Launch Your Career in Child Development with the US Space Force at Buckley AFB

If you are passionate about child development and want to support the vital mission of our military families, the United States Space Force has an outstanding opportunity for you. We are currently recruiting Child and Youth Program Assistants (CYPA) to join our team at Buckley Space Force Base in Aurora, Colorado.

Job Responsibilities

As a Child and Youth Program Assistant, your primary duty is to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in our care. Depending on your assigned level, your responsibilities may include:

Providing Supervision: Maintaining constant accountability for children during indoor and outdoor activities, including field trips.
Activity Planning: Assisting in the preparation of age-appropriate programs that promote learning and interaction.
Daily Care: Serving meals and snacks and attending to the daily physical needs of participants.
Communication: Providing briefings to staff, management, and parents regarding the progress and activities of the children.

Level Comparison Table

Level	Experience Required	Training Needed
Entry	None	Orientation Training Program
Intermediate	6 months (equivalent)	3 AF Modules + Orientation
Target	18 months + Credentials	DoD competency courses

Requirements

To be eligible for these positions, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Education: You must hold a high school diploma or GED.
Age: You must be at least 18 years of age.
Communication: Proficiency in oral and written English is mandatory.
Verification: All applicants must pass an employment verification (E-Verify) and be able to obtain access to the installation.

Salary Overview

Compensation is determined by your placement in the entry, intermediate, or target level of the program:

Entry Level: $18.70 per hour
Intermediate Level: $22.69 per hour
Target Level: $24.26 per hour

Benefits

While this role is classified as a flexible position, employees enjoy several perks:

Childcare Discounts: A 100% discount on childcare fees for the first child and 37% for additional children (for those working 15+ hours/week).
Incentives: Potential for up to $1,500 annually through our Recognition and Retention programs.
Community: Working in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Be specific about your experience with child or youth programs. Include volunteer work, as it counts toward your qualifications.
Include References: Listing professional contact info for references will help streamline your background check.
Proofread: Ensure all required documentation (like your diploma) is attached to avoid being marked as incomplete.

Working as a Child and Youth Program Assistant at Buckley SFB is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide a stable, nurturing environment for the families who sacrifice so much for our nation. If you are ready to make an impact, apply by January 24, 2027.

Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on military families and their children by joining the United States Space Force Child and Youth Programs team at Buckley Space Force Base.

Child And Youth Program Assistant Job Overview

The United States Space Force is seeking dedicated individuals to serve as Child and Youth Program Assistants at Buckley Space Force Base, Colorado. These roles involve providing essential care, supervision, and engaging activities for children and youth ranging from six weeks to 18 years old. Positions are available at varying levels, from entry-level to target levels, offering a flexible work environment that supports the mission of Space Delta 4 and the broader Buckley Garrison community.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
Ability to effectively communicate in English, both orally and in writing.
Registration with Selective Service for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
Successful completion of an employment verification (E-Verify) check.
Ability to provide a REAL ID or authorized documentation for installation access.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant

For Target Level: 18 months of experience in a childcare/youth program plus completion of DoD competency-training courses.
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, military school-age credential, or other nationally recognized youth development certification.
Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (with at least 24 credit hours in relevant subject matter).
Intermediate Level: Six months of entry-level equivalent experience plus 3 Air Force training modules and Orientation Training Program completion.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓100% childcare fee discount for the first child enrolled for employees working 15+ hours per week.
✓37% childcare discount for additional children.
✓Potential for up to $1500 per year in recruitment, retention, and recognition incentives.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.

💡 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 your resume, ensuring it highlights all relevant paid and volunteer experience.
Gather required documentation, including diploma/GED and professional references.
Complete the online application questionnaire through the provided link.
Upload all necessary supporting documents.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline on January 24, 2027.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume lists contact information for professional and personal references to speed up the hiring process.
Review your application thoroughly to avoid errors; incomplete applications will not be considered.
If you have relevant performance appraisals or awards, be sure to include them in your resume.
You may sanitize sensitive personal information from documents like marriage certificates or military orders before submission.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding your application status updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay rate for this position?

Pay is based on the selected level: $18.70/hour for Entry, $22.69/hour for Intermediate, and $24.26/hour for Target.

Are there medical benefits for this position?

No, this is a flexible position that is not eligible for medical, dental, 401K, or life insurance benefits.

Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?

Yes, both paid and unpaid/volunteer experience is credited if clearly described in your resume.

Is a security clearance required?

*A: No, this position is designated as non-sensitive and does not require a security clearance.*

Can I apply if I don't have experience?

*A: Yes, we offer entry-level positions that provide the necessary on-the-job training.*

Job from United States Space Force

Buckley Space Force Base, home to the Buckley Garrison and Space Delta 4, is a pillar of the Aurora community. As a joint, total-force installation, Buckley supports active duty members, National Guard, Reservists, and thousands of civilian and contract personnel. Joining our team means becoming part of a community that contributes over $1 billion to the local economy annually and provides a world-class environment for military families.