Embark on a Rewarding Career: Child and Youth Program Leader

Are you looking for a career that combines education, leadership, and community service? The Department of the Navy is seeking dedicated professionals to fill the role of Child and Youth Program (CYP) Leader. This position offers a unique opportunity to directly influence the lives of military children, providing them with safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environments while their parents serve our country.

Job Responsibilities

As a CYP Leader, you are more than just a caregiver—you are a mentor, an educator, and a leader. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Mentoring: Guiding CY Program Assistants through training and professional development.
Curriculum Planning: Designing engaging activities that support physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
Environment Management: Maintaining safe, clean, and interactive spaces for children of all ages.
Safety and Oversight: Implementing strict safety protocols and ensuring compliance with DoD standards.
Communication: Serving as a primary point of contact for parents and coordinating with staff to meet individual child needs.

Qualifications and Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet specific educational and professional benchmarks.

Requirement	Criteria
Education	High School Diploma/GED (Min) OR 2-year degree (Preferred)
Certification	CDA or Military School-Age (MSA) credential preferred
Experience	1 year at the CY-02 (GSE-04) level or equivalent
Clearance	Must pass an Installation Records Check (IRC)

Salary and Benefits

This position offers competitive hourly wages ranging from $27.18 to $35.33, depending on experience. Beyond the paycheck, the Navy provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Affordable and high-quality health insurance.
Retirement savings opportunities.
Significant discounts on childcare for your own children.
$1000 incentive bonuses for long-term commitment.
Generous paid time off.

Application Tips

Respect the limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will be automatically restricted.
Documentation is Key: Ensure all college transcripts are clear and show the institution name and degree status.
Clarity: Use the language from the job description to explain your experience level accurately.

Becoming a Child and Youth Program Leader is a meaningful way to advance your career while making a tangible difference for those who serve. With excellent benefits, training, and a supportive team, your professional growth is a priority. Apply today to help us continue this vital mission in Bangor and Bremerton.

Why This Child And Youth Program Leader Job Matters

Shape the future of military families by providing world-class developmental care as a Child and Youth Program Leader with the Navy.

Child And Youth Program Leader Job Overview

Join the Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) as a Child and Youth Program (CYP) Leader. This role is pivotal in maintaining the physical, emotional, and social well-being of children and youth aged 6 weeks to 18 years. You will serve as both a caregiver and a mentor to program assistants, ensuring that military families receive the highest quality of support while they serve our nation.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Leader

One year of experience at the CY-02 (GSE-04) level or equivalent.
Completion of DoD Standardized Module Training OR possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
Alternatively, a minimum of a 2-year degree in Youth Development, Child Development, Education, Psychology, or a related field plus one year of experience.
Must be able to pass a rigorous background check, including an Installation Records Check (IRC).
Must remain drug-free as per Federal Law.
High School Diploma or GED is required for all applicants.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Leader

Proven track record in curriculum planning and development.
Experience mentoring and training junior staff members.
Strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with parents and staff.
Ability to respond swiftly to emergency situations and childhood health issues.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly wages ($27.18 - $35.33)
✓Significant childcare discounts for eligible employees
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Retirement savings plans
✓Paid time off (starting at 13 days)
✓Incentive bonuses of up to $1000 at 6 and 12 months
✓Professional development and industry certification support

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

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Leader Job

Log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages).
Gather proof of education, such as college transcripts or high school diploma.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Submit your application package before the closing date.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit; excess pages will not be accepted.
Be specific regarding your experience level and how it relates to the required KSAs.
Ensure your transcripts clearly show the institution name, degree awarded, and field of study.
Check that your contact email is active and not filtering out automated messages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age range of children served in this role?

You will provide care and instruction for children and youth ranging from 6 weeks up to 18 years of age.

Do I need a degree to apply?

While a 2-year degree is one path to qualification, you may also qualify through a combination of DoD Standardized Module Training and relevant experience, or by holding a valid CDA or MSA credential.

Is a drug test required?

Yes. As a Federal employee in a sensitive role, you must remain drug-free. Marijuana use is illegal under Federal law and will result in disqualification.

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) oversees the well-being of military families worldwide. By providing essential services like childcare and youth development, CNIC ensures that service members can focus on their mission with peace of mind. Working with the Navy means joining a global community dedicated to excellence, integrity, and support.