kandidatu USA

Program Associate (Pre-Kindergarten) NF-03

United States Army Installation Management Command · Department of the Army

This job in plain English

This job is a permanent, full-time Pre-Kindergarten Program Associate at the Child Development Center at Fort Drum, New York. It is with the Army's Child and Youth Services (CYS) program, which is part of the Army's non-appropriated funds (NAF) system, meaning it is not paid from regular tax-funded appropriations. The announcement lists only a few vacancies and occasional travel.

Few vacancies

It may close early. Eligible applicants will be sent to management on a cut-off date of October 15, 2026, which is earlier than the November 9, 2026 closing date.

Can you apply?

Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen: this job is open to everyone.

  • Open to everyoneAny U.S. citizen or national can apply. Some jobs also accept non-citizens; the announcement says so.

This job is open to U.S. citizens, non-U.S. nationals, and people who owe allegiance to the U.S. Agency clarification: U.S. citizens and non-U.S. nationals who have lived in the U.S. or a U.S. territory for at least 3 continuous years before federal service, and who now live within the local commuting area (100-mile radius) of Fort Drum.

What you would do

  • Serves as a Pre-Kindergarten Program Associate in the Services Strong Beginnings Pre-K Program.
  • Motivates children to build kindergarten skills, such as taking turns, raising hands and walking in a line.
  • Provides supervision and oversight of children under DoD, Army and local rules.
  • Works with the School Liaison Officer and school officials for a smooth move to kindergarten.
  • Completes required training and records it in an Individual Development Plan (IDP).

Do you qualify for NF-3?

With experience: Target level: 18 months of experience working in a group program with children or youth, plus a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age Credential. Entry level: 12 months of experience working in a group program with children or youth, plus a degree listed below.

With education: Entry level requires an AA degree with a major in early childhood education or child development, or a BA/BS with a major in early childhood education, elementary education, child development, home economics, special education or a related behavioral science. The entry-level option lists both the 12 months of experience and the degree. Education only counts from schools accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Proof of education is required at the time of application.

Licenses and certifications you need:

  • Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age Credential (for target level)

How to apply well

What to send:

  • Resume, two pages or less, showing relevant experience with children or youth (required)
  • Proof of education, such as diploma, GED or transcripts, and CDA if claimed (required at application)
  • Cover letter, references or letters of recommendation (accepted, optional)
  • DD-214 or Statement of Service, if claiming veterans' preference
  • Proof of marriage status or PCS orders, if claiming military spouse preference

How you will be rated: Your online questionnaire answers, resume and supporting documents are reviewed against the qualifications. Incomplete applications, including missing questionnaire answers, may receive an ineligible rating. Applicants with experience as a Lead CYS Program Assistant, CYS Program Technician, or CYS Program Assistant (Target Level 4) are rated Highly Preferred or Best Qualified.

Tips for this job:

  • Keep your resume to two pages or less and clearly show your experience working with children or youth.
  • Upload proof of education, such as transcripts or a diploma, with your application, since it is required at the time of application.
  • Only education from accredited schools counts, so check your school's accreditation before you list it.

Good to know before you apply

Schedule: Regular full-time, with a minimum workweek of 40 hours. Sunday premium pay and night differential may be authorized by the Garrison Commander.

Incentives and relocation: Incentives will not be paid. CYS employees (regular, or flexible working at least 15 hours) get a childcare fee discount: 100% for the first child and 25% for second and later children.

Conditions of employment:

  • Direct deposit and Social Security card required
  • Must meet qualification, eligibility and background requirements
  • One-year probationary period may be required
  • E-Verify employment check
  • Must be at least 18 years old at appointment
  • Pre-employment checks under AR 215-3, including a Child Care Tier 1 background investigation
  • Must complete a health assessment
  • Must complete required transition and annual training
  • Some federal facilities may require a REAL ID-compliant or enhanced driver's license

We wrote this summary automatically from the official announcement. The announcement on USAJOBS is the only one that counts: read it before you apply.

Job details

Salary
$43,370 – $52,957 per year
Pay scale and grade
NF-3 · Nonappropriated fund
Location
Fort Drum, New York
Appointment
Permanent
Work schedule
Full-time
Service
Competitive
Openings
Few
Security clearance
Not Required
Travel
Occasional travel
Drug test
Not required
Supervisory
No
Occupation
Education And Training Technician (1702)
Announcement
C2SCNAFCY-26-13065209

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