Launch Your Career: Food Service Worker at VA Puget Sound
Are you looking for a role that combines professional growth with a deeply meaningful mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System is currently hiring a Food Service Worker in Tacoma, Washington. This position is perfect for individuals who are reliable, hardworking, and committed to providing excellent service to our nation’s Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Food Service Worker, you are a critical part of the patient care experience. Your duties include:
- Meal Preparation: Assisting cooks by weighing, measuring, and assembling ingredients.
- Service Operations: Setting up tray lines and dining rooms to ensure efficient meal delivery.
- Dietary Oversight: Checking trays against patient diets to ensure accuracy and safety.
- Sanitation: Maintaining a clean workspace and adhering to strict health safety protocols.
- Inventory: Using computer systems to track supplies and manage stock using first-in, first-out procedures.
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must be U.S. citizens and able to pass a background investigation. You must be able to perform physical labor, including lifting up to 40 pounds with help and standing for extended periods.
Comparison Table: Physical Demands
| Task | Frequency | Physical Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Standing/Walking | Continuous | Moderate |
| Lifting (>20 lbs) | Frequent | Light/Moderate |
| Lifting (>40 lbs) | Occasional | Assisted |
| Bending/Reaching | Frequent | Physical Flexibility |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $26.18 to $30.51, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Working with the VA provides more than just a paycheck. You will gain access to federal benefits, career development opportunities, and the immense satisfaction of knowing your work supports Veterans in their recovery and care.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Keep your resume to two pages exactly.
- Be Detailed: Clearly list your start and end dates and hours worked per week.
- Use the Builder: The USAJOBS resume builder is a great tool to ensure your formatting complies with federal standards.
Serving those who served us is a noble pursuit. If you are ready to bring your work ethic and skills to the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, we encourage you to apply before the July 27, 2026, deadline.
Why This Food Service Worker Job Matters
Join the VA Puget Sound team in Tacoma and make a direct, positive impact on the lives of those who have served our nation.
Food Service Worker Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Food Service Worker to join our Nutrition and Food Services team. This vital role supports the operational excellence of our complex healthcare facility by ensuring patients receive high-quality, nutritionally appropriate meals. You will work in a fast-paced environment where your attention to detail in food preparation, safety, and inventory management directly contributes to the well-being of our Veterans.
Requirements for Food Service Worker
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Must be able to pass a background investigation to determine suitability for federal employment.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must complete an online onboarding process and submit all required documentation.
- Must provide valid, REAL ID compliant identification.
- Ability to perform light to moderate physical work, including standing, walking, bending, and lifting objects up to 40 pounds with assistance.
- Willingness to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccinations or secure an approved exemption.
Preferred Qualifications for Food Service Worker
- Experience in institutional food service, preparation, and meal assembly.
- Proficiency with kitchen equipment and safe sanitation practices.
- Demonstrated ability to follow standardized recipes and modified diet requirements.
- Basic computer literacy for inventory tracking and report generation.
- Strong communication skills for coordinating with the food service team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive hourly compensation
- âś“Comprehensive federal employee benefits package
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth within the VA healthcare system
- âś“Meaningful work serving Veterans
- âś“Accrual of annual and sick leave
đź’ˇ How to Apply Food Service Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Food Service Worker Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Review the job announcement and align your resume with the required skills.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents (Resume, etc.).
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; federal agencies are now enforcing a strict two-page limit.
- Be specific about your work experience, including months and years of employment, and hours worked per week.
- Ensure your resume explicitly addresses the qualifications and duties listed in the announcement.
- Upload documents as PDFs to maintain formatting.
- Double-check that all mandatory documents are included to avoid being ruled ineligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a specific degree required for this role?
No, there is no educational substitute required. We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the work.
What is the resume length limit?
As of September 2025, federal agencies require resumes to be two pages or less. Submitting a resume longer than two pages will result in immediate ineligibility.
What is the probation period?
New employees must serve a one-year probationary period to ensure their fitness and suitability for federal service.
Is there a requirement for vaccinations?
Yes, all health care personnel are required to participate in the annual influenza program.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is a premier Level 1a healthcare network. It stands as one of the most complex VA systems in the nation, offering everything from specialty surgical care to critical psychiatric rehabilitation. Our core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide every interaction we have with those we serve.