Cook

The American Lake VA Medical Center, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a prestigious healthcare facility dedicated to serving the needs of Veterans with exemplary medical care and supportive services. As part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this medical center is known for its commitment to veterans' health and well-being, offering a broad range of specialized programs and treatments. The center emphasizes a patient-centered approach that ensures veterans receive the highest quality of care in a compassionate and respectful environment. With a strong focus on innovation and community outreach, the American Lake VA Medical Center plays a pivotal role in improving the lives of veterans across the region.

This job opening is for a Cook position within the Nutrition and Food Services department at the American Lake VA Medical Center. The Cook role is classified as WG-4 and involves preparing nutritious, high-quality meals for veterans. This is a full-time, permanent position with a working schedule that includes various shifts to be discussed during the interview process. The position offers an hourly wage range of $26.18 to $30.51, reflecting its status within the federal wage system. The Cook will work standing, walking, bending, and lifting as part of their daily duties, ensuring that food preparation and kitchen operations adhere to strict standards of sanitation and safety.

The role of Cook at this facility is essential to supporting the health and wellness of veterans by delivering meals that meet their dietary needs, including regular and modified diets. Responsibilities include measuring and assembling ingredients, preparing and heating convenience foods, operating various kitchen equipment, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. The cook must also follow menus and production sheets precisely, ensure proper food storage, and apply sanitation principles to prevent food spoilage and waste. This position demands a person with manual dexterity, the ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and tools, and a strong commitment to adhering to health and safety protocols.

Beyond food preparation, the Cook will also engage in detailed cleaning duties such as sanitizing work areas and equipment, operating industrial dishwashers, and disassembling/reassembling equipment for cleaning. This role supports the overall mission of the American Lake VA Medical Center by ensuring that each meal is prepared safely and meets the dietary requirements of its veteran patients. Working within a federal healthcare setting, the Cook must also comply with all federal employment requirements including background checks, selective services registration, and onboarding processes. This role offers a unique opportunity for candidates who are passionate about serving the veteran community and advancing their careers in a federal environment with robust benefits and a commitment to employee well-being.