Cook

The Malcom Randall Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, located in Gainesville, FL, is a distinguished federal medical facility dedicated to providing exceptional care to Veteran patients. Within this center, the Nutrition and Food Service department plays a fundamental role in catering to the dietary and nutritional needs of the Veterans. This department ensures that every meal served is nutritious, of high quality, and tailored to meet the specialized dietary requirements of Veterans who rely on the medical center for their health and well-being. The center operates with a firm commitment to upholding the principles and values of serving those who served the country, making it a respected institution within the network of Veterans Affairs medical facilities nationwide. The VA Medical Center in Jacksonville, FL, where this position is located, extends these services with an emphasis on excellent patient nutrition and care.

The role of Cook within the Nutrition and Food Service department is essential in maintaining the quality and standards expected by the Medical Center. This full-time, permanent position carries a responsibility for independently preparing nutritious meals that meet the dietary needs of Veterans, including those on regular and modified diets. The Cook will be expected to handle various cooking techniques and complex recipes, including those requiring sous vide and combi-oven cooking. The role offers a salary range from $26.35 to $30.74 per hour, classified under the WG-8 pay scale, and does not offer promotion potential, indicating a specialized, skill-focused position.

Working hours for this position operate on a shift basis with schedules from 5:00 am to 1:30 pm and 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, including rotating weekends and holidays. The work environment demands physical stamina, given the need for continuous standing, frequent bending, walking, and the ability to lift and maneuver objects up to 40 pounds unassisted and sometimes heavier with assistance. The Cook will also be required to operate kitchen equipment safely and exhibit manual dexterity with kitchen tools and knives.

This role is not only critical from a culinary perspective but also from a leadership perspective as it may involve coordinating other cooks and overseeing standardized cooking operations across multiple work centers. The ideal candidate should be adept at preparing and presenting meals attractively while adhering to healthcare nutrition standards, further enhancing the meal experience for Veterans.

As a federal employment opportunity, the position includes thorough vetting, including background checks and drug screening, emphasizing the trusted nature of the workplace. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their proficiency and experience in culinary duties, with particular focus on safety, technical cooking practices, and independent work capabilities. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the well-being of Veterans and be part of a mission-driven federal agency focused on health and service excellence.