About the opportunity
The Child and Youth Program (CYP) Assistant works directly with children and youth, ensuring they are actively engaged, well-cared for, and safe. The role involves developing schedules and activity plans, implementing developmentally appropriate practices, and fostering positive interactions. Duties include supervising indoor and outdoor activities, maintaining program compliance with Department of Defense and Navy standards, communicating with parents, and documenting developmental progress. This position requires mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect and adherence to strict safety and health protocols. The role is multi-level, with responsibilities and qualification requirements increasing from entry to target levels.
Salary and benefits
- Annual Leave: 13 days per calendar year
- Sick Leave: 13 days per calendar year
- Paid Holidays: 11 days per year
- Medical (including vision) and Dental Insurance
- NAF Retirement Plan
- 401K Savings Investment Plan with employer match up to 3%
- Basic life insurance with optional life and spouse/dependent coverage
- Medical savings account (FSA)
- Access to Morale, Welfare & Recreation Programs (Golf, Marinas, Gyms, Bowling, Restaurants)
- Discounted tickets, travel options, and shopping privileges at the Navy Exchange
- Daycare discount
Who can apply?
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
- Entry Level: Ability to communicate effectively in English and follow instructions
- Intermediate Level: 6 months of experience in a child/youth setting and completion of Navy Entry Level training (or equivalent)
- Target Level: 1 year of experience in a child/youth setting and completion of DoD standardized training, a valid CDA/MSA credential, or a 2-year degree in a related field (e.g., Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Youth Recreation)
Required documents
- Resume (two-page limit)
- Proof of education/training (college transcripts or high school diploma/GED)
- Notice of separation (if claiming DOD NAF BBA priority consideration)
- Sponsor's PCS orders and marriage certificate (if claiming Military Spouse Preference)
- DD-214, Member-4 page and supporting documentation (if claiming Veteran's Preference)
- Most recent Personnel Action Report (PAR) or SF-50 (if current or former Federal Employee)
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-09-16 at 11:59 PM EST
How to apply
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account
- Complete the online application questionnaire
- Upload the required documents, ensuring the resume does not exceed the two-page limit
- Submit the complete application package by the closing date
Additional information
- This is a Regular Full-Time position with a pay range of 20.43-26.29 per hour.
- Conditions of employment include satisfactory completion of background checks (fingerprint, Tier 1 with Child Care, State Criminal History Repository, and Installation Records Check).
- Automatic disqualifiers include certain criminal convictions (sexual offenses, child victim offenses, felony drug offenses) or civil/administrative findings of negligence regarding the death or serious injury of a child.
- Selectee may be required to complete a one-year probationary period.
- Participation in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer is required within the first 30 days.
- E-Verify is used to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.
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…
- Individuals with a high school diploma seeking a stable, full-time role in child development.
- Candidates with 1+ years of experience and relevant certifications like a CDA or 2-year degree for target-level placement.
- Those looking for a comprehensive benefits package including retirement, insurance, and MWR program access.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires strict adherence to safety protocols and mandatory reporting, which may be emotionally demanding.
- Applicants must undergo extensive background checks, including fingerprinting and installation records checks.
- The position is on-site in Fort Worth, so candidates should be prepared for a daily commute to the Naval Air Station.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is ideal for those aiming to build a career in early childhood education within a structured, mission-driven environment. It offers a clear pathway for professional growth through multi-level qualification requirements and provides the stability of federal employment benefits.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for dedicated child care professionals seeking long-term stability and federal benefits; it is less suitable for those uncomfortable with rigorous background screening or strict regulatory compliance.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
