Food Service Worker

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Eastern Kansas Health Care System is dedicated to providing exemplary health care services to veterans, supporting their health and well-being with compassion, commitment, and professionalism. Located in Topeka, Kansas, the healthcare system offers a wide range of medical and support services to veterans, encompassing inpatient, outpatient, and specialized care programs. As a federal agency, it adheres to rigorous standards that ensure comprehensive care and support for veterans and their families. The Eastern Kansas Health Care System is committed to fostering a supportive work environment focused on integrity, respect, and continuous improvement.

The Food Service Worker position in this esteemed federal institution plays an essential role in the smooth operation of the food service department. This role involves performing multiple steps and task sequences that require focused attention to detail and adherence to established procedures. Food Service Workers are instrumental in different functional areas of the kitchen, including food preparation, dish and pot washing, storage management, and food serving. The position involves routine tasks such as portioning cold food, portioning hot food, working in dishwashing areas, and passing trays, all of which contribute to providing nutritious and timely meals to patients and customers.

This part-time permanent employment opportunity offers a salary range from $19.04 to $22.17 per hour under the WG 2 pay scale and grade system. Located at Topeka, KS, this role requires a dedication to federal service standards and a willingness to support the agency's mission. The Food Service Worker must be able to endure physical tasks involving moderate to heavy exertion, such as pushing carts, scrubbing utensils, and moving garbage cans, along with continuous standing, walking, stooping, bending, and reaching.

The position requires a commitment to following safety protocols and efficient food handling practices. Candidates are expected to work reliably and dependably, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards throughout food preparation and service areas. The Food Service Worker will engage in specific tasks, including setting up cafeteria lines, serving meals, cleaning up, delivering trays to patients, assembling salads, making sandwiches, operating kitchen equipment, maintaining dishwashing facilities, and supporting inventory receipt and storage.

This role serves a vital function within the Department of Veterans Affairs by ensuring patients and customers receive high-quality, well-prepared meals and that the kitchen operates efficiently. Candidates must demonstrate a strong aptitude for food service work, possess dexterity, and be able to follow directions precisely. The Department values diverse experiences including volunteer work, which may contribute to meeting qualification standards.

A one-year probationary period is required, during which performance and conduct are evaluated to determine continued employment suitability. As a federal employee, the Food Service Worker will enjoy comprehensive benefits tailored to support health, work-life balance, and career growth. The position is not telework-eligible and does not require relocation or travel. The hiring process emphasizes adherence to federal hiring policies, including suitability determination and background checks for credentialing. This job opportunity is ideal for candidates who are committed to serving veterans and contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of the Federal government.