CYP Child and Youth Program Leader

Commander, Navy Installations Command•San Diego, CA

About The Position

The Child and Youth Program Leader provides specialized developmental care and instruction for children and youth from 6 weeks to 18 years of age in one or more Child and Youth programs. The role also provides guidance, assistance, and mentoring to Child and Youth Program Assistants. Routine assignments are generally performed independently, with technical assistance available from a supervisor as needed; assignments are spot-checked, and more technical work is reviewed closely for compliance with policies, procedures, and instructions. The Leader mentors and trains team members; plans and implements activities, events, and program options responsive to participants’ developmental needs; prepares indoor and outdoor activity environments; and uses approved child guidance and youth development techniques. The position supervises and accounts for children and youth during activities, outings, and transitions, communicates with parents and employees, observes and documents developmental progress, and helps ensure compliance with applicable DoD requirements, laws, policies, certification, and accreditation standards. Additional duties include reporting participation data and other related work as assigned.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Complete required training certificates and maintain certifications or credentials required by Federal, State, and/or national accreditation institutions used as part of DoD Child and Youth Programs.
Undergo pre-employment and random drug testing; a positive test or failure to submit for testing may result in removal from the position.
Pass a pre-employment physical, provide evidence of immunization, be free of communicable diseases, and obtain appropriate immunizations against communicable diseases.
Successfully pass E-Verify employment verification; resolve any discrepancies as a condition of employment.
Meet federal suitability requirements, including successful completion of a background investigation.
Have knowledge of developmentally appropriate programs for children and youth ages 6 weeks to 18 years and of child and youth development principles, practices, and techniques.
Have skills applying Federal and State laws governing detection and prevention of child abuse or neglect; understanding participant interests and motivation; and planning and organizing programs and employee schedules.
Have skills providing leadership, mentoring, and guidance to Child and Youth Program staff.
Be able to identify and respond to emergencies and train employees on topics including childhood illnesses and child abuse recognition.
Be able to develop curriculum outlines and lesson plans or guides.
Communicate effectively in English, orally and in writing, and have strong interpersonal skills.
Have 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.
Provide a copy of a high school diploma, GED, or college transcripts showing a degree awarded when applying.
Meet one of the stated education/training pathways: DoD Standardized Module Training and a high school diploma or equivalent; a CDA or MSA credential and a high school diploma or equivalent; or an awarded associate or higher degree in a listed or related education field. Additional high school diploma or equivalent documentation may be required in the circumstances stated in the posting.
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 assigned Child and Youth Program Assistant teams, model appropriate practices, support training, and assist the Training and Curriculum Specialist with observations and professional development.
Plan, review, and implement activities, special events, and program options that address children’s and youths’ physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs, including individual or special requirements.
Assist children and youth with projects, homework, and life skills; prepare displays and bulletin boards; and arrange or serve snacks or meals where applicable.
Prepare, arrange, secure, and maintain indoor and outdoor activity areas, materials, supplies, equipment, and facilities; inventory equipment and recommend replenishment or improvements.
Encourage participants’ interest and positive interactions, and interact with them using approved child guidance and youth development techniques.
Provide care, supervision, oversight, and accountability for participants in accordance with applicable DoD, NAF, and local installation policies and standards.
Maintain control of and account for participants’ whereabouts and safety; ensure authorized departures; oversee arrivals and departures; and supervise activities, field trips, outings, and special events.
Communicate professionally with employees, parents, school representatives, and local installation command personnel; participate in conferences and brief employees and parents.
Observe children and youth, document developmental progress or concerns, use observations in planning, and assist Program Assistants with assessment tasks as needed.
Ensure assigned areas meet DoD certification and national accreditation or equivalent standards, and comply with applicable laws, policies, and regulations.
Collect, maintain, and report program participation data; perform other related duties as assigned.