Become a Cook Leader at McGuire AFB: A Premier Culinary Opportunity
Are you a culinary professional with a passion for leadership? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a motivated Cook Leader to join the 87th Force Support Squadron at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who serve, providing high-quality food service in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cook Leader, you won't just be preparing meals—you will be managing the heart of the kitchen. Your primary duties will include:
- Leadership and Guidance: Providing daily direction to staff, setting the pace for work, and demonstrating proper cooking techniques.
- Culinary Excellence: Preparing a variety of foods including meats, fish, poultry, soups, and desserts without relying on packaged mixes.
- Operational Efficiency: Adjusting recipes for portion control, performing yield testing to determine costs, and ensuring all items are prepared to temperature standards.
- Administration: Ordering and managing food stock, maintaining safety and security rules, and ensuring high standards of housekeeping.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate the ability to lead a team of at least three workers. Key requirements include:
- Extensive professional experience in a restaurant, grill, or similar food activity.
- Mastery of varied cooking methods (broiling, baking, frying, etc.).
- Physical capability to remain on your feet for extended periods.
- U.S. citizenship or eligible non-U.S. national status.
Skills Comparison Table
| Skill Category | Importance | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Team Leadership | Critical | Staff coordination & training |
| Food Prep | High | Diverse cooking techniques |
| Cost Management | High | Yield testing & portion control |
| Safety/Compliance | Essential | E-Verify & Sanitation standards |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive pay rate of $23.60 per hour. As a Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) employee, you will be part of a unique workforce that directly impacts the morale and welfare of our military community.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly describe your leadership roles and how you have managed food costs or recipes in the past.
- Check Your Documents: Ensure that if you are claiming veterans' or military spouse preference, all relevant documents (like DD-214) are uploaded.
- Stay Current: Since this position has a closing date of June 30, 2026, ensure you submit your application well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a security clearance required for this position? A: No, a security clearance is not required; however, you must pass suitability and fitness checks.
Q: Can I apply if I have no experience in a commercial kitchen? A: This position requires specific experience in a commercial food setting to demonstrate you can handle the volume and complexity of the duties required.
If you are ready to take your culinary skills to the next level in a supportive, professional military environment, apply for the Cook Leader position at McGuire AFB today. Join the 87th FSS team and contribute to a legacy of excellence.
Why This Cook Leader - Mcguire Job Matters
Elevate your culinary career at Pudgy's! Join the Air Mobility Command team at McGuire AFB and lead a talented kitchen staff in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment.
Cook Leader - Mcguire Job Overview
The 87th Force Support Squadron is looking for a dedicated Cook Leader to join our culinary team at McGuire Air Force Base. This Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position is ideal for experienced food service professionals who excel at coordinating cooking processes, managing staff, and ensuring high-quality meal preparation. Located in southern New Jersey, you will enjoy a vibrant professional atmosphere just a short distance from major cities like Philadelphia and New York.
Requirements for Cook Leader - Mcguire
- Ability to lead three or more kitchen staff members effectively.
- Extensive experience in food preparation, including roasting, baking, broiling, and sautéing.
- Proficiency in adjusting standardized recipes for varying serving sizes and performing yield testing.
- Strong knowledge of food storage, issuance, and procurement procedures.
- Physical ability to stand, walk, stoop, and lift for extended shifts.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-U.S. national with three years of consecutive U.S. residency.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Cook Leader - Mcguire
- Prior supervisory or lead experience in a grill, snack bar, restaurant, or club setting.
- Proven track record of managing food costs and waste reduction.
- Strong communication skills for relaying instructions and maintaining kitchen safety/security standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) employment status.
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Access to a supportive team environment within the Department of the Air Force.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) focused facility.
💡 How to Apply Cook Leader - Mcguire Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cook Leader - Mcguire Job
- Create or log in to your USAJobs account.
- Prepare your resume detailing all relevant paid and volunteer experience.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire linked in the announcement.
- Upload required documentation, such as DD-214 or transcripts, if applicable.
- Review your application package for accuracy and completeness.
- Submit your application before the closing date of June 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume regarding your leadership duties; clearly define how you have supervised others in a kitchen setting.
- Ensure your resume does not include a personal photograph.
- If claiming preference (e.g., Veteran or Military Spouse), ensure all supporting documents are attached.
- Double-check that all contact information for your references is current.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding your application status.
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 Space Force and are funded primarily through the revenue generated by those activities.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, this specific position requires qualifying work experience and does not allow for education substitution.
Where is this position located?
This role is based at Pudgy's on McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey.
Job from Air Mobility Command
The 87th Force Support Squadron (FSS) provides essential services that boost morale and sustain readiness for Air Force and Space Force personnel. By working at Pudgy’s on McGuire AFB, you are joining a team dedicated to excellence, efficiency, and community. Located in beautiful southern New Jersey, the base offers proximity to the Jersey Shore, Philadelphia, and New York City, making it an ideal place to grow your career and your lifestyle.