Lead Child and Youth Program Assistant CY-02

U.S. Army MWR; Fort Drum (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Army MWR is seeking a Child Development Program Leader at Fort Drum, New York. This role involves ensuring proper care and instruction for children and youth, aged 6 weeks to 18 years.

Responsibilities include implementing educational programs and ensuring staff adherence to health and safety standards. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Previous experience in childcare or education is preferred.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs.
• Maintain CPR and First Aid certifications.

Responsibilities

• Ensure program staff provides developmental care for children/youth.
• Develop and implement age-appropriate educational lesson plans.
• Monitor and enforce health and safety standards.

Skills

Effective communication in English

Child/youth development knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Summary

Child Development Centers, Fort Drum, New York.

Child and Youth Services (CYS) Employee Childcare Fee applicable to employees working at least 15 hours per week.

• First Child: 100% childcare fee discount.
• Second and Subsequent Child: 25% childcare fee discount.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a team leader ensuring program staff provides appropriate developmental care and instruction for children and youth ages 6 weeks to 18 years.
• Implement a developmentally appropriate program promoting social, emotional, physical and cognitive growth.
• Instruct team members in specific tasks and job techniques; provide written instructions, reference materials, and supplies.
• Develop, plan and implement age‑appropriate educational lesson plans, schedules, and activities based on observed needs and interests of children and youth.
• Ensure staff adhere to health and safety standards: diapering, toileting, hand washing, cleaning/sanitizing surfaces, food service, safe sleep practices, and care of ill children and youth.

Requirements

• Direct deposit and Social Security card required.
• At least 18 years of age at appointment; meet all qualification/eligibility/background requirements for this position.
• One‑year probationary period may be required.
• Completion of E‑Verify check required.
• Background check and favorable adjudication required (Section 231, 34 U.S.C. § 20351).
• Immunization requirements: influenza vaccine and other communicable disease vaccines per ACIP recommendations.
• Pass a pre‑employment physical and subsequent physicals; maintain evidence of immunizations.
• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs, walk, bend, stoop, and stand as required.
• Visual and auditory capabilities to supervise children, comply with sight and sound supervision requirements, and respond appropriately.
• Legally required to report all suspected incidents of child abuse/neglect.
• Complete DoW and Service training requirements; maintain current CPR and First Aid certifications.
• Mobilize to ensure safety of children and youth; engage in repetitive actions such as walking, standing, bending, and sitting on floor; lift children safely.
• Majority of work performed at CYS facility (classroom, activity areas, outdoor areas) with occasional field trips.
• May work evenings, weekends, and holidays to accommodate program schedules.

Qualifications

• Minimum 18 years of age; high school diploma or equivalent.
• Effective communication in English, oral and written, for reports, plans, and documentation.

Preferred Experience

• Minimum 18 months experience in group programs with children/youth plus demonstrated knowledge in child/youth development theories and principles and completion of DoW standardized training course, CDA or MSA credential.
• Alternatively, 12 months experience in group programs with children/youth, plus knowledge in child growth and development, with an associate’s degree or 60 semester hours in early childhood, elementary, or secondary education; or a bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in related fields.

Education

• Proof of education required at time of application; must be directly related to the position.
• Qualified via DoW approved competency training courses, provide completion documentation such as Foundation IDP, certificate, or memorandum.

Benefits and Compensation

• Salary under pay‑band system; eligibility for Sunday premium pay and night differential pay authorized by Garrison Commander.
• Non‑foreign overseas allowances, cost of living (COLA), and differentials not paid.
• Temporary commissary privileges (excluding tobacco or alcohol) valid until 31 December 2026.

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.