Food Service Worker

Jerry L Pettis Memorial Veterans Hospital, located in Loma Linda, California, is a distinguished healthcare facility dedicated to providing comprehensive medical services to veterans. As part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this hospital emphasizes high standards in patient care, support services, and community outreach. The hospital fosters a professional environment where staff members are committed to improving veterans’ health and well-being through excellence in their roles and collaboration across departments. With a focus on innovation and compassionate care, the hospital supports a variety of health services, ranging from acute care to rehabilitation and specialized treatments.

The Food Service Worker (FSW) position at Jerry L Pettis Memorial Veterans Hospital plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient food service operations within the medical center. This permanent, full-time role involves varied hours with rotating weekends and holidays, making flexibility a key aspect of the job. The salary range for this position is $22.86 to $26.66 per hour, correlating with the WG-3 pay grade. This role is not eligible for relocation or recruitment incentives, nor is it a telework or virtual position, emphasizing the importance of on-site presence to support patient care directly.

Food Service Workers at the hospital perform a series of operational tasks that contribute to the seamless functioning of food service areas. These duties involve preparation, serving, cleaning, and inventory management, ensuring that nutritional services are delivered timely and meet the required standards. The job demands attention to detail and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, handling duties ranging from setting up food stations to assisting cooks with ingredient preparation according to standardized recipes.

Specifically, Food Service Workers serve food cafeteria style, portioning meals for customers, patients, or residents, and assist in setting up dining areas and delivering meals, particularly to patients' bedsides. They also prepare beverages, fresh fruits, salads, sandwiches, and simple desserts. Beyond food preparation, the role encompasses essential cleaning duties such as washing dishes and utensils, separating recyclables from waste, and conducting heavy-duty cleaning throughout food service zones. These responsibilities ensure sanitary conditions consistent with hospital standards.

Qualified candidates are those who meet the U.S. citizenship requirement, are suitable for federal employment following background investigations, and pass drug screening protocols. Federal employment standards mandate a selective service registration for eligible males and completion of an online onboarding process, including valid identification forms. Candidates must be willing to serve a probationary period to evaluate their fitness and alignment with public service goals.

Experience requirements are flexible, focusing on demonstrable skills and competencies rather than formal education, which is not required for this role. Applicants’ resumes should clearly indicate relevant training or work experience, including volunteer roles that may contribute to skill development in food service or related functions. Candidates must pass a screen-out element concerning dexterity, safety, and technical practices, with an emphasis on working independently and following instructions accurately.

The hospital encourages applications from U.S. citizens and promotes a merit-based evaluation system. Veterans’ preference rules are adapted due to the use of Direct-Hire Authority, ensuring veterans receive full consideration. The application process is conducted online, with submission deadlines strictly enforced. Supporting documentation such as resumes and optional cover letters or certifications should accompany applications. The hospital stresses clear and detailed descriptions of experience to facilitate accurate assessment.

This job offers an opportunity to contribute to a respected federal health institution that values employee well-being alongside veteran care. Employees benefit from comprehensive federal benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, among others, tailored to the employment type and schedule. Working at the Jerry L Pettis Memorial Veterans Hospital means contributing to a mission of healing and service within a stable, career-oriented environment with opportunities for growth and fulfillment.