About the opportunity
This position is located within the Food and Beverage Division of the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Department in the Navy Region Southwest. The primary purpose of the role is to perform a full range of cooking tasks, including preparing menu items such as pancakes, meats, soups, and sandwiches, as well as handling convenience items. The Cook is responsible for weighing and measuring ingredients, following standardized recipes, setting up and replenishing the salad bar, and maintaining clean and sanitary work areas. Additionally, the role involves managing food inventories, rotating stock to prevent spoilage, and ensuring all menu items are prepared and ready for service at specified times.
Salary and benefits
- Hourly wage of $19.74–$21.39
- Flexible work schedule (0–40 hours per week)
- Access to federal employment benefits and programs as applicable
Who can apply?
- Working knowledge of food preparation methods and procedures for small quantities
- Ability to read and understand food service materials, such as labels and recipes
- Basic arithmetic skills for recipe scaling and portion calculation
- Knowledge of food characteristics (color, flavor, texture, temperature) and cooking times
- Understanding of sanitation principles
- Must be able to maintain a drug-free workplace
- Non-U.S. citizens must have at least three years of recent residential history in the U.S. to be eligible
Required documents
- Resume (limited to two pages)
- Proof of education/training (college transcripts if applicable)
- Notice of separation (if claiming DOD NAF BBA priority consideration)
- Sponsor's PCS orders and marriage certificate (if claiming Military Spouse Preference)
- DD-214 Member-4 page and supporting documentation (if claiming Veteran's Preference)
- Most recent Personnel Action Report (PAR) or SF-50 (if a current or former Federal Employee)
- High school diploma or equivalent (if degree not awarded or for specific certifications)
- Credential evaluation for foreign transcripts
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 2026-11-05 at 23:59:59 UTC
How to apply
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS
- Prepare a resume limited to two pages
- Click the blue APPLY button on the official USAJOBS page
- Upload all required supporting documentation
- Submit the application online before the deadline
Additional information
- Selectee may be required to complete a one-year probationary period
- Participation in Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer is required within the first 30 days
- Candidates must meet REAL ID Act requirements for military installation access
- The position is not in a positive education series
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Individuals with prior experience in commercial or institutional food preparation looking for a stable federal role.
- Candidates who value a flexible work schedule ranging from part-time to full-time hours.
- Applicants who possess strong organizational skills and a solid understanding of kitchen sanitation and inventory management.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is based in El Centro, California; applicants must be able to work on-site and meet military base access requirements.
- The position is subject to a one-year probationary period and strict federal drug-free workplace policies.
- The application process requires specific documentation (e.g., DD-214, PCS orders) if claiming hiring preferences, which must be provided at the time of application.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent opportunity for culinary professionals seeking to transition into the federal sector or those looking for a reliable, structured environment within the Department of the Navy. It provides a clear, defined scope of work and the potential for consistent hours, making it a practical choice for individuals focused on gaining experience in large-scale food service operations or those seeking stable employment in the El Centro area.
Our take
This position is well-suited for candidates with foundational cooking skills who are comfortable working in a military-affiliated environment. Applicants should ensure they have all necessary documentation ready before the November 5, 2026, deadline, as the selection process is highly structured and relies on the information provided in the initial application.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
