Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Part-time
Compensation
Salary
Range $9,600.00 - $12,000.00
Work Schedule
Rotating Shifts
Standard Hours
Benefits
Paid training
Monthly paycheck
Montgomery GI Bill
Federal tuition assistance
State tuition assistance
Retirement benefits
Low-Cost Life Insurance
401(k) savings plan
Student Loan Repayment Program
Health care benefits
VA home loans
Bonuses
Job Description
The Army National Guard is a vital component of the United States Army, providing essential support to both national defense and local emergencies. With a rich history of service and commitment to community safety and security, the National Guard offers unique opportunities for individuals to gain valuable experience, receive comprehensive training, and earn benefits while serving their country part-time. As a branch that combines military readiness with community-focused missions, the Guard ensures that Soldiers are prepared to respond to a variety of challenges, both at home and abroad.
The Food Service Specialist role within the Army National Guard is a crucial position responsible for maintaining the health and energy of fellow Soldiers through effective meal planning, preparation, and food service. Whether operating in a stationary facility or in the field, this role demands attention to detail, knowledge of proper nutrition, and adherence to stringent safety and sanitation standards. As a Food Service Specialist, you will be trained to operate and maintain field kitchen equipment, follow Army-sponsored recipes, and manage large-scale food preparation efforts for groups ranging from a few dozen to thousands of Soldiers.
This position involves not only cooking but also learning important logistics and management skills such as food and supply ordering, inventory control, and the storage of perishable goods. Training is comprehensive, beginning with 10 weeks of Basic Training to develop core Soldier skills, followed by nine weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT) focused on food service technical skills. This blend of classroom instruction and hands-on field experience equips recruits with the abilities needed to excel both in the military and in civilian culinary careers.
Joining the Army National Guard as a Food Service Specialist means you can earn a steady paycheck, qualify for tuition assistance and other educational benefits like the Montgomery GI Bill, while gaining skills that transfer to civilian careers in cooking, catering, meat cutting, baking, and more. The role is an excellent fit for individuals interested in cooking, health, and nutrition, as well as those who value discipline and service. Whether your career goals remain within the military or you plan to transition to civilian opportunities, this position offers a strong foundation and access to extensive benefits and support systems.
The Food Service Specialist role within the Army National Guard is a crucial position responsible for maintaining the health and energy of fellow Soldiers through effective meal planning, preparation, and food service. Whether operating in a stationary facility or in the field, this role demands attention to detail, knowledge of proper nutrition, and adherence to stringent safety and sanitation standards. As a Food Service Specialist, you will be trained to operate and maintain field kitchen equipment, follow Army-sponsored recipes, and manage large-scale food preparation efforts for groups ranging from a few dozen to thousands of Soldiers.
This position involves not only cooking but also learning important logistics and management skills such as food and supply ordering, inventory control, and the storage of perishable goods. Training is comprehensive, beginning with 10 weeks of Basic Training to develop core Soldier skills, followed by nine weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT) focused on food service technical skills. This blend of classroom instruction and hands-on field experience equips recruits with the abilities needed to excel both in the military and in civilian culinary careers.
Joining the Army National Guard as a Food Service Specialist means you can earn a steady paycheck, qualify for tuition assistance and other educational benefits like the Montgomery GI Bill, while gaining skills that transfer to civilian careers in cooking, catering, meat cutting, baking, and more. The role is an excellent fit for individuals interested in cooking, health, and nutrition, as well as those who value discipline and service. Whether your career goals remain within the military or you plan to transition to civilian opportunities, this position offers a strong foundation and access to extensive benefits and support systems.
Job Requirements
- Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
- Must be at least a junior in high school or have a high school diploma or GED certificate
- Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
- Must be able to pass a physical exam
- Must meet legal and moral standards
- Must meet citizenship requirements
Job Qualifications
- Interest in cooking, home economics, health, mathematics, accounting and chemistry
- Ability to follow detailed recipes and guidelines
- Strong attention to detail
- Good physical stamina
- Basic knowledge of nutrition
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment
Job Duties
- Bake, fry, braise, boil, simmer, steam and sauté as prescribed by Army recipes
- Operate, maintain and clean field kitchen equipment
- Perform preventive maintenance on garrison and field kitchen equipment
- Plan and prepare standard and dietetic menus
- Order food and supplies
- Store meats, poultry and other perishable items properly
- Ensure food safety and sanitation standards are met
Job Criteria
Experience
Entry Level (1-2 years)
Job Location
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