Launch Your Culinary Career with Army Child & Youth Services

Are you a skilled cook who wants to apply your talents toward a meaningful mission? The United States Army Installation Management Command is currently hiring a part-time Cook to join our Child and Youth Services (CYS) team at the Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve the families of those who protect our nation while building a stable and rewarding career in federal service.

Job Responsibilities

As a CYS Cook, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks that keep our dining operations running smoothly:

Food Preparation: Performing essential tasks such as washing, peeling, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Cooking & Baking: Preparing complex meals including meats, seafood, casseroles, and baked goods based on standard recipes.
Program Compliance: Assisting in the implementation of the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) requirements.
Operations: Managing food inventory, submitting purchase requests, and maintaining a clean, sanitary kitchen.
Leadership: Mentoring junior kitchen staff and participating in health and fitness programs for youth.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate:

A minimum of six months of relevant work experience.
Proficiency with professional kitchen appliances (grills, fryers, commercial ovens).
Strong communication skills.
The ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
Residence within the 60-mile local commuting area.

Salary Overview

This position offers competitive compensation under the Federal Wage Schedule (FWS).

Pay Metric	Range
Hourly Rate	$21.82 - $25.45
Work Schedule	Minimum 20 Hours/Week
Overtime Eligibility	After 8 hours/day or 40 hours/week

Benefits

Working for Army Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) comes with a comprehensive package of perks, including:

Financial: Competitive pay, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential premium pay for Sundays or evening shifts.
Health: Access to health and life insurance options.
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid personal time off and federal holidays.
Childcare: Significant discounts for your own children enrolled in CYS programs.
Facilities: Access to on-base amenities, including gyms and libraries.

Application Tips

The Two-Page Rule: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer to remain eligible.
Be Detailed: Clearly define your experience with specific cooking equipment and volume food preparation.
Apply Early: Applicants who apply by August 27 receive first consideration.

If you are ready to bring your culinary skills to a role that truly makes an impact, apply today. By joining the CYS team at Rock Island Arsenal, you are not just getting a paycheck; you are joining a community dedicated to excellence and service. Visit the official USAJOBS portal to submit your application before the September 14, 2026 deadline.

Why This Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job Matters

Transform lives one meal at a time—join the Child and Youth Services team at Rock Island Arsenal as a professional Cook and make a tangible difference in the lives of military families.

Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job Overview

The U.S. Army Installation Management Command is seeking a skilled and dedicated Cook to join the Child and Youth Services (CYS) team at the Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois. This part-time position plays a vital role in our mission by providing high-quality, nutritious meals to children, supporting their health, development, and overall well-being. As part of a collaborative team, you will ensure all food service operations adhere to USDA standards while working in a supportive, mission-driven environment that values professional growth and community service.

Requirements for Cook (Cys) Na-06

Minimum of 6 months of verifiable work experience in professional food service or kitchen settings.
Proven proficiency in using commercial-grade kitchen appliances and cooking equipment.
Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
Physical ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs routinely.
Must be located within the 60-mile local commuting area of Rock Island Arsenal.
Ability to submit a resume strictly limited to two pages or less.

Preferred Qualifications for Cook (Cys) Na-06

Prior experience working within a formal institutional or child-care food service program.
Familiarity with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) regulations.
Demonstrated experience in training junior kitchen staff or participating in wellness initiatives.
Proven track record of maintaining high sanitation and safety standards in a professional kitchen.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay with potential for Sunday and shift premiums.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options for eligible employees.
✓Participation in 401(k) and retirement savings plans.
✓Generous paid personal time off and federal holidays.
✓Significant childcare discounts for CYS employees.
✓Access to on-base amenities including fitness centers and libraries.
✓Ongoing professional training, certifications, and career development programs.

💡 How to Apply Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job

Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting your kitchen experience.
Identify and gather required documentation, such as DD-214 or professional references.
Submit your complete application through the online portal before the September 14, 2026, deadline.
Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire accurately.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding your application status.

💡 General Tips

Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting and page count requirements are maintained.
Focus your resume content on specific kitchen tasks—peeling, slicing, grilling, and batch cooking.
Apply by August 27 to be among the first candidates reviewed by the hiring manager.
Ensure your email address is active and regularly monitored, including your spam folder.
Be precise in your questionnaire responses, as these are verified against your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of a CYS Cook?

A CYS Cook is responsible for preparing nutritious meals for children according to USDA guidelines, managing food orders, and maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen environment.

Are benefits included for this position?

Yes, as a regular part-time employee, you are eligible for benefits including health insurance, 401(k) participation, paid time off, and childcare discounts.

Is there a limit to the length of my resume?

Yes, federal regulations for this position mandate that your resume must not exceed two pages.

What is the primary focus of the kitchen team?

We focus on providing healthy, USDA-compliant meals while maintaining a safe, educational, and fun environment for the children in our care.

Is relocation assistance offered?

No, this position does not offer Permanent Change of Station (PCS) cost coverage.

Job from United States Army Installation Management Command

The Child and Youth Services (CYS) branch under the Department of the Army is dedicated to supporting the social, emotional, and academic development of military children. By providing high-quality care and education—including nutritious meal programs—CYS ensures that military families have the support they need to thrive. Our employees are the backbone of this mission, and we pride ourselves on fostering a creative, inclusive, and professional environment.