Culinary Specialist

Sioux Falls, SD, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $34,800.00 - $46,800.00
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Work Schedule

Rotating Shifts
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Benefits

health coverage
retirement plans
educational assistance
Bonuses
Paid Time Off
Training and Development
Housing allowance

Job Description

The United States Navy is a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces dedicated to maintaining maritime security, freedom of navigation, and global naval presence. The Navy operates a variety of vessels, aircraft, and shore facilities worldwide to support its mission of national defense. It is known for its rigorous training programs, advanced technology, and commitment to excellence. Enlisting in the Navy offers individuals a chance to serve their country, develop in-demand skills, and work within a diverse and disciplined team both at sea and on shore.

The Culinary Specialist position is a vital role within the Navy that combines culinary expertise with leadership and operational skills. Culinary Specialists operate and manage Navy dining and lodging services, ensuring that all personnel have access to nutritious, appealing meals to sustain morale and readiness. This role includes planning menus, preparing meals, managing inventory and financial records, and maintaining high standards of food safety and sanitation. Culinary Specialists work in various environments, from large ship galleys to small executive dining rooms, adapting to the unique demands of each venue.

This job is fast-paced and requires a hands-on approach to food preparation and service, with responsibilities extending to supporting high-profile executive dining events and flight food service when assigned. Culinary Specialists play a key part in the overall wellbeing of Navy crews by providing high quality nutritional support consistent with rigorous sanitation and safety standards. The role supports both afloat and ashore operations, making it essential to naval missions and daily life on board.

Individuals in this position will undergo comprehensive training, including Recruit Training followed by specialized schooling in culinary skills, food preparation, baking, and records management. The training equips Sailors with the expertise necessary to excel in both team-oriented and individual tasks. Career progression is structured, with opportunities to advance through ranks such as watch captain and leading Culinary Specialist, and to participate in special duty programs like Executive Services and Instructor duty.

The employment type is military enlisted service within the U.S. Navy, with salary and benefits determined according to Navy pay scales, allowances, and service policies. Benefits include access to health coverage, retirement plans, educational assistance, and potential bonuses. The Culinary Specialist pathway offers good prospects for passionate individuals interested in culinary arts within a disciplined, team-focused military environment. This role is ideal for those who thrive in dynamic, high-pressure settings and seek a career that combines technical culinary skills with leadership and service to the nation.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • eligibility to serve in the United States Navy
  • ability to meet medical, vision, and dental requirements
  • ability to pass background screening and character standards
  • meeting age limits defined by Navy policy
  • passing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery or equivalent
  • ability to work in a fast paced kitchen environment
  • capability to follow food safety and sanitation protocols
  • physical fitness to meet Navy standards
  • willingness to work rotating schedules and deploy globally

Job Qualifications

  • Eligibility to serve in the United States Navy
  • a high school diploma or equivalent for enlisted positions
  • meeting age limits set in law and Navy policy
  • meeting medical, vision, and dental standards
  • meeting character and conduct standards including background screening
  • achieving required test scores such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery
  • eligibility for a security clearance when required
  • team orientation with good communication and customer service skills
  • solid arithmetic and record keeping ability for inventory and financial management
  • interest in culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety
  • attention to detail and ability to follow recipes, portioning, and sanitation procedures
  • ability to meet Navy enlistment standards and work safely in hot and fast paced galley environments

Job Duties

  • Plan menus and order subsistence
  • prepare and serve meals in galleys, mess decks, and wardrooms
  • manage storerooms, inventories, and financial records
  • operate and maintain kitchen and dining spaces
  • lead food production teams and supervise sanitation and food safety
  • support executive dining services and protocol events
  • perform in flight food service duties when assigned

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


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