Launch Your Career in Youth Development at Davis-Monthan AFB
Are you looking for a career that combines leadership with a meaningful impact? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a dedicated individual for a Child and Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) position at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona. This role is perfect for those passionate about early childhood education and committed to serving military families.
About the Air Force NAF
Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) positions are the backbone of the Air Force's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) mission. By joining the team at the School Age Program, you aren't just filling a vacancy; you are contributing to a support system that allows military personnel to serve their country with the peace of mind that their children are in a safe, professional, and enriching environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Leader Level assistant, your responsibilities extend beyond direct care. Key duties include:
- Leadership: Guiding staff members, providing on-the-job training, and modeling best practices.
- Programming: Designing and executing activities that meet the cognitive, physical, and emotional needs of children ages 6 weeks to 18 years.
- Accountability: Ensuring strict adherence to safety standards, reporting requirements, and staff-to-child ratios.
- Parental Engagement: Maintaining professional communication with families and providing regular updates on their child's development.
- Operations: Managing supply inventories, maintaining facilities, and potentially operating government vehicles for field trips or transport.
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following criteria to be eligible:
- Age: 18 years or older.
- Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Communication: Fluency in English (oral and written).
- Experience: Two years of experience in childcare or youth programs plus documented competency training, or an associate degree in a related field with two years of experience.
Qualifications Comparison
| Feature | Entry/Skilled Level | Leader Level Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Basic Childcare | 2 Years + Specialized Training |
| Education | HS Diploma | Associate Degree or Related Credits |
| Credentials | Optional | Required (e.g., CDA/Army Practicum) |
Benefits
- Childcare Discounts: A 100% discount on fees for the first child and a 37% discount for additional children.
- Professional Growth: Access to DoD-approved training and accreditation programs.
- Compensation: A stable, recurring hourly rate of $24.64.
- Mission Impact: The opportunity to support the families of those who protect our nation.
Application Tips
To ensure your application stands out:
- Highlight Experience: Clearly outline your years of service in childcare and specify the ages you have worked with.
- Include Proof: Do not forget to attach your diploma and any relevant certifications or college transcripts.
- Sanitize Personal Info: When uploading official military documents, you may black out private information like Social Security Numbers.
- Check Status: Use the online portal to verify that your submission is complete before the November 1st deadline.
This position offers a rare blend of professional responsibility and community impact. If you are ready to lead and grow within the Department of the Air Force, prepare your application and submit it through the official portal by November 1st. We look forward to seeing how your skills can help our youth thrive.
Why This Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) (Mvo) Job Matters
Shape the future of our youth while building a rewarding career in a dynamic, mission-driven environment at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.
Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) (Mvo) Job Overview
Join the Department of the Air Force as a Child and Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level). In this essential role, you will lead daily operations in our School Age Program, ensuring the safety, development, and well-being of children ranging from 6 weeks to 18 years old. This is a non-appropriated fund (NAF) position that offers a unique opportunity to influence young lives while receiving professional development and a competitive employee child care discount.
Requirements for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) (Mvo)
- Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Proficiency in English, both written and oral.
- 24 months of childcare or youth program experience combined with DoD approved competency training.
- OR 24 months of specialized experience plus an associate degree or 60 semester hours in a related field.
- Possession of a recognized childcare credential (e.g., CDA, Military School Age Credential, etc.).
- Ability to obtain a valid state driver's license and maintain a good driving record.
- Must be registered for Selective Service (for males born after 1959).
- Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) (Mvo)
- Bachelor's degree or at least 120 semester hours in early childhood education, child development, or related fields.
- Experience in team leadership or staff supervision within a youth program setting.
- Documented training in program administration or youth development.
- Proven history of maintaining facility compliance with DoD certification and national accreditation standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓100% childcare fee discount for the first child enrolled in a full-time or regular part-time DAF CDP.
- ✓37% childcare discount for subsequent children.
- ✓Professional development and on-the-job training.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a collaborative, mission-oriented environment.
- ✓Regular part-time schedule with guaranteed 20 hours and potential for up to 40 hours.
💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) (Mvo) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Assistant (Leader Level) (Mvo) Job
- Log in or create an account on the federal job portal.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, high school diploma/GED, and current driver's license.
- Attach any additional proof of eligibility (e.g., transcripts, military spouse preference documentation, DD-214).
- Review your application package for accuracy before the submission deadline.
- Submit your application and monitor the status through your dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume details specific experience with child or youth programs, including dates and responsibilities.
- If using education to qualify, ensure your transcripts are uploaded with your application.
- Double-check that all contact information for references is included.
- Submit your materials well before the November 1st deadline to allow for system processing and virus scans.
- Use the 'sanitize' option for sensitive documents like marriage certificates or military orders to protect your PII.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a NAF position?
A Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position is funded by revenue generated by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities rather than by taxpayer dollars. These positions play a vital role in supporting military community morale.
Is a driver's license required?
Yes, you must be able to obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license, as this role may involve transporting children in government vehicles.
What child care discounts are available for employees?
Eligible employees receive a 100% discount on childcare fees for their first child and a 37% discount for each subsequent child enrolled in the program.
Do I need a security clearance?
No, this position is categorized as non-sensitive, though a suitability/fitness background check is required.
What if I have an associate degree in an unrelated field?
Candidates typically need 24 credit hours in a related field (early childhood education, human development, etc.) to qualify under the education substitution rule.
Can I work up to 40 hours a week?
Yes, while the position guarantees 20 hours, there is potential for full-time work up to 40 hours based on program needs.