Launch Your Career in Youth Leadership: Child and Youth Program Assistant at Fort Dix
Are you looking for a rewarding role that combines leadership, child development, and support for military families? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a highly motivated Child and Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) to join the 87th Force Support Squadron at Fort Dix, New Jersey. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence the lives of children while working in a supportive, mission-focused environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a leader in the Child and Youth Program, your role goes beyond simple supervision. You are a mentor and a guide. Key responsibilities include:
- Leadership & Operations: Serve as a team leader for program staff, ensuring that all operations comply with Air Force and national certification standards.
- Child Supervision: Maintain accountability for children and youth (ages 6 weeks to 18 years) during indoor and outdoor activities, field trips, and special events.
- Developmental Programming: Plan and coordinate activities that meet the emotional, social, and physical needs of participants.
- Staff Mentorship: Conduct on-the-job training for team members, model positive child guidance techniques, and assist in performance evaluation input.
- Family Engagement: Interact professionally with parents, brief staff on special needs, and facilitate parental involvement.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate a blend of academic preparation and practical experience:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | High School Diploma/GED + Associate Degree in ECE/Youth Development or equivalent credential. |
| Experience | 1+ years at the CY03 level or equivalent. |
| Age | Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire. |
| Eligibility | Must be a U.S. citizen or meet residency requirements for the U.S. territory. |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive hourly wage of $28.49 per hour. As a NAF position, employees are part of a program designed to support MWR initiatives, providing stable employment within the Department of the Air Force.
Benefits
Working for the 87th FSS comes with unique perks tailored to your lifestyle:
- Child Care Discounts: Direct care staff receive a 100% discount on the first child enrolled in full-time/regular part-time DAF programs, and a 25% discount for additional children.
- Community Impact: The satisfaction of knowing your daily work directly supports the families who serve our nation.
- Professional Growth: Access to DoD-standardized training and accreditation paths.
Application Tips
- Highlight Your Leadership: Use your resume to describe specific instances where you led a team or managed a classroom effectively.
- Complete the Questionnaire: The online questionnaire is a critical component of your application. Ensure your answers align with the experience listed in your resume.
- Sanitize Personal Documents: If you include military orders or other private documents, feel free to remove sensitive personal data while keeping required verification information visible.
- Check Status Online: Utilize your USAJobs account to keep track of your application status after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a NAF position? A: NAF (Non-Appropriated Funds) positions are civilian roles within the military that are funded by MWR activities rather than taxes. They offer comparable benefits and professional standards.
Q: Do I need a degree for this role? A: Yes, an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Youth Development, or a related field (or an equivalent credential) is required.
If you are ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to a team that truly cares about the well-being of the next generation, this position at Fort Dix is the perfect fit. Apply today to help us uphold the highest standards of care for our military community.
Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) - Dix Job Matters
Shape the future of our military families—join the 87th FSS team as a Child and Youth Program Assistant leader at Fort Dix and make a lasting impact on the lives of children and youth.
Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) - Dix Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistant to serve in a leader-level capacity at Fort Dix, New Jersey. This Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) position is vital to the 87th Force Support Squadron, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children ranging from infancy to 18 years old. You will guide staff, oversee daily operations, and engage directly with families to foster a supportive community.
Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) - Dix
- High school diploma or equivalent (proof required).
- Minimum of one year of experience at the CY03 level or equivalent.
- Associate degree in early childhood education, youth development, or a related field (or equivalent Child Development/Youth Development Credential).
- Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
- Ability to pass a background check and E-Verify screening.
- U.S. Citizenship or meeting the 3-year residency requirement for U.S. Territories.
- For male applicants born after December 31, 1959, registration with the Selective Service is mandatory.
Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) - Dix
- Demonstrated maturity and sound judgment in child-care settings.
- Proven track record in team leadership and instructional guidance.
- Expertise in implementing Department of the Air Force child and youth program standards.
- Experience in coordinating special events, field trips, and daily structured activities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive child care fee discounts (100% for the first child, 25% for additional children for direct care staff).
- ✓Opportunity to work in a dynamic team environment within the 87th Force Support Squadron.
- ✓Access to a supportive military community with proximity to Philadelphia and New York City.
- ✓Professional development through Air Force standards and accreditation training.
💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) - Dix Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) - Dix Job
- Create or log into your USAJobs account.
- Review the full job announcement and preview the online questionnaire.
- Prepare your resume with complete contact information and a detailed history of your qualifying experience.
- Upload required documentation, including diploma, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference or military spouse documentation.
- Submit your completed online application, including the questionnaire, prior to the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check that all contact information for references is current.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your specialized experience; do not assume the reviewer knows your background.
- Submit your application early to allow time for system processing and virus scans.
- Review your application package for completeness before hitting submit to avoid disqualification.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information from supplemental documents if required by the instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a NAF position?
NAF stands for Non-Appropriated Funds. These are civilian positions funded by the revenue generated by the military's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs rather than through congressional appropriations.
Is a security clearance required?
No, this position is designated as non-sensitive/low risk, though it does require a suitability and fitness background investigation.
Are there child care discounts for employees?
Yes, direct care staff working at least 75% of their schedule in the classroom are eligible for a 100% discount on their first child's care and a 25% discount for additional children.
Job from Air Mobility Command
The 87th Force Support Squadron (FSS) is the heartbeat of community support at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Based in the heart of southern New Jersey, our team provides essential services that boost morale and improve the quality of life for our service members and their families. Located just an hour from the vibrant cultural hubs of Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore, our location offers a unique blend of professional service and quality living.