Food Service Worker

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is part of a nationwide network dedicated to providing exceptional health care services to Veterans and their families. As a federal agency, the VA stands out for its commitment to integrity, respect, and excellence in service, offering a supportive and mission-driven work environment. The Nutrition & Food Service department at this VA Medical Center plays a crucial role in enhancing the health and well-being of Veterans by ensuring nutritious, safe, and appropriate meals are provided according to medical needs and dietary requirements. This department adheres to the VA core values summarized as I CARE: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. These principles govern not only patient care but the collaborative work culture within which all employees thrive.

The Food Service Worker (WG-3) position at the Murfreesboro VA Medical Center is a full-time, permanent role with a competitive pay scale of $19.26 to $22.47 per hour under the WG-3 Federal Wage grade. This role reports directly to the Nutrition & Food Service department and demands an individual who can operate with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards in food preparation, delivery, sanitation, and compliance with dietary instructions. The WG-3 Food Service Worker is a pivotal member of the food service team, demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of food handling, modified diets, and sanitation principles. This role requires responsibility for preparing fresh fruits, cold salads, dressings, sandwich fillings, cold sandwiches, simple desserts, and boxed to-go meals, all while utilizing proper serving utensils and dishware. The worker is tasked with identifying discrepancies between prescribed diets and menu items and ensuring that dietary restrictions are honored precisely.

This role demands physical stamina and the ability to work in environments subject to high heat and humidity typical of kitchen settings. The employee will frequently stand, walk, stoop, reach, push, pull, or bend and occasionally lift items weighing up to or over 40 pounds with assistance. Beyond food preparation, duties also include cleaning food stations and equipment, separating food waste, storing sanitized utensils, and delivering meal trays. Working hours are from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM on a static schedule, with assigned days off determined during onboarding. This Food Service Worker role is non-supervisory but essential for maintaining the safety, variety, and quality of food services to Veterans, promoting their health outcomes while upholding VA standards. Potential candidates must exhibit a commitment to public service, efficient work habits, and strict adherence to health and safety guidelines. This opportunity is open to all U.S. Citizens and Nationals, with the hiring process following Direct-Hire Authority, allowing for streamlined and expedited consideration. The VA promotes a comprehensive onboarding process that includes background checks, drug screening, and compliance with federal employment eligibility. Additionally, the VA requires participation in its seasonal influenza program for health care personnel to protect both staff and Veterans. Candidates applying for this role should be prepared to submit necessary documentation and meet federal employment requirements fully. The VA offers a rewarding federal career with a comprehensive benefits package, making this an excellent opportunity for long-term growth and dedicated public service in a respected federal institution.