Launch Your Career: Restaurant Operations Assistant at Kadena Air Base
Are you looking to make a meaningful impact while working in one of the most strategic locations in the Pacific? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a dedicated Restaurant Operations Assistant to join the team at the Dough Pizzeria on Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. This role is perfect for those who possess strong leadership skills, a passion for food service, and a commitment to excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As a Restaurant Operations Assistant, you will act as the bridge between management and daily operations. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Shift Supervision: Managing operations during evenings and weekends when management is off-duty.
- Operational Oversight: Monitoring restaurant functions, ensuring schedules are followed, and providing clear guidance to staff.
- Cash Handling: Maintaining strict financial control over sales, deposits, and cash accountability methods.
- Safety and Sanitation: Enforcing health codes, fire regulations, and safety procedures to protect patrons and employees.
- Customer Service: Resolving patron concerns and ensuring high-quality service at all times.
Requirements
This role has specific eligibility requirements due to its location and nature.
- Eligibility: You must have SOFA sponsorship. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal U.S. residents from a NATO country.
- Experience: You must demonstrate previous experience in restaurant operations, specifically in a capacity that involves supervision and cash management.
- Certifications: You must be prepared to obtain a Food Handler’s Certificate and complete required training.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hourly Wage | $16.55 – $21.80 |
| Employment Type | NAF (Non-Appropriated Fund) |
| Location | Kadena Air Base, Okinawa |
| Perks | Post Allowance for Full-Time staff |
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly describe your past experience in restaurant supervision and cash handling. Include both paid and volunteer experience.
- Documentation Matters: Ensure you have your SOFA PCS orders ready. Failing to include these will result in an incomplete application.
- Follow Deadlines: Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on August 7, 2026.
- References: Include current contact details for your professional references to expedite the hiring process.
This position offers a unique blend of professional challenge and a fantastic cultural experience in Japan. If you are a reliable, customer-focused leader, we encourage you to review the full announcement and submit your application today. Join the team that keeps Kadena Air Base running smoothly!
Why This Restaurant Operations Assistant Job Matters
Launch your career in the heart of the Pacific! Join the dedicated team at Kadena Air Base and lead restaurant operations in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Restaurant Operations Assistant Job Overview
The Pacific Air Forces is seeking a motivated Restaurant Operations Assistant to support the Dough Pizzeria at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. This role is a vital component of the Air Force Services Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) team, ensuring high-quality service, facility safety, and operational excellence during evening and weekend shifts.
Requirements for Restaurant Operations Assistant
- Must possess SOFA sponsorship eligibility.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or a legal U.S. resident (NATO country citizen with a valid social security number).
- Must provide proof of residence status overseas.
- Must have prior experience or training in restaurant operations, specifically in a supervisory or managerial support capacity.
- Must demonstrate proficiency in cash handling, deposit procedures, and accountability controls.
- Must be capable of directing staff and enforcing safety, fire, and health regulations.
- Must be able to obtain a Food Handler’s Certificate.
- Must complete a Tier 1 security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Restaurant Operations Assistant
- Prior experience in leadership or providing work direction to staff within a food service environment.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve customer complaints and ensure patron satisfaction in high-volume settings.
- Experience managing facility security and safety protocols during night or weekend shifts.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wages.
- ✓Post Allowance eligibility for Regular Full-Time employees.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a unique, world-class combat team environment.
- ✓Access to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities.
💡 How to Apply Restaurant Operations Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Restaurant Operations Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJobs account.
- Review the specific questionnaire linked in the announcement.
- Prepare your resume detailing all relevant paid and unpaid volunteer experience.
- Gather required documentation, including SOFA PCS orders and proof of eligibility.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal by the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates regarding your application.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes full contact information for professional references.
- Do not include personal photos or inappropriate content in your resume.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan before submitting.
- Clearly highlight your cash handling and supervisory experience to stand out.
- Sanitize sensitive documents if necessary to protect personal information, but be prepared to provide unredacted versions if selected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for experience in this role?
No, education cannot be substituted for the required operational and supervisory experience for this position.
Who is eligible to apply for this vacancy?
This role is open to individuals with SOFA sponsorship, including U.S. citizens and legal U.S. residents who hold citizenship in a NATO country and reside in Okinawa, Japan.
Will my relocation expenses be covered?
No, payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized for this position.
Job from Pacific Air Forces
This position falls under the Air Force Services Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) division. Air Force Services is responsible for the morale, welfare, and recreation of military personnel and their families. Kadena Air Base serves as the "Keystone of the Pacific," hosting the 18th Wing and serving as the primary hub for airpower in the region. Working with the NAF team means you are directly contributing to the quality of life for the 18,000 Americans and 4,000 Japanese employees who make up Team Kadena.