Serving Those Who Served: Join the VA Culinary Team
Are you a dedicated culinary professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for a skilled Cook to join the Nutrition and Food Service team at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Tacoma, Washington. This is more than just a kitchen job; it is a vital support role that ensures our Veterans receive the high-quality, nutritious meals they need for their care and recovery.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for the preparation and assembly of meals for both regular and therapeutic diets. Your daily tasks will include:
- Preparing diverse menu items including meats, poultry, and fish using techniques such as grilling, roasting, and steaming.
- Following production sheets and recipes to ensure accurate portioning.
- Maintaining rigorous sanitation and safety standards to prevent foodborne illness.
- Operating and cleaning industrial kitchen equipment.
- Creating desserts and adjusting consistency for specialized dietary needs.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal employment standards:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is generally required.
- Resume: You must submit a resume that is no longer than two pages.
- Probation: A 1-year probationary period is required.
- Vaccination: Participation in the annual influenza program is mandatory.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Position Level | WG-6 |
| Salary Range | $29.77 - $34.68/hr |
| Application Deadline | August 26, 2026 |
| Location | Tacoma, WA |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers competitive hourly compensation ranging from $29.77 to $34.68. Beyond the hourly pay, working for the federal government provides a stable work-life balance and the pride that comes with serving the Veteran community.
Application Tips for Success
- Strict Page Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to help manage this requirement.
- Be Specific: Do not leave gaps in your work history. Include dates, hours per week, and detailed descriptions of your cooking duties.
- Use PDF: Always save your final application documents as PDFs to maintain professional formatting.
If you are a cook with a passion for quality and a desire to serve, this position with the VA offers a unique opportunity to grow your career while supporting our Veterans. Submit your application before the August 26, 2026 deadline to be considered for this essential role.
Why This Cook Job Matters
Elevate your culinary career at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, where your passion for cooking directly improves the lives of our nation's heroes.
Cook Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Cook for the Nutrition and Food Service department at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Tacoma, Washington. In this role, you will be an integral part of a complex, top-tier healthcare facility, preparing high-quality, nutritious meals for Veteran patients. You will balance therapeutic dietary needs with food service standards, ensuring every meal meets the VA’s high expectations for quality and care.
Requirements for Cook
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
- Ability to perform duties as outlined, supported by a detailed resume.
- Submission of a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Completion of an online occupational questionnaire.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Annual seasonal influenza vaccination (or approved exemption).
- Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. unassisted and use lifting devices for heavier items.
Preferred Qualifications for Cook
- Experience in institutional or large-scale food preparation.
- Demonstrated ability to follow therapeutic diet menus (e.g., gluten-free, low-sodium, diabetic).
- Proficiency in sanitation and safety practices in a commercial kitchen.
- Experience operating industrial kitchen machinery and dishwashing equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Opportunities for federal career advancement
- ✓Structured, professional work environment
- ✓Potential for credit for non-federal experience toward annual leave accrual
- ✓Comprehensive federal employee support system
💡 How to Apply Cook Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cook Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including proof of any claimed credentials.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of August 26, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the strict two-page limit.
- Save and upload your documents as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Focus your resume on skills and competencies relevant to food service rather than outdated experience.
- Check your application status regularly by logging into your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum page length for my resume?
As of September 2025, federal agencies require resumes to be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will result in ineligibility.
Do I need a formal culinary degree?
No, a specific length of training is not required, but you must provide clear evidence of your ability to perform the duties of the position in your resume.
Are Veterans' preference rules applied?
Because this position is filled using Direct-Hire Authority, traditional Veterans' preference rules do not apply; however, qualified veterans are given full consideration.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is one of the most complex and respected healthcare networks in the United States. Committed to the "I CARE" values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—the VA provides world-class care to those who have served in our nation's military. By joining this team, you become part of a mission-driven organization that values your contributions and offers stable, rewarding career paths.