About the opportunity
Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) is seeking a Child & Youth Program Assistant (Educational Aid) for Child & Youth Programs (CYP) at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan. The incumbent will provide developmental care and instruction for children and youth ranging from 6 weeks to 18 years old. Responsibilities include creating safe, inclusive learning environments, implementing age-appropriate daily activities and curricula, conducting developmental assessments, maintaining health and safety regulations, and serving as a mandated reporter for child abuse and neglect. Positions span Entry Level (GSE-02), Intermediate (GSE-03), and Target Level (GSE-04).
Salary and benefits
- Competitive hourly wage ranging from $18.69 to $21.90 per hour
- Stability of Federal Civilian Service
- Quality work-life balance
- Comprehensive federal benefit packages
- Marine Corps Exchange and Base Facility privileges
Who can apply?
- Must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent
- Must be currently residing in Okinawa, Japan or arriving on official government orders to Okinawa
- Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and maintain required immunizations, including the annual influenza vaccine
- Must undergo and pass favorably adjudicated background checks and random drug testing
- Must be able to independently lift and carry up to 45 lbs, and over 45 lbs with assistance
- Must obtain and maintain current CPR and First Aid certifications
- GSE-02 (Entry Level): Prior experience working with children/youth preferred
- GSE-03 (Intermediate Level): Requires minimum 6 months experience in group child/youth programs plus completion of Entry Level DoW training or 6 semester hours of relevant college credit
- GSE-04 (Target Level): Requires minimum 12 months experience in group child/youth programs plus DoW standardized training, a CDA/MSA credential, or 12 semester hours of relevant college credit
Required documents
- Resume not exceeding 2 pages
- Social Security Card (presented during application process)
- Education or certification certificate(s), if applicable
- DD-214 Member Copy (if prior military)
- Sponsor's PCS orders for military and DoD civilian spouses exercising Military Spouse Preference (MSP)
- Written request/statement and ID card stamped 'TA' in red for Transition Assistance Program applicants
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted online by September 11, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET).
How to apply
- Submit application and required documents online via the MCCS Careers website for Job Opening ID 78560
- Ensure resume does not exceed two pages, as longer resumes will be automatically disqualified under the Merit Hiring Plan
- Log into your MCCS user account to monitor application status
Additional information
- Position is classified under Pay Level CY-I/II (GSE 2/3/4) and Job Series 1702.
- Individuals selected from this announcement may be converted to part-time or full-time at management discretion without further competition.
- Direct deposit of net pay is mandatory for all MCCS appointments.
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 currently living in Okinawa or relocating on official government orders.
- Candidates with a background in child development, specifically those meeting the GSE-03 or GSE-04 criteria through prior group program experience or relevant coursework.
- Applicants comfortable with the responsibilities of a mandated reporter in a structured, safety-focused educational setting.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is part-time, but management may change the status to full-time at their discretion.
- Candidates must pass a pre-employment physical and maintain specific immunizations, including annual influenza vaccines.
- The role requires strict adherence to safety and health regulations, including the ability to lift 45 lbs independently.
- Applicants should ensure their resume is exactly two pages or fewer to avoid automatic disqualification.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position serves as a practical way to integrate into the U.S. military community in Japan while contributing to essential youth services. It is well-suited for those aiming to develop professional skills in curriculum implementation and developmental assessment within a regulated federal framework.
Our take
This role is highly suitable for dedicated childcare professionals in the Okinawa area who are looking for a stable, federally-supported position with clear developmental expectations.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
