Launch Your Career in Youth Development at Patuxent River
Are you looking for a rewarding summer role that lets you give back to military families? The Department of the Navy is currently hiring Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistants at the Naval Air Station Patuxent River. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about fostering child development, safety, and fun in a structured environment.
Comparison Table: Qualification Levels
| Level | Experience Required | Education/Certifications |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | None (Preferred) | High School Diploma/GED |
| Intermediate | 6 Months | HS Diploma + Entry Training |
| Target | 1 Year | CDA/MSA Credential OR 2-year Degree |
Job Responsibilities
As a CYP Assistant, your day-to-day will involve:
- Curriculum Implementation: Executing activity plans that meet the physical, social, and emotional needs of the children.
- Supervision: Ensuring the safety and whereabouts of all participants during indoor and outdoor activities.
- Interaction: Providing positive guidance and fostering friendships among youth.
- Communication: Partnering with parents to provide updates on developmental progress.
- Compliance: Following all safety, health, and fire regulations mandated by the Department of Defense.
Requirements and Benefits
Applicants must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma. You will need to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a dedicated team. In return, the Navy offers industry-leading perks, including childcare discounts for your own children, career training, and generous leave policies.
This position is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to support the resilience of our military community. With excellent training programs and a supportive team, this is the perfect place to grow your career. Submit your application before November 6, 2026, to be considered.
Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant (Summer Camp Counselor) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on military families while building a career in youth development—your journey starts here at Patuxent River.
Child And Youth Program Assistant (Summer Camp Counselor) Job Overview
The Department of the Navy is looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team as Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistants for the upcoming season. In this role, you will be the heart of our summer camp experience, ensuring that children of military service members have a safe, engaging, and enriching environment to learn, play, and grow. Whether you are leading sports activities, coordinating arts and crafts, or fostering social development, you will play a vital role in the well-being of our military community.
Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Summer Camp Counselor)
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Possess a High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
- Must complete all mandatory Department of the Navy training requirements.
- Ability to work cooperatively within a team environment.
- Successfully clear all required background checks, including fingerprints, Tier 1, and State Criminal History Repository checks.
- Willingness to participate in E-Verify.
Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Summer Camp Counselor)
- Six months of experience in a child or youth care setting for Intermediate Level candidates.
- One year of experience in a child or youth care setting for Target Level candidates.
- Completion of Navy or equivalent military entry-level training.
- Valid Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
- Associate or higher degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related fields.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wages
- ✓Employee childcare fee discounts (up to 100% for the first child)
- ✓Opportunities for professional advancement and training
- ✓Paid time off (starting at 13 days)
- ✓Access to retirement savings plans
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant (Summer Camp Counselor) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Summer Camp Counselor) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full position requirements and ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Click the 'Apply' button to access the online questionnaire.
- Attach all required documentation, including diplomas, transcripts, and any applicable military preference documents.
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date of November 6, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the system strictly enforces a two-page limit.
- Be specific when describing your experience working with children to help recruiters assess your qualification level.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show the school name, degree awarded, and field of study.
- Check your email frequently after applying for status updates, and ensure your spam filters are configured to receive messages from usastaffing.gov.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues on the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree to apply?
No, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement. However, having a degree or certifications can qualify you for higher levels of responsibility.
What background checks are required?
Because this position involves working with children, you must undergo comprehensive checks including fingerprints, a Tier 1 background check, and an installation records check.
Is this a full-time position?
This position offers variable hours between 0-40 hours per week.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) manages shore-based programs that support the fleet, fighter, and family. Navy Child and Youth Programs are a vital resource, allowing military personnel to serve with confidence, knowing their children are in excellent, safe hands. We operate globally, offering competitive benefits and structured training for all team members.