Meatcutting Worker

The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is a unique and vital agency within the United States Department of Defense that provides grocery shopping services to military personnel, their families, and other authorized patrons. DeCA operates commissaries located on military installations worldwide, offering high-quality groceries and household products at cost savings compared to commercial outlets. This agency is committed to supporting the military community's welfare by ensuring access to affordable, nutritious food products. It operates across numerous locations and employs a variety of personnel, from retail workers to specialized trades like meatcutters. The work environment in DeCA locations can involve refrigerated areas and the handling of various food products, emphasizing safety and sanitation.

The Meatcutting Worker position within DeCA serves an essential role in the retail operation focused on meat departments. This role specifically assists full-performance meatcutters by undertaking simpler yet important tasks related to processing beef, pork, veal, and lamb into retail-ready cuts. The position plays a critical supporting function, facilitating efficient meat preparation and presentation, thereby contributing to an excellent customer shopping experience. Work in this position involves tray wrapping, weighing, pricing, replenishing stock, and rotating products to maintain quality and wholesomeness. Additionally, workers in this role use, clean, maintain, and sharpen various hand tools and power meat cutting equipment, along with ensuring their work area meets rigorous cleanliness and sanitation standards.

This role is categorized under the WG-5 pay scale with a competitive hourly wage ranging from $20.22 to $28.67 depending on experience and locality adjustments. It is a permanent position with part-time irregular work schedules that vary by location and may include days, nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional travel. The work settings may expose employees to temperature variations, dampness, and potential minor injuries like cuts or burns, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or nationals and meet age and selective service requirements as outlined by federal employment rules. The agency provides equal opportunity and priority preferences to eligible federal employees, military spouses, and career transition applicants. Due to the nature of the work, there is no telework or remote work eligibility. Maintenance of a drug-free workplace is strictly enforced, aligned with federal regulations. This position does not require a drug test, but it does involve suitability or fitness background checks, including fingerprinting.

The job involves using hand and power tools safely, interpreting instructions beyond blueprints, maintaining neat and orderly work practices, and demonstrating mechanical dexterity and an understanding of materials and technical practices related to meat cutting. Physical demands include standing, walking, bending, stooping, lifting up to 50 pounds independently and heavier weights with assistance, which suits individuals capable of moderate physical labor.

This announcement is open for applications from October 24, 2025, through June 30, 2026, with an open-continuous application process allowing future vacancies to be filled by qualified applicants. Candidates are evaluated through a comprehensive system considering their qualifications and experience with a ranking from "Best Qualified" down to "Qualified." Veterans, military spouses, and federal employees eligible for special hiring authorities are encouraged to apply, with documented proof required for priority consideration.

Overall, this position offers a rewarding opportunity for those interested in a trade role within a respected federal agency supporting military families. Employees benefit not only from a stable career path and competitive salary but also from a comprehensive federal benefits package including health, dental, retirement plans, and paid leave. The Defense Commissary Agency provides an environment where commitment to professionalism, safety, and service to the military community is highly valued.