Youth Program Assistant in Gulfport
Are you looking for a career that combines personal growth with a meaningful mission? The Department of the Navy is seeking dedicated professionals for the position of Child and Youth Program Assistant in Gulfport, Mississippi. This role offers an incredible opportunity to influence the lives of children from military families while enjoying the stability of federal employment.
Job Responsibilities
As a CYP Assistant, your primary objective is to maintain a safe and educational environment. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Curriculum Development: Designing and implementing activity plans that support emotional, social, and intellectual growth.
- Supervision: Ensuring the safety and whereabouts of all children during indoor and outdoor play.
- Interaction: Building positive relationships with children, youth, and their parents.
- Compliance: Adhering to Department of Defense and local installation policies regarding health, fire, and safety.
- Communication: Providing daily feedback to parents regarding their child’s progress.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate a commitment to childhood development.
| Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | High School Diploma/GED | None required |
| Intermediate | High School Diploma/GED | 6 months in child/youth setting |
| Target | High School Diploma/GED/Degree | 1 year in child/youth setting |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $18.75 to $29.65. Your specific starting rate is determined by your verified education, years of experience, and the assigned level of the position.
Benefits
Working for the Navy comes with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your long-term success:
- Immediate Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance with no waiting period.
- Childcare Discounts: Significant fee reductions for children of staff members.
- Financial Planning: 401K with a 3% employer match and an NAF retirement plan.
- Work-Life Balance: 13 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave from the start.
- Recreation: Access to installation gyms, golf courses, and fitness centers.
Application Tips
- Be Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Do not exceed this limit.
- Documentation: Always attach your transcripts or high school diploma. If you have DoD-approved training certificates, include those to boost your eligibility.
- Monitor Your Email: Ensure your inbox is cleared to receive communication from the hiring team, as missed emails could result in missing an interview opportunity.
If you have a passion for childcare and want to support our military families, this is an ideal role for you. Apply today to start a rewarding career with the Department of the Navy in Gulfport, MS.
Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on military families by shaping the next generation as a Child and Youth Program Assistant in beautiful Gulfport, Mississippi.
Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Overview
Join the Commander, Navy Installations Command team at the Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport. This vital role involves providing high-quality direct care and developmental programming for children and youth. Whether you are at the entry level or an experienced professional, you will help create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment that fosters learning and growth while supporting our nation’s military heroes.
Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to complete all Department of the Navy training requirements.
- Must pass comprehensive background checks, including fingerprinting and child care-specific screenings.
- Submission of a resume (two-page limit).
- Evidence of education (diploma, GED, or transcripts).
Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant
- Six months of experience in a child or youth development setting for intermediate roles.
- One year of experience in a child or youth setting for target level roles.
- Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
- Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related social sciences.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay ($18.75 - $29.65)
- ✓Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance
- ✓NAF Retirement Plan and 401K with 3% employer match
- ✓13 days of paid annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Significant childcare tuition discounts for employees
- ✓Access to Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) facilities including gyms and golf courses
💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant Job
- Ensure you have a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume (maximum two pages).
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, high school diploma, or certifications.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume about your experience working with children or youth.
- Double-check that all transcripts clearly show your name and degree conferred date.
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will not be considered.
- Ensure your contact email is active and not blocked by spam filters to receive status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of background checks are required?
Because this position involves working with children, you must undergo a Tier 1 background check, fingerprinting, and an Installation Records Check (IRC) covering child abuse and neglect records.
Is there a degree requirement?
A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement. Higher-level positions may require specialized credentials like a CDA, MSA, or a degree in Early Childhood Education.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) manages the shore-based facilities that support the fleet, fighter, and family. The Child and Youth Programs (CYP) are at the heart of this mission, ensuring that parents serving in the military have the peace of mind knowing their children are in a high-quality, safe, and nurturing environment. We operate globally, providing stability and support to thousands of families.