Become a Cook with the Air Force Special Operations Command
Are you a skilled culinary professional looking for a stable, meaningful career? The Air Force Special Operations Command is currently seeking dedicated Cooks to join the Child Development Center (CDC) team at Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico. This position offers a unique chance to combine your passion for cooking with service to military families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cook, your primary duties involve more than just preparing meals. You will:
- Prepare daily meals and snacks following USDA and Air Force nutritional guidelines.
- Utilize standardized quantity cooking procedures to serve a high volume of meals.
- Manage inventory, order supplies through commissaries and vendors, and maintain budget awareness.
- Keep detailed logs of food preparation and nutritional data.
- Maintain rigorous sanitation and cleanliness standards.
Requirements
Candidates must meet specific physical and professional standards to qualify for this role:
- Physical Ability: Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Communication: Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking).
- Security: Ability to pass a National Agency Check and criminal history screenings.
- Documentation: Valid driver's license and up-to-date immunizations.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | Essential Requirement | Preferred Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Proven cooking/baking ability | Institutional/Daycare setting |
| Records | Ability to maintain logs | Expertise in inventory software |
| Licensing | Valid driver's license | Professional Food Handler Cert |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly rate between $21.47 and $22.36. This is a full-time, stable career path within the federal government structure, specifically under the NAF pay system.
Benefits
Beyond competitive pay, employees enjoy working in a structured, supportive environment that values health, safety, and community service. You will be part of a team dedicated to excellence in child nutrition and support.
Application Tips
- Highlight Volume: When writing your resume, specify the number of meals you have prepared daily in previous roles.
- Focus on Compliance: Mention your experience with food safety regulations or specific government nutrition programs.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the July 30, 2026 deadline. Getting your application in early allows you time to correct any errors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a degree to apply? A: No, this position focuses on your professional experience and technical ability in the kitchen rather than educational credentials.
Q: Is this a remote position? A: No, this role requires on-site presence at the Cannon AFB Child Development Center.
If you are a motivated culinary professional, this role at Cannon AFB is a fantastic way to serve your community while building a reliable federal career. Prepare to apply by gathering your documents and showcasing your commitment to food excellence.
Why This Cook Job Matters
Launch a rewarding culinary career where your work directly supports Air Force families and mission readiness at Cannon AFB.
Cook Job Overview
Join the Air Force Special Operations Command team at the Child Development Center in Cannon AFB, New Mexico. As a Cook, you will play a vital role in providing high-quality, nutritious meals to children, ensuring compliance with strict USDA and Air Force standards. This is a Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position that offers a stable environment and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of military children every day.
Requirements for Cook
- Must be able to fluently read, write, and speak the English language.
- Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Possession of a current, valid driver's license.
- Must maintain current immunization records as required.
- Ability to pass a mandatory pre-employment physical examination.
- Must pass a background check including National Agency Check and State Criminal History Repository Check.
- Ability to work in a drug-tested designated position with random testing.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or a Non-U.S. National meeting residency requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Cook
- Prior progressive experience in quantity cooking and volume baking.
- Background in institutional food service environments such as nursing homes, hospitals, or daycare facilities.
- In-depth knowledge of USDA child nutrition guidelines and meal preparation regulations.
- Proven proficiency in inventory management and accurate record-keeping.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Supportive military environment
- ✓Access to base facilities
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the Air Force NAF system
💡 How to Apply Cook Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cook Job
- Register or log in to your USAJobs account.
- Prepare your resume detailing all relevant paid or volunteer cooking experience.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, such as professional licenses or certifications.
- Review your application package for completeness and submit before the July 30, 2026 deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to specifically highlight your experience with high-volume cooking and nutrition standards.
- Ensure your contact information is current and includes professional references.
- Use the 'document status' feature in USAJobs to confirm your uploads were received.
- Carefully review the eligibility requirements if you are applying under specific statuses like Military Spouse Preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a NAF position?
NAF stands for Non-Appropriated Fund. These positions support Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities for the Air Force and are funded through the revenue generated by these programs rather than taxpayer-appropriated funds.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, this specific position requires progressive experience in the culinary field and does not permit the substitution of education for work experience.
Job from Air Force Special Operations Command
The Air Force Services Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) organization supports the morale, welfare, and recreation of service members and their families. Working in a CDC environment, you become an essential part of the community that ensures military personnel can focus on their mission, knowing their children are receiving high-quality, nutritious meals.