The U.S. Air Force is hiring Air Force Youth Program Specialist 2026 under Direct Hire Authority for post-secondary students and recent graduates. Learn eligibility, duties, requirements, benefits, salary, and how to apply before the 28 September 2026 deadline.

Overview: Youth Program Specialist (GS-7) – Air Force Materiel Command

The Department of the Air Force is recruiting Youth Program Specialists (GS-7) through its Direct Hire Authority (DHA) for Post-Secondary Students and Recent Graduates. This full-time internship is part of the PALACE Acquire Program, designed to train and develop early-career professionals for long-term civilian careers in youth development, education, and community programming.

The position provides structured developmental assignments, a formal training plan, promotions upon successful completion, and a pathway to permanent federal employment.

Positions are available at locations including:

• Edwards Air Force Base, California
• Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio

This role is ideal for graduates with backgrounds in education, youth services, child development, sports management, social sciences, or related fields.

Duties and Responsibilities

Youth Program Specialists support the planning, management, and delivery of Air Force youth programs. Key duties include:

Program Development & Delivery

• Assist in designing, planning, and implementing youth programs that support social, emotional, physical, and academic development.
• Apply professional education principles and youth behavioral knowledge to program activities.

Youth Center Operations

• Support the Youth Center Director in maintaining safe, healthy, age-appropriate environments in facilities, playgrounds, and sports fields.
• Monitor safety, maintenance, and facility conditions.

Funds & Administrative Support

• Assist the Youth Center Director with managing appropriated funds (APF), non-appropriated funds (NAF), and other revenue sources.
• Complete assigned administrative and developmental tasks in alignment with the trainee development plan.

Special Projects

• Perform special assignments as part of the PALACE Acquire structured training program.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following:

General Requirements

• U.S. citizenship
• Selective Service registration (males born after 12/31/1959)
• Must meet suitability for federal employment
• Mobility requirement: relocation may be required
• Ability to work nights, weekends, or holidays if program needs require it
• Must obtain and maintain required certifications (CPR, First Aid, Food Handler certification)

Pathway Eligibility

This public notice is open to:

• Current post-secondary students (enrolled full-time and in good standing; completed at least one year of study)
• Recent graduates (degree earned within the last 2 years; up to 6 years for veterans)
• U.S. citizens, nationals, or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Qualification Requirements (GS-7 Level)

Applicants must meet one of the following:

1. One year of graduate-level education

OR

2. Bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement (SAA)

SAA may be met through:

• Upper third of graduating class, OR
• GPA of 2.95 overall (or during the final 2 years), OR
• 3.45 GPA in major field, OR
• Membership in an approved national scholastic honor society

OR

3. Five academic years of pre-professional study

OR

4. One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-5

Experience must demonstrate:

• Knowledge of youth behavior, development, and education
• Ability to plan and support youth programs
• Analytical skills, communication skills, and ability to solve problems

Volunteer experience (Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, community programs) is creditable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Understanding of childhood development and educational principles
• Ability to plan and conduct youth and sports programs
• Skill in written and oral communication
• Ability to analyze problems and propose solutions
• Ability to organize work and collaborate effectively
• Understanding of safety, youth supervision, and program standards

Benefits

Youth Program Specialists receive:

• GS-7 salary (varies by location, approx. $51,821–$112,053 annually)
• Participation in the PALACE Acquire Program
  • Three-year structured training plan
  • Annual salary increases
  • Promotion potential up to GS-11
  • Permanent placement after successful completion
• Professional development and career mentorship
• Federal employee benefits package:
  • Health insurance
  • Retirement programs
  • Paid leave
  • Training opportunities
• Possible student loan repayment
• Childcare fee discounts for eligible childcare employees

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Resume (maximum 2 pages)
  • Must include hours per week, dates (MM/YYYY), duties
  • Must include your name
• Transcripts (unofficial accepted for application)
• Application Questionnaire
• Veterans’ documents (if claiming preference)
• Licenses or certifications (if required)
• Active-duty certification memo (for military applicants)

Incomplete applications will be marked ineligible.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 28 September 2026.

Step-by-Step

1. Go to the official application link:
   https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12796017
2. Sign in or create a USAJOBS account
3. Upload your two-page resume and required documents
4. Complete the questionnaire
5. Submit the full application package before the deadline

You may apply to multiple locations using the same announcement.

Summary Table | Air Force Youth Program Specialist 2026

Conclusion

The Youth Program Specialist (GS-7) role is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates and current students who want to build long-term careers in youth development, education, and federal service. With structured training, promotion potential, and a pathway to permanent Air Force civilian employment, this position offers strong professional growth, hands-on experience, and a stable federal career path.

APPLY NOW

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