Cook Part-Time ( 20 Hours a Week)

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a federal agency dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services, benefits, and support to American veterans. Operating numerous medical centers, outpatient clinics, and community-based facilities across the nation, the VA is committed to honoring the sacrifices of those who have served by delivering high-quality care tailored to their unique needs. One such facility, the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in West Haven, Connecticut, is an integral part of this mission, with a focus on comprehensive patient-centered care that includes nutritional and food services. The Medical Center serves a diverse veteran population, offering inpatient and outpatient services, and relies heavily on its dedicated staff to maintain the highest standards of health, safety, and service.

This job opening is for a Part-time Cook position within the Nutrition and Food Service line at the West Haven VA Medical Center. Working 20 hours per week, the Cook position entails independent preparation of nutritious, high-quality meals for veteran patients. This role is essential to the overall patient care experience as it directly impacts nutrition and satisfaction. The Cook (WG-06) will prepare a variety of dishes, including regular and specialized therapeutic diets such as diabetic, low sodium, low protein, and gluten-free meals. Attention to detail is critical in this position to ensure food safety, proper sanitation, and timely service.

The role involves planning cooking processes to produce complete meals on schedule and at proper temperatures, often coordinating the preparation of multiple items with different cooking times. The Cook will operate a variety of kitchen equipment, including ovens, combi ovens/steamers, grills, slicers, mixers, steam kettles, blenders, food processors, and scales, following all safety guidelines. Responsibilities include covering, dating, and storing leftovers according to established policies, as well as performing thorough cleaning of kitchen areas and equipment. The Cook may assist with ordering food supplies in line with menu requirements, ensuring inventory is properly rotated and expired items discarded to maintain optimal food safety standards.

Physical demands of this position include continuous standing, walking, frequent bending, reaching, and lifting objects up to 40 pounds, often more with assistance. The work environment includes exposure to extreme temperatures, including hot kitchen areas and cold refrigeration units, as well as hazards such as cuts, burns, and loud noises. Proper use of protective equipment, adherence to sanitation regulations, and maintaining a clean uniform with hair covering are mandatory.

The position offers an hourly wage range of $26.39 to $30.77, based on the New Haven-Hartford, Connecticut Wage Area, with no promotion potential. It is a permanent part-time appointment within the competitive federal service and is represented by a union. The role requires U.S. citizenship and suitability for federal employment, including successful completion of a background investigation. Selective Service registration applies to males born after December 31, 1959. Applicants must complete a one-year probationary period, demonstrating their fitness and alignment with agency goals.

Ideal candidates will have experience or training in meal preparation within regulated environments, with a preference for those holding a current ServSafe Food Manager Certification. VA offers a comprehensive benefits package tailored to federal employees, enhancing job satisfaction and financial security. Commitment to supporting the veteran community and upholding the ideals of the U.S. government is essential for success in this role.