VCS - Cook - Tacoma WA

Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) has been serving the nation since 1946, providing vital retail services and benefits to millions of Veterans enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare System, the largest healthcare system in the United States. VCS operates with a mission to enhance the quality of life for Veterans by offering essential conveniences such as food service and retail in VA facilities. This organization is committed to putting Veterans first, making it a distinguished and meaningful employer for individuals seeking a career that balances personal fulfillment with public service. The agency is known for fostering an environment where employees can grow professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

This job opportunity is for a full-time, permanent Cooking position located in Tacoma, Washington. The position offers an hourly salary of $20.61 and falls under the NA 4 pay scale and grade, with no promotion potential. The role requires performing a variety of cooking and food preparation tasks, primarily responsible for breakfast and lunch service operations. The selected candidate will be engaged in preparing, cooking, and ensuring the quality and safety of food items, while maintaining rigorous standards of kitchen cleanliness and sanitation.

As a cook at Veterans Canteen Service, you will contribute significantly to delivering high-quality food services that support Veteran care facilities. The job entails following specific recipes accurately to maintain consistency and compliance with health standards, as well as adapting quantities of recipes for daily operational needs. This position demands physical stamina, including constant standing, walking, and frequent bending, and the capability to lift or move objects weighing up to 40 pounds independently. Additionally, customer service skills are crucial in this role to ensure a positive dining experience for all Veterans and customers.

Employment at VCS comes with a 1-year trial period to assess fitness for the role and alignment with organizational goals, ensuring that your contribution meaningfully advances the public interest. The position requires adherence to conditions such as Selective Service Registration for eligible male candidates and is subject to background security investigations. The opportunity to work with the Veterans Canteen Service is ideal for individuals passionate about serving Veterans and contributing to the federal government, promoting efficiency, and upholding the principles of the American republic.

Veterans and the general public, including U.S. citizens, nationals, and individuals owing allegiance to the United States, are encouraged to apply. Veterans, spouses, widows, widowers, or parents of Veterans may be eligible for derived preference. Candidates should possess, or be willing to obtain, a current, valid REAL ID and preferably have ServSafe Food Handler certification. Experience of at least one year in cooking and food safety, alongside strong knowledge of recipe measurements and adjustments, is preferred.

Joining VCS means becoming part of a service-oriented team dedicated to enhancing Veteran welfare through quality food service. This position does not permit telework or remote work and does not offer relocation expenses reimbursement. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to comprehensive benefits designed to support your career and personal life. VCS operates in a supportive, inclusive environment committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. If you are motivated by a desire to serve those who have served the nation and meet the responsibilities outlined, this role offers a rewarding career path with meaningful impact.