CYP Child and Youth Program Leader

Commander, Navy Installations Command•Monterey, CA

About The Position

The CYP Child and Youth Program Leader provides specialized developmental care and instruction for children and youth ages 6 weeks to 18 years 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 support available for complex or nonroutine matters; work is spot-checked or reviewed according to its technical complexity. The position supports developmentally appropriate programming, prepares and maintains activity environments, supervises participants, communicates with parents and employees, observes and documents developmental progress, and helps ensure compliance with Department of Defense, NAF, local installation, and applicable legal requirements. The incumbent may perform other related duties, and a complete list of duties will be provided at hire. Employment is conditional on required background checks, drug testing, E-Verify, a pre-employment physical and immunization requirements, and obtaining and maintaining any required security clearance, training certificates, certifications, or credentials. Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer enrollment is required within the first 30 days. A one-year probationary period may be required.

Requirements

  • 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.
  • Ability to apply Federal and State laws governing the detection and prevention of child abuse and neglect.
  • Skill in understanding interests and motivation of individuals and groups in a CYP environment.
  • Skill in program planning, organizing, and employee scheduling.
  • Ability to provide leadership, mentoring, and guidance to CY Program Assistants.
  • Ability to identify and respond to emergency situations.
  • Ability to train employees on topics including childhood illness recognition and child abuse identification.
  • Ability to develop curriculum outlines and lesson plans or guides.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, orally and in writing, and possess strong interpersonal skills.
  • One year of experience at the CY-02 (GSE-04) level or equivalent, demonstrating knowledge and competency in developmentally appropriate programming for children and youth.
  • Meet one of the stated education and experience pathways: DoD Standardized Module Training plus 12 months of experience at the CY-II (GSE-04) level; a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential plus that experience; or a qualifying two-year degree plus that experience.
  • Provide a copy of a high school diploma, GED, or college transcripts showing an awarded degree when applying. Applicants whose degree has not been awarded, or who rely on specified training-course certificates or CDA/MSA credentials, must also provide a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Consent to pre-employment and random drug testing and satisfactorily complete required child-care background checks, including fingerprint checks, a Tier 1 with Child Care check, a State Criminal History Repository check, and the applicable Installation Records Check.
  • Successfully pass E-Verify employment verification and resolve any discrepancies as a condition of employment.
  • Pass a pre-employment physical, provide evidence of immunization, be free of communicable diseases, and obtain appropriate immunizations.
  • Obtain and maintain an appropriate security clearance if required.
  • Complete required training certificates and maintain certifications or credentials required by Federal, State, or national accreditation institutions used by DoD Child and Youth Programs.
  • Participate in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer within the first 30 days of employment.

Responsibilities

  • Mentor CY Program Assistants, model appropriate practices, support standardized module training, and assist with professional development and on-the-job skills observations.
  • Plan, review, and implement activities and special events that address the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of children and youth.
  • Incorporate parent-provided instructions and individual needs into programming, including special dietary or physical requirements, and prepare program options for participants with special requirements.
  • Assist children and youth with projects, homework, and life skills; recommend adjustments to plans and activities when needed.
  • Set up displays and bulletin boards, arrange appropriate snacks or meals where applicable, and help prepare, arrange, and maintain indoor and outdoor activity spaces and materials.
  • Recommend improvements to activity areas, inventory equipment, recommend replacement of damaged or depleted supplies, and 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 policies and standards; maintain control of and account for participants' whereabouts and safety.
  • Ensure children and youth leave with authorized persons according to written parental instructions, oversee arrivals and departures, and supervise activities, field trips, outings, and special events.
  • Communicate professionally with employees, parents, and 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 CY Program Assistants with assessment tasks as needed.
  • Ensure the assigned area meets and maintains 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.
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service