Launch Your Culinary Career: Child and Youth Program Cook in Honolulu

Are you a skilled culinary professional looking for a position that combines your passion for cooking with a meaningful mission? The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is hiring a Child and Youth Program (CYP) Cook in Honolulu, Hawaii. This role is essential to the health and development of military children, providing nutritious meals in a professional, safe, and supportive environment.

Job Responsibilities

The CYP Cook role involves a sequence of tasks that require high attention to detail and efficiency. Your primary duties will include:

Food Preparation: Cooking large-scale meals including meats, poultry, seafood, and produce while following standardized recipes.
Meal Planning: Coordinating cooking procedures so that various dishes are ready simultaneously at the correct temperature.
Kitchen Maintenance: Operating mechanical dishwashers, sanitizing food preparation areas, and ensuring heavy-duty cleaning standards are met.
Safety & Compliance: Ensuring all food is labeled and stored according to USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate:

Experience: A thorough understanding of quantity cooking principles and food safety.
Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
Background: Must pass a comprehensive Installation Records Check (IRC).
Communication: Ability to communicate clearly in English for safety and instructional purposes.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $27.24 and $31.77. Beyond the base pay, employees benefit from a robust support system, including:

Benefit	Description
Childcare Discount	Up to 100% for the first child and 25% for additional children
Training	Professional development programs
Work-Life Balance	Stable scheduling in a professional environment
Mission Support	Contributing to the U.S. Navy community

Application Tips

Be Specific: When detailing your experience on your resume, explain the volume of food you have prepared in previous roles.
Follow the Limit: Keep your resume to two pages or less.
Check Your Documents: Ensure your diploma and any preference documents are uploaded correctly.

Working as a Child and Youth Program Cook in Honolulu is more than just a job; it is a way to serve those who serve our country. With competitive pay and the opportunity to work in a collaborative, professional kitchen, this position is a fantastic career move for any dedicated cook. Submit your application through USAJOBS before August 24, 2026, to be considered.

Why This Child And Youth Program Cook Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in culinary arts with a mission-driven team dedicated to supporting Navy families in Honolulu.

Child And Youth Program Cook Job Overview

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is seeking a dedicated Child and Youth Program (CYP) Cook to join the team in Honolulu, Hawaii. In this role, you will play a vital part in the development and health of military families by preparing nutritious, high-quality meals within a Child Development Center environment. This is an exceptional opportunity for a culinary professional to contribute to the Fleet and Family Readiness mission while enjoying competitive federal benefits and a stable work environment.

Requirements for Child And Youth Program Cook

High school diploma or equivalent (must submit proof with application).
Must be able to pass a rigorous background check, including Installation Records Check (IRC).
Effective communication skills in English, both written and oral.
Must be able to perform heavy-duty kitchen cleaning tasks.
Commitment to drug-free workplace standards (Federal policy applies).
Ability to work in a collaborative environment with strict adherence to safety and hygiene standards.

Preferred Qualifications for Child And Youth Program Cook

Experience in high-volume quantity food preparation.
Demonstrated ability to follow and adapt standardized recipes for large groups.
Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation regulations, and temperature control procedures.
Experience working in a professional kitchen setting with complex equipment.
Proven history of maintaining clean and organized food service environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay range of $27.24 to $31.77.
✓Childcare tuition discounts (up to 100% for first child, 25% for additional).
✓Professional development and training opportunities.
✓Employment with a mission-driven organization supporting the U.S. Navy.
✓Access to MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) facilities and services.

💡 How to Apply Child And Youth Program Cook Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Child And Youth Program Cook Job

Prepare your resume (maximum of two pages).
Gather supporting documents including high school diploma, transcripts, and any preference-claiming documents (e.g., DD-214, PCS orders).
Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the deadline of August 24, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically highlights your experience in quantity cooking and food safety.
Double-check that all required documents are attached; incomplete applications will not be considered.
Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; the system will not accept longer files.
Monitor your email inbox regularly for status updates from USA Staffing.
Ensure your contact information is current and your email filters allow messages from government domains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a CYP Cook?

The CYP Cook is responsible for planning, preparing, and serving nutritious meals in a Child Development Center, ensuring all food safety, sanitation, and dietary requirements are strictly followed.

Are there any specific document requirements for education?

Yes, you must provide a copy of your high school diploma, GED, or college transcripts. If using a college degree to qualify, ensure the transcript shows the degree awarded date and field of study.

What is the policy on drug use for this position?

As a Federal position, this role requires a drug-free workplace. The use of marijuana is illegal under Federal law, regardless of state regulations, and a positive test result will result in the withdrawal of your job offer.

Is a background check required?

Yes, because this position works with children, you must pass an Installation Records Check.

Can I apply if I have an associate degree?

Yes, but you must provide transcripts showing the degree was awarded.

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

The Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) programs under the Department of the Navy strive to maximize the physical, emotional, and social development of our military force and their families. Working as a cook within the Navy's Child and Youth Program means you are directly supporting the readiness of our service members by ensuring their children are well-nourished and cared for. CNIC provides competitive salaries, extensive professional development, and a unique environment where civilian talent supports military excellence.