Culinary Specialist

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Part-time
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Compensation

Type:
Salary
Rate:
Range $36,000.00 - $48,400.00
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Benefits

Comprehensive Healthcare
Vision Insurance
Dental Insurance
30 days paid vacation
90 days paid paternity and maternity vacation
Wellness programs including fitness facility access, nutrition consulting, and curated fitness plans
Housing allowance
clothing allowance
Relocation allowance
Tuition Assistance
Student loan repayment
Flexible retirement plans
pension plans

Job Description

The U.S. Army offers a vast array of career opportunities and is dedicated to helping individuals build a meaningful future, whether through career advancement, continuing education, or starting a family. As an established organization with a long-standing tradition of service, the U.S. Army provides a structured and supportive environment for personal growth and professional development. Embracing the motto "Be All You Can Be," the Army encourages recruits to improve themselves while contributing to a larger mission that benefits the nation. With openings for both full-time and part-time positions, the Army is actively seeking motivated individuals to join its ranks and embark on a rewarding career path.Show More
The role of Culinary Specialist within the U.S. Army is designed for aspiring culinary enthusiasts eager to develop essential skills required for success in various culinary fields. This position involves acquiring expertise in diverse cooking techniques, catering, hospitality services, inventory management, and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. The Culinary Specialist role is ideal for those passionate about food preparation and culinary arts, combining hands-on experience with formal, paid training programs.

Candidates will attend a comprehensive 19-week paid training program, which covers key competencies such as menu planning, catering, expert cooking techniques, culinary art design, food preparation and storage, inventory control, sanitation standards, forecasting, food inspection, and temperature control points. The program ensures that participants are fully equipped with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to support the Army's food service operations effectively. Importantly, candidates' prior job experience may qualify them for a reduced training timeline and faster promotion opportunities, while advanced certifications are available through additional fully funded training programs.

The Army offers competitive compensation and numerous benefits that prioritize the health, wellbeing, and professional growth of its culinary specialists. These benefits include comprehensive healthcare, vision, and dental plans, generous paid vacation of up to 30 days, and 90 days of paid paternity and maternity leave. The wellness programs extend beyond healthcare by offering access to fitness facilities, nutrition consulting, and personalized fitness plans. Additional support is provided through housing, clothing, and relocation allowances, tuition assistance, student loan repayment options, and flexible retirement and pension plans.

Entry-level pay and promotion rates vary depending on the individual's education level and qualifications, with opportunities for hiring bonuses, specialty bonuses, and guaranteed promotion pathways. Upon completion of the initial contract term, Culinary Specialists are guaranteed up to five interviews with over 1,200 leading industry organizations, such as Tyson Foods, Pepsi Co, and Smithfield Foods, which opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities beyond military service. Related career fields include positions such as Sous Chef, Head Cook, and Food Preparation Worker, offering diverse pathways for culinary professionals to advance their expertise and leadership skills.

Joining the U.S. Army as a Culinary Specialist not only offers a chance to gain exceptional training and career development but also provides the opportunity to contribute to a vital component of military operations — feeding and sustaining personnel with nutritious and expertly prepared meals. This role combines discipline, creativity, and service, making it an ideal path for individuals passionate about the culinary arts and eager to serve their country while building a strong professional foundation.Show Less

Job Requirements

  • Attend a 19-week paid training program
  • Successfully complete all training modules and certifications
  • Demonstrate physical fitness and ability to perform food service duties
  • Obtain necessary security clearances as required
  • Willingness to work flexible hours and adapt to various food service environments
  • Pass medical and background checks
  • Meet age and citizenship eligibility criteria for U.S. Army enlistment

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous experience in cooking or food preparation preferred but not required
  • Strong interest in culinary arts and food service
  • Ability to successfully complete the 19-week paid training program
  • Good teamwork and communication skills
  • Commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety
  • Willingness to adhere to military discipline and protocols

Job Duties

  • Attend a 19-week paid training program to gain skills and certifications in menu planning, catering, expert cooking techniques, culinary art design, food preparation, food storage, inventory, sanitation standards, forecasting, food inspection, food quality standards, cleanness standards, station establishment, hospitality services, and temperature control point
  • Use acquired culinary skills to prepare diverse and nutritious meals
  • Manage catering operations and provide hospitality services in support of military functions
  • Oversee inventory management to ensure food supplies are adequately stocked and maintained
  • Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation in all food preparation areas
  • Comply with all food inspection protocols and ensure adherence to food quality and safety standards
  • Collaborate with team members to establish food service stations and optimize workflow

Job Location

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