Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Part-time
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Compensation

Hourly
Range $15.97 - $28.94
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Work Schedule

Rotating Shifts
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Benefits

Paid Time Off
Parental leave
Child care subsidy
Retirement Plan
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance

Job Description

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a federal government agency dedicated to providing essential services and support to U.S. military veterans. Established to honor and assist those who have served the country, the VA operates a comprehensive network of medical centers, outpatient clinics, and specialized facilities nationwide. Its mission is to deliver high-quality healthcare, benefits, and other forms of assistance to improve the lives of veterans and their families. The VA employs a diverse workforce committed to upholding the ideals of the American republic, maintaining the rule of law, and serving those who have served the nation. With a focus on efficiency and public service, the VA offers various employment opportunities, including this Food Service Worker position, which is part of an ongoing recruitment effort across multiple locations in the United States, including Birmingham, AL; Phoenix, AZ; San Francisco, CA; and many others.

This Food Service Worker role is designed to support the daily operations of VA medical facilities' food service departments, ensuring that patients receive nutritious meals in a timely and efficient manner. The position is permanent, with full-time and part-time schedules available based on individual duty location needs. Salary ranges from $15.97 to $28.94 per hour, varying by locality and experience, classified under the WG-3 pay grade. The Food Service Worker is a vital member of the healthcare support team, responsible for preparing and serving food items, setting up and breaking down stations, maintaining cleanliness in food service areas, and assisting cooks with food preparation tasks. This role requires physical stamina to work in hot and humid kitchen environments, perform heavy cleaning tasks, and handle equipment and utensils safely.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens and suitable for federal employment, passing background checks and other hiring requirements. The VA values diverse experience, including volunteer work and training, and evaluates candidates based on their demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to food service work. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off ranging from 37 to 50 days annually, paid parental leave, childcare subsidies, retirement plans, and various insurance options. Working as a Food Service Worker at the VA means contributing to the well-being of veterans by ensuring they receive proper nutrition and care, supporting the broader mission of the Veterans Health Administration. This continuing announcement remains open until July 10, 2026, with the initial referral cut-off date set for April 24, 2026, allowing for ongoing application submissions and multiple potential vacancies at various VA medical centers nationwide.

Job Requirements

  • U.S. citizenship
  • Suitable for federal employment as determined by background investigation
  • Passing urinalysis test for illegal drug use
  • Selective services registration for males born after December 31, 1959
  • Completion of online onboarding process
  • Submission of all required application documents
  • Commitment to a 1-year probationary period
  • Physical ability to perform light to heavy physical work including standing, walking, stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 40 pounds with assistance
  • Ability to work rotating weekends and holidays as needed

Job Qualifications

  • Ability to perform work of the position without more than normal supervision
  • Evidence of training or experience to perform duties
  • Knowledge of dexterity and safety practices
  • Ability to interpret instructions and specifications
  • Knowledge of materials and technical practices
  • Ability to use and maintain tools and equipment
  • Familiar with standard work practices
  • Effective communication skills
  • Capability to work in a team environment

Job Duties

  • Sets up and breaks down assigned station with correct supplies and food items
  • Portions food items into standard serving sizes using proper utensils and specified dishware
  • Selects and places correct items on patient trays
  • Decides what food items to serve for the most common diets
  • Identifies discrepancies between prescribed diets and menu food items
  • Sets up dining room tables for service, places food and beverages, and replenishes items as necessary
  • Delivers meal trays to patients' bedsides and reports patients' comments and complaints to supervisors or dietitians
  • Assists cooks in food preparation by weighing, measuring, and assembling ingredients according to recipes
  • Prepares fresh fruit, cold salads, dressings, sandwich fillings, cold sandwiches, and simple cold desserts
  • Reads and interprets menus, diet cards, tray tickets, or patient selections
  • Performs heavy-duty cleaning tasks throughout food service and related areas
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Job Criteria

Experience

No experience required


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