Child and Youth Program Leader

Job Summary

Child and Youth Program Leader responsible for providing developmental care and instruction for children and youth ages 6 weeks through 18 years, mentoring program assistants, and ensuring compliance with DoD policies and local command standards.

• Provide direct care and instruction to children and youth.
• Mentor and supervise CY Program Assistants, including guidance, training, and performance monitoring.
• Plan and implement curriculum and activities appropriate to developmental stages and individual needs.
• Maintain indoor and outdoor activity areas, manage equipment inventory, and secure supplies.
• Ensure compliance with DoD, NAF Component, and local installation command policies, including safety and emergency protocols.
• Document developmental progression and conduct assessments; assist assistants with assessment tasks.
• Communicate professionally with employees, parents, and command personnel, including participation in conferences and briefings.
• Collect, maintain, and report program participation data.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• Test Designated Position (TDP) – subject to pre‑employment and random drug testing.
• Full background checks: fingerprint, Tier 1 Child Care, SCHR, and E‑Verify.
• Pre‑employment physical, immunization record, and health clearance.
• Security clearance as required.
• Required training certificates and credentials per federal, state, or national accreditation bodies.
• Participation in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer within 30 days of employment.
• From May 7, 2025, real‑ driver’s license or acceptable alternative for access to CNRMA Installations.

• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate programs for children and youth (6 weeks–18 years).
• Understanding of child and youth development principles, practices, and techniques.
• Ability to apply laws and regulations for child abuse prevention and neglect.
• Skill in program planning, employee scheduling, and mentoring.
• Emergency response skills.
• Training employees on health, illness, and child abuse recognition.
• Curriculum development and lesson‑plan creation.
• Effective oral and written communication skills; strong interpersonal skills.
• Minimum one year of experience at the CY‑02 (GSE‑04) level, or equivalent competency.

• Completion of DOD Standardized Module Training and 12 months experience at the CY‑02 level.
• OR Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School‑Age (MSA) credential and 12 months experience at the CY‑02 level.
• OR Minimum 2‑year degree in Youth Development, Child Development, or related field and 12 months experience at the CY‑02 level.

Applicants must provide copies of H.S. Diploma, GED, or college transcripts (showing degree awarded or in progress). If a degree has not been awarded, certificates of completion for DoD‑approved competency‑based training courses or a valid CDA/MSA credential must also be submitted.

All individuals required to perform child‑care activities on a Department of Navy installation must complete the Installation Records Check (IRC) and meet all background and drug‑free workplace requirements.