Child & Youth Program Leader

The incumbent provides specialized developmental care and instruction for children and youth ranging from 6 weeks to 18 years across one or more CY programs, while guiding, assisting, and mentoring CY Program Assistants.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and instruction to children and youth (6 weeks to 18 years) while mentoring CY Program Assistants.
• Mentor assigned CY Program Assistant team, assist with Standardized Module Training, and collaborate with the Training and Curriculum Specialist on professional development.
• Plan, review, and implement curriculum activities tailored to individual needs, including special dietary or physical requirements, and support special projects, homework, and life‑skills assistance.
• Prepare, arrange, and maintain indoor and outdoor activity areas; inventory equipment and recommend replenishment; secure supplies and facilities.
• Promote positive interactions among participants and use approved child guidance and youth development techniques.
• Supervise children and youth in compliance with DoD, NAF Component, and installation policies; ensure safety, monitor arrivals/departures, and oversee field trips and special events.
• Communicate professionally with employees, parents, school representatives, and installation command personnel; participate in conferences and briefings.
• Observe and document developmental progress, assist with assessments, and use findings for program planning.
• Ensure program area meets DoD certification and national accreditation standards and complies with applicable laws, policies, and regulations.
• Collect, maintain, and report program participation data; perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Subject to pre‑employment and random drug testing (Test Designated Position).
• Pass all background checks for child‑care positions, including fingerprint, Tier 1 Child Care check, State Criminal History Repository check, and E‑Verify.
• Pass a pre‑employment physical, provide immunization records, and be free of communicable diseases.
• Obtain and maintain appropriate security clearance (U.S. citizen required for Secret clearance).
• Complete required training certificates and maintain certifications/credentials required by Federal, State, or national accreditation bodies.
• Participate in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer within 30 days of employment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate programs for children and youth ages 6 weeks to 18 years.
• Understanding of child and youth development principles, practices, and techniques.
• Ability to apply Federal and State laws related to detection and prevention of child abuse/neglect.
• Skill in assessing interests and motivations of individuals and groups in a CY program environment.
• Experience in program planning, organizing, and employee scheduling.
• Leadership, mentoring, and guidance abilities for CY Program Assistants.
• Capability to identify and respond to emergency situations.
• Ability to train staff on childhood illnesses, child abuse recognition, and related issues.
• Competence in developing curriculum outlines and lesson plans.
• Effective oral and written communication skills in English and strong interpersonal skills.
• At least one (1) year of experience at the CY‑02 (GSE‑04) level or equivalent, demonstrating competency in developmentally appropriate programming.

Education

• Completion of DoD Standardized Module Training and 12 months experience at the CY‑II (GSE‑04) level; OR
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Military School‑Age (MSA) credential plus 12 months experience at the CY‑II (GSE‑04) level; OR
• Minimum 2‑year degree in Youth Development, Child Development, Recreation, Youth Recreation, Physical Education, Elementary or Secondary Education, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Social Work, Home Economics (human development emphasis), or a related field, plus 12 months experience at the CY‑II (GSE‑04) level.
• Must provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, or college transcripts (showing degree awarded) at application.