Program Associate (Pre-Kindergarten) NF-03

Summary

This position is located at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD.

Child and Youth Services (CYS) Employee Childcare Fee applicable to employees working at least 15 hours per week :

• First Child: 100% childcare fee discount (all CYS employees)
• Second and Subsequent Child: 25% childcare fee discount (all CYS employees)

Incentives and Bonuses

• Incentives will not be paid.

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Duties

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• Serves as a Pre-Kindergarten Program Associate in the CYS Services Strong Beginnings Pre-K Program.
• Motivates children to develop "Kindergarten Etiquette" skills, knowledge and behaviors that build a strong foundation for school success such as taking turns, raising hands, walking in a line, etc.
• Provides supervision, oversight, and accountability for children in compliance with DoD, Army and local policies, guidance, and standards.
• Works with the School Liaison Officer and school officials to ensure a smooth and successful transition to Kindergarten.
• Completes designated training requirements and tracks and records training on own Individual Development Plan (IDP).

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

• Direct Deposit and Social Security Card is required.
• Meet qualification/eligibility/background requirements for this position.
• A one-year probationary period may be required.
• Satisfactorily complete an employment verification (E-Verify) check.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of appointment.
• Subject to satisfactory completion of all pre-employment checks in accordance with AR 215-3, para.2 to include a Child Care Tier 1 background investigation.
• Must complete a health assessment.
• Successful completion of prescribed training (transition and/or annual) is required.

Qualifications

The original closing date of 06/16/2026 has been extended.

Resumes must be two pages (or less). Resumes should clearly demonstrate the applicant's relevant experience, skills, knowledge and abilities as they pertain to this position.

A qualified candidate must possess the following:

- Meet Target-level requirements and satisfactory performance.

- Possess eighteen (18) months experience working in a group program with children and/or youth.

- Possess and maintain a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age Credential.

OR

-Meet Entry -level requirements.- Possess twelve (12) months experience working in a group program with children and/or youth.

- Possess AA degree with major emphasis in early childhood education or child development.

OR

-Meet Entry -level requirements.

- Possess BA/BS degree with a major emphasis in early childhood education, Elementary Education, Child Development, Home Economics, Special Education or related behavioral sciences.

In addition to the above qualifications, candidates who possess the following qualifications will be considered "Highly Preferred" or "Best Qualified" :

Experience working as a Lead Child and Youth Program Assistant, Child and Youth Program Technician, or Child and Youth Program Assistant (Target Level - 4) is highly preferred.

Education

Proof of education is required at the time of application.

Additional information

The original closing date of 06/02/2026 has been extended.

Area of Consideration

• This job is open to candidates who live within a 60- mile radius of Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. (Military Spouse Preference (MSP) and Involuntarily Separated Military Preference (ISMP) eligible candidates are included in the area of consideration.)

Manual Application Option

• If you are unable to apply online, you can complete a paper application. To get started, contact servicing NAF Human Resources representative or office listed in the Agency Contact Information section (at the bottom of this announcement) to request a copy of the application form.
• Be sure to submit your completed application form, along with your resume and any required supporting documents, no later than 3:00PM CST on 06/23/2026 to ensure timely processing.
• Important: Incomplete applications, including missing responses to questionnaire items may result in an ineligible rating.

PCS Costs

• Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government's interest.

Allowances and Differentials

• This job is part of a pay-banded system. Sunday premium pay for regularly scheduled employees and night differential pay may be authorized by the Garrison Commander.

Important Information Regarding Access to Certain Federal Facilities:

• Access to certain federal facilities may require a REAL ID-compliant driver's license/ID (marked with a star) or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) from WA, MI, MN, NY, or VT. See for details.

Your Application may be Considered for Multiple Opportunities :

• After you apply, your application remains valid for 90 days and may be referred to hiring officials as new vacancies arise. Additional referrals may occur for up to 90 days after the closing date.
• This announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies throughout the program. Management has the right to assign staff to locations as mission requires.

Discover Your Path to Success

• Before you apply, take a moment to explore our Applicant Information Kit, your go-to guide for understanding our hiring processes and making your application stand out.
• Inside you will find helpful tips, insights, and everything you need to feel confident and prepared.
• Click this URL to view the kit:

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

Help

Working for Army Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) can offer numerous advantages. Army NAF employment can provide a sense of pride and fulfillment, as you'll be supporting communities comprised of military and civilian personnel, and their families, which contributes to the Department of Defense's overall mission. We offer a wide range of career opportunities, including jobs in childcare, recreation, hospitality, and more. Many employees have opportunities for professional development, including training, education, and certification programs to help towards career advancement. As an Army NAF employee, you'll have access to some on-base facilities, including fitness centers, libraries, and many other amenities.

Regular full-time and part-time employees are eligible for enrollment in health and life insurance, participation in 401k and retirement plans, and paid personal time off and federal holidays. NAF flexible employees, working in the United States or a U.S. citizen or spouse or child of a U.S. citizen working for a NAFI in a foreign area, are eligible to participate in the NAF 401(k) plan. Some flexible employees may also be eligible to receive health insurance.

For a slideshow presentation regarding these benefits, please click the Review Our Benefits link below.

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