Launch Your Culinary Career with FEMA as a Cook Leader
Are you an experienced culinary professional with a passion for leadership? FEMA is offering an exciting opportunity to serve as a Cook Leader at the prestigious Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center in Round Hill, Virginia. This role is more than just a job; it is a vital component of our nation’s emergency response infrastructure.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cook Leader, you will supervise up to 25 staff members, ensuring that the food service section operates smoothly. Key responsibilities include:
- Instructing team members on safe cooking and sanitation procedures.
- Managing quantity cooking, including the adjustment of recipes for volume.
- Performing short-order cooking for high-traffic meal periods.
- Operating and maintaining industrial kitchen equipment.
- Managing cash registers and daily shift closing procedures.
Daily Operational Comparison
| Feature | Cook Leader Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Staff Management | Supervises up to 25 food service staff members |
| Technical Skills | Recipe adjustment, short-order cooking, sanitation |
| Environment | Hot, fast-paced kitchen; requires high hygiene standards |
| Emergency Status | Subject to recall; works during drills and activations |
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to lead a food service team, as this is a primary screen-out factor. Additional requirements include:
- US Citizenship.
- Successful completion of a Top Secret background investigation.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical.
- Flexibility to deploy to emergency sites with little notice.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal wage system compensation, ranging from $34.37 to $39.99 per hour, reflecting the expertise and leadership responsibilities required for this role.
Benefits
FEMA employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Flexible spending accounts and employee assistance programs.
- Access to on-site fitness centers and wellness programs.
- Tuition reimbursement options.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, your resume must be clear and detailed. Include specific dates (MM/YY) and hours worked for every position. Do not exceed the two-page limit, and ensure you directly address how your experience meets the supervisory requirements listed in the announcement.
Serving as a Cook Leader at FEMA allows you to utilize your culinary skills in a unique environment where your work directly supports those tasked with protecting our nation. Apply today and contribute to a mission that makes a difference.
Why This Cook Leader Job Matters
Join the FEMA Mount Weather team as a Cook Leader and play a vital role in keeping our emergency operations workforce ready and fueled for mission-critical tasks.
Cook Leader Job Overview
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking a dedicated Cook Leader for the Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center in Round Hill, Virginia. This position oversees a team of up to twenty-five food service staff, ensuring high-quality meal preparation, sanitation, and efficient kitchen operations in a unique, high-security environment.
Requirements for Cook Leader
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government credit card
- Completion of a pre-employment physical examination
- Must be subject to random drug testing as a Testing Designated Position (TDP)
- Ability to deploy on short notice to various locations for extended periods
- Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable)
Preferred Qualifications for Cook Leader
- Proven experience in large-scale quantity cooking and recipe modification
- Strong leadership capabilities for supervising food service staff
- Proficiency in food safety, sanitation, and kitchen equipment maintenance
- Experience in register operations and cash handling procedures
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with government match
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave
- ✓Fitness center and wellness programs
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development
- ✓Flexible work schedules
💡 How to Apply Cook Leader Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cook Leader Job
- Register or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a federal resume limited to two pages.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your resume, SF-50 (if applicable), and veteran documentation.
- Ensure all documents are in English and legible.
- Finalize and submit your application before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes exact start and end dates (MM/YY) for all relevant work experience.
- Quantify your experience by noting how many hours you worked per week.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for optimal formatting.
- Clearly highlight your leadership and supervisory experience as it is a screen-out factor.
- Proofread your application to ensure no personally identifiable information (PII) is included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Top Secret clearance required for this role?
Yes, this is a critical-sensitive position, and candidates must successfully pass and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
What is the work environment like at the Mount Weather facility?
The work occurs in kitchen and office areas that may be hot or noisy. You may be required to work above or below ground and must be prepared for emergency deployments.
Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Will I need to relocate?
While the position is based in Round Hill, VA, emergency management support may require travel to various locations.
Is there a drug test?
Yes, as this is a Testing Designated Position, you are subject to random drug testing.
Job from Federal Emergency Management Agency
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FEMA are dedicated to safeguarding our nation. At the Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center, we provide essential support for mission partners in both classified and unclassified environments. Our facility, situated in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, serves as a hub for disaster preparedness and resilience.