About Workwarp and the Federal Child & Youth Programs
Workwarp partners with the United States Department of the Air Force to deliver exceptional Child and Youth Programs (CYP) across the nation. Our mission is to create safe, nurturing, and development‑rich environments where children from infancy through high school can thrive while their parents serve our country. As a remote‑first employer, we blend cutting‑edge technology with a deep respect for the unique challenges of military families, offering flexible work arrangements, competitive pay, and a supportive community of professionals dedicated to youth development.
Position Overview
The Child & Youth Program Assistant – Leader Level is a pivotal role within the School Age Center at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Reporting to the Program Supervisor, you will lead a team of program staff, oversee daily operations, and ensure the safety and well‑being of children ranging from six weeks to 18 years old. This remote‑enabled position combines hands‑on supervision, program planning, and compliance oversight while allowing you to work from home, traveling to the base only as required for in‑person duties and special events.
Key Responsibilities
- Team Leadership: Supervise, mentor, and evaluate a team of program assistants, ensuring staff adhere to the Air Force Child & Youth Program (CY) policies and maintain required staff‑to‑child ratios.
- Safety & Security: Assume full accountability for the whereabouts, safety, and security of all participants; conduct daily headcounts, monitor arrival/departure procedures, and enforce emergency protocols.
- Program Delivery: Design, coordinate, and execute indoor and outdoor activities, field trips, and special events that address the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of each age group.
- Individualized Support: Identify and respond to the unique needs of children with special requirements, collaborating with therapists, teachers, and families to tailor program options.
- Parent & Community Engagement: Host regular conferences, provide progress updates, and facilitate parental involvement opportunities, maintaining open, professional communication.
- Resource Management: Maintain inventory of equipment, supplies, and instructional materials; recommend replenishment and oversee proper storage and sanitation.
- Compliance & Documentation: Collect, track, and report participation data; ensure program meets Department of Defense (DoD) certification standards and national accreditation criteria.
- Training & Development: Conduct on‑the‑job training for new staff, deliver guidance on child‑guidance techniques, and model best practices in safety, nutrition, and health protocols.
- Conflict Resolution: Address and mediate behavioral issues, staff concerns, and parent inquiries; seek supervisor guidance when necessary.
- Emergency Management: Act as the on‑site manager during non‑routine or emergency situations, including facility opening/closing, transportation of children, and coordination with local authorities.
Essential Qualifications
- Minimum age of 18 years with a high school diploma or equivalent.
- One year of experience at the CY03 level or a comparable federal child‑youth program position.
- Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education, Youth Development, or a related field or a current Child Development Associate (CDA) or Youth Development credential.
- Ability to speak, read, and write fluent English.
- Physical ability to lift at least 40 lb, stand for extended periods, and meet all required immunizations (including annual influenza vaccination).
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record (required when transporting children).
- Successful completion of a Tier 1 Child Care background investigation, pre‑employment physical, and mandatory drug testing.
- Food Handler’s Certificate (or ability to obtain one within the specified timeframe).
Preferred Qualifications & Experience
- Experience working in a federal or military child‑care setting, especially with youth up to 18 years.
- Certification in First Aid/CPR, child‑safety, or youth counseling.
- Demonstrated success in leading diverse teams, managing budgets, and preparing program evaluations.
- Familiarity with DoD, Air Force, and Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) standards.
- Experience planning and executing large‑scale field trips, outdoor adventure programs, or special events for youth.
- Knowledge of trauma‑informed care, inclusive practices for children with disabilities, and cultural competency.
Core Competencies & Skills
- Leadership & Supervision: Ability to inspire, guide, and develop a team while maintaining accountability and high morale.
- Communication: Strong verbal and written skills for interacting with parents, staff, and senior leadership; adept at delivering clear instructions and constructive feedback.
- Organizational Skills: Excellent time‑management, scheduling, and record‑keeping abilities to handle multiple activities and compliance documentation.
- Problem‑Solving: Quick, sound decision‑making in routine and emergency scenarios, with a focus on child safety.
- Adaptability: Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities, including occasional weekend or evening coverage.
- Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with digital scheduling tools, data‑entry software, and virtual collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, SharePoint).
- Empathy & Patience: Genuine passion for child development, with the ability to remain calm, supportive, and encouraging under pressure.
Career Development & Learning Opportunities
Workwarp invests in the professional growth of its staff. As a Child & Youth Program Assistant – Leader Level, you will have access to a suite of development resources, including:
- Annual tuition reimbursement for advanced certifications in Early Childhood Education or Youth Services.
- Mentorship programs pairing you with senior program managers from across the Air Force network.
- On‑site and virtual workshops covering topics such as trauma‑informed care, inclusive programming, and leadership excellence.
- Opportunities to lead special projects, propose new program initiatives, and contribute to policy development.
- Clear pathways to higher grades (e.g., CY‑04, CY‑05) and supervisory roles within the Department of the Air Force MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) structure.
Work Environment & Culture
Although this role is primarily remote, you will be embedded within a mission‑oriented, values‑driven community. Our culture emphasizes:
- Service to Country: Every day, we support military families, reinforcing the nation’s defense by caring for its youngest members.
- Collaboration: Cross‑functional teams share best practices, celebrate successes, and solve challenges together.
- Inclusivity: We honor diversity, ensuring that children of all backgrounds receive respectful, equitable care.
- Flexibility: Remote work options, flexible scheduling, and occasional travel allowances accommodate personal and family needs.
- Well‑Being: Comprehensive wellness initiatives, mental‑health resources, and a supportive leadership team help you maintain a healthy work‑life balance.
Compensation, Perks, & Benefits
Workwarp offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $22.01 to $26.47 based on experience, education, and certifications. In addition to the base salary, eligible employees receive a robust benefits package that typically includes:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
- Retirement savings plans (Thrift Savings Plan) with government matching contributions.
- Generous paid time off, holidays, and sick leave.
- Child‑care fee discounts for staff (100 % discount for the first child, 25 % for additional children) when enrolled in the Department of the Air Force Child Development Program.
- Life insurance, accidental death & disability coverage, and access to the federal Employee Assistance Program.
- Transportation or mileage reimbursements for required travel to Eielson Air Force Base.
- Professional development funds, tuition assistance, and certification support.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted online from September 27 2023 through October 27 2023. The selection process includes a review of qualifications, a structured interview, and a background investigation. Applications are pulled every Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. until the position is filled. To be considered, please submit a detailed resume, cover letter, and any supporting documentation (certificates, transcripts, etc.) that demonstrate how you meet both the essential and preferred qualifications.
All applicants must be able to complete the required pre‑employment checks, including a Tier 1 background investigation, drug testing, and proof of current immunizations. Successful candidates will be required to obtain a Food Handler’s Certificate and may be subject to periodic random drug testing.
Take the Next Step
If you are passionate about nurturing the next generation of leaders, enjoy guiding teams, and thrive in a mission‑focused environment, we invite you to join our dedicated community. Apply today and become an integral part of a program that makes a lasting impact on the lives of military children and their families.
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