Launch Your Career with the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA)
Are you looking for a stable, meaningful career where your daily efforts contribute to the well-being of military families? The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is currently hiring Store Associates across various locations, including Dover AFB, Lakehurst, and beyond. This role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals who thrive in a fast-paced retail environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Store Associate, you will be the backbone of our store operations. Duties include:
- Customer Service: Assisting patrons with item inquiries and managing heavy or bulky purchases.
- Operations: Operating electronic checkout systems and processing payments.
- Merchandising: Stocking shelves, maintaining inventory levels, and preparing produce displays.
- Administration: Reconciling invoices and maintaining store records through our Computer Assisted Ordering (CAO) system.
Requirements
You must be able to stand for long periods and lift up to 40 lbs. Applicants must provide a two-page resume that details previous work history, including specific hours per week.
Comparison: General Experience vs. Educational Qualification
| Feature | Experience Option | Education Option |
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | 1 year clerical/office work | 2 full years above high school |
| Documentation | Employment history in resume | Official/Unofficial transcripts |
| Combination | Allowed | Allowed |
Salary and Benefits
The hourly rate for this position ranges from $17.82 to $26.73, depending on location and step placement. As a federal employee, you become part of a robust organization with long-term potential.
Application Tips
Don't let a formatting error cost you the job! Always upload your documents as PDFs, and ensure your resume is concise—two pages is the hard limit. Double-check your contact information and ensure you have clearly listed your work schedule for each previous employer.
If you are ready to serve those who serve us, a position as a Store Associate at DeCA is a rewarding path forward. Prepare your application today and take the first step toward a career with the federal government.
Why This Store Associate Job Matters
Support our military heroes and their families by joining the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) team as a Store Associate—where every shift makes a difference in the quality of life for those who serve.
Store Associate Job Overview
The Defense Commissary Agency is seeking dedicated Store Associates to provide exceptional service at multiple military installations. In this role, you will be the face of the commissary, ensuring that military families receive the high-quality grocery experience they deserve. Whether you are stocking shelves, managing inventory, or assisting at checkout, your work directly supports the mission of military family readiness.
Requirements for Store Associate
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry items weighing up to 40 lbs independently.
- Must be able to stand, stoop, kneel, and bend for prolonged periods.
- Resume must not exceed two pages and must include hours worked per week.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Ability to operate electronic checkout systems and perform basic clerical duties.
- Pass a suitability/fitness check.
Preferred Qualifications for Store Associate
- Experience in retail grocery operations.
- Demonstrated ability to handle customer inquiries professionally.
- Prior experience with inventory management systems.
- Strong communication skills and attention to safety and sanitation standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay rates.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within a large federal agency.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package availability.
- ✓The pride of supporting military families and service members.
💡 How to Apply Store Associate Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Store Associate Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully to ensure you meet all qualifications.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile to include a tailored, two-page resume.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, such as transcripts or veteran preference forms, in PDF format.
- Submit your application package before the established cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week for every past position.
- Upload your documents as individual PDFs rather than creating a PDF portfolio.
- Double-check your questionnaire responses to ensure they align with your resume narrative.
- Submit your application well before the cut-off, as document virus scanning can take time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age requirement for this position?
The general minimum age requirement is 18 years old, though exceptions may exist for specific circumstances.
Can I work remotely?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or remote work as it requires a physical presence at the commissary.
How long is my resume allowed to be?
Your resume must be exactly two pages or fewer. Any resume exceeding this limit will result in your removal from consideration.
Job from Defense Commissary Agency
The Defense Commissary Agency operates a global network of 235 commissaries. We provide a vital service, saving military members and their families thousands of dollars annually on groceries. With over 13,000 employees, we are a diverse, mission-driven organization dedicated to military quality of life.