About the opportunity
Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistants work directly with children and youth, keeping them active, cared for, and safe while participating in CYP programs. The role includes helping children build social skills, make healthy lifestyle choices, develop school readiness, and explore their environment. Depending on the qualifying level—Entry, Intermediate, or Target—duties range from basic supervision and following instructions to planning activities, managing indoor and outdoor areas, implementing child development principles, communicating with parents, and assisting with program compliance and accreditation.
Salary and benefits
- Salary ranging from $21.55 to $24.9 per hour
- Eligible for benefits with a 35-40 hour per week schedule
- Participation in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer within the first 30 days
Who can apply?
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must possess a high school diploma, GED, or college transcripts showing a degree awarded/conferred
- Entry Level requires the ability to communicate effectively, follow instructions, complete training requirements, and work well with others
- Intermediate Level requires entry-level abilities, completion of Navy Entry Level training (or equivalent), and 6 months of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting
- Target Level requires 1 year of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting, plus completion of DoD standardized training, a valid CDA or MSA credential, or a minimum of a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
Required documents
- Resume (two-page limit)
- Proof of education/training: awarded college transcripts or, if degree hasn't been conferred, a copy of high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- If claiming DOD NAF Business Based Action (BBA) priority consideration: notice of separation
- If claiming Military Spouse Preference: sponsor's Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders and marriage certificate
- If claiming Veteran's Preference: DD-214 Member-4 page and any supporting documentation (SF-15, V.A. disability letter, etc.)
- If a current or former Federal Employee: most recent Personnel Action Report (PAR) or SF-50
When to apply
- Applications open on October 23, 2026
- Application closing date and deadline is November 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM (EST)
How to apply
- Log into or create a USAJOBS account
- Review the online application questionnaire preview
- Complete the online application questionnaire
- Prepare and upload a resume adhering to the two-page limit
- Gather and submit all required supporting documents such as transcripts and preference proofs
- Submit the complete application package through USAJOBS by the deadline
Additional information
- Incumbents must satisfactorily complete background checks for child care positions, including fingerprint checks, a Tier 1 with Child Care check, and a State Criminal History Repository (SCHR) check
- Must complete the Installation Records Check (IRC) including substance abuse, family advocacy, and installation security database checks
- Automatic disqualification applies for certain criminal convictions involving sexual offenses, child victims, felony drug offenses, or civil adjudications concerning the death or serious injury of a child
- Selectees may be required to complete a one-year probationary period and participate in E-Verify
- Non-affiliated individuals require a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to access NDW Installations
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Strong fit for individuals with background experience in early childhood education, youth recreation, or child care settings seeking structured employment with federal benefits.
- Well-suited for candidates who enjoy interactive work environments centered on child development, recreational planning, and educational support.
- An excellent option for military spouses, veterans, or former federal employees who may qualify for special hiring preferences.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applicants must be comfortable with comprehensive and mandatory background checks, including child care suitability screenings and fingerprinting.
- Relocation to or daily commuting to Indian Head, Maryland, is required, and visitors must meet installation access and REAL ID requirements.
- Strict documentation requirements apply, including a rigid two-page resume limit and mandatory proof of education at the time of application.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers stable employment with structured hourly compensation and benefits, making it an ideal opportunity for individuals looking to build a career in child and youth development, gain practical experience within Department of Defense programs, or secure a reliable full-time schedule in Maryland.
Our take
Candidates with experience or educational backgrounds in child care who meet the age, education, and background screening criteria should apply before the November 1, 2026 deadline. It is less suitable for individuals unable to meet rigorous federal child care background checks or those unable to commute to Indian Head, Maryland.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
