Child and Youth Program Leader

Commander, Navy Installations Command•Bangor, WA

21h

About The Position

The Child and Youth Program Leader provides specialized developmental care and instruction to children and youth from 6 weeks to 18 years of age in one or more Child and Youth (CY) programs. The role also provides guidance, assistance, mentoring, and training support to CY Program Assistants. Routine assignments are generally performed independently, with supervisor assistance available for complex or nonroutine issues; work is reviewed to ensure compliance with applicable policies, procedures, and instructions. The position plans and implements age-appropriate activities, maintains indoor and outdoor activity environments, supervises children and youth, communicates with parents and employees, observes and documents developmental progress, and supports program compliance with Department of Defense and other applicable standards. The incumbent may also collect and report participation data and perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

One year of experience at the CY-02 (GSE-04) level or equivalent demonstrating knowledge of and competency in developmentally appropriate programming for children and youth.
Knowledge of developmentally appropriate programs addressing the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs of children and youth ages 6 weeks to 18 years.
Knowledge of child and youth development principles, practices, and techniques.
Skill in applying Federal and State laws governing the detection and prevention of child abuse and neglect.
Skill in understanding the interests and motivation of individuals and groups in a CY program environment.
Skill in program planning, organizing, and employee scheduling.
Skills in providing leadership, mentoring, and guidance to CY Program Assistants.
Ability to identify and respond to emergency situations.
Ability to train employees on topics including recognition and identification of childhood illnesses and child abuse.
Ability to develop curriculum outlines and lesson plans or guides.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, orally and in writing, and strong interpersonal skills.
Must complete DoD Standardized Module Training and have 12 months of experience at the CY-II (GSE-04) level; OR hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential and have 12 months of CY-II (GSE-04) experience; OR have at least a two-year degree in Youth Development, Child Development, or a related field and 12 months of CY-II (GSE-04) experience.
Must provide a copy of a high school diploma, GED, or college transcripts showing an awarded degree when applying. Additional documentation may be required for unawarded degrees, approved competency-based training certificates, or valid CDA/MSA credentials.
Must consent to pre-employment and random drug testing because the position is designated as a Test Designated Position.
Must satisfactorily complete child-care background checks, including fingerprint checks, a Tier 1 with Child Care check, and a State Criminal History Repository check.
Must successfully pass E-Verify employment verification and resolve any discrepancies as a condition of employment.
Must pass a pre-employment physical, provide evidence of immunization, be free of communicable diseases, and obtain appropriate immunizations.
Must obtain and maintain appropriate security clearance as needed.
Must complete required training certificates and maintain certifications or credentials required by Federal, State, or national accreditation institutions used by DoD Child and Youth Programs.
Must participate in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer within the first 30 days of employment.
Must complete the Installation Records Check required for individuals providing child-care services on a Department of Navy installation or in a DON-sanctioned program.

Responsibilities

Mentor CY Program Assistants; support their training, professional development, and application of training in practice.
Model appropriate behaviors and techniques for working with children and youth, and provide suggestions to credential practicum candidates.
Assist with recording observations and tracking team members’ on-the-job skills; consult with the Training and Curriculum Specialist on development strategies.
Plan, review, and implement activities and special events that address children’s and youth’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs.
Incorporate parent-provided instructions, including dietary or physical needs, and prepare program options for participants with special requirements.
Assist children and youth with special projects, homework, and life skills; recommend activity adjustments when needed.
Set up displays and bulletin boards, and arrange for or serve appropriate snacks or meals where applicable.
Prepare, arrange, maintain, and suggest improvements to indoor and outdoor activity areas and materials.
Inventory equipment and recommend replacement of damaged, missing, or depleted supplies; secure supplies, equipment, and facilities.
Encourage participant interest and positive interactions, using approved child guidance and youth development techniques.
Provide care, supervision, oversight, and accountability in accordance with applicable DoD, NAF, and local installation policies and standards.
Maintain control of and account for children’s and youths’ whereabouts and safety; oversee arrivals and departures and release participants only to authorized persons in accordance with written parental instructions.
Supervise children and youth during indoor and outdoor activities, field trips, outings, and special events.
Communicate professionally with employees, parents, school representatives, and local installation command personnel; participate in conferences and provide briefings.
Observe children and youth, document developmental progression or concerns, and use the information in planning; assist CY Program Assistants with assessment tasks when needed.
Ensure the assigned area meets and maintains DoD certification and national accreditation or equivalent standards, and complies with applicable laws, policies, and regulations.
Collect, maintain, and report program participation data.
Perform other related duties as assigned.