Launch Your Culinary Career with the Air Force at Eielson AFB

Are you a skilled culinary professional looking for a unique opportunity to serve your country while living in one of the most beautiful regions in the United States? The 354th Force Support Squadron at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, is currently hiring a dedicated Cook to support our Child and Youth Programs.

Job Responsibilities

As a Cook, your primary responsibility is to manage the flow of the kitchen to provide timely, nutritious meals. Your duties will include:

Food Preparation: Roasting, broiling, baking, steaming, and stewing meats, fish, and poultry.
Recipe Management: Adjusting standardized recipes for different serving sizes and performing yield testing.
Cold Kitchen: Preparing cold platters, hors d'oeuvres, and specialty salad dressings.
Inventory: Managing food storage, ordering, and ensuring proper portion cost controls.

Daily Task Comparison

Feature	Kitchen Duty	Administrative Duty
Frequency	High	Low
Focus	Food quality and timing	Inventory and recipe management
Impact	Immediate customer satisfaction	Long-term budget efficiency

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following:

Experience: Proven background in food preparation principles gained in a restaurant, grill, or similar food service setting.
Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods and lift at least 40 pounds regularly.
Regulatory Compliance: Must be at least 18 years old and eligible for installation access.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $21.92 to $25.57. Beyond the base pay, employees enjoy:

Recruitment Incentives: Potential for up to a $2,000 bonus.
Child Care Discounts: Significant discounts through the Department of the Air Force Child and Youth Programs.
Community Perks: Access to base facilities and a supportive team environment.

How to Apply

Applications are reviewed weekly. We highly recommend submitting your application as early as possible. Ensure your resume highlights your specific experience in food prep and kitchen management. Visit the USAJobs portal to complete the questionnaire and attach your documents.

Working as a Cook at Eielson AFB is more than just a job; it is a chance to be part of a mission that supports the strength and well-being of the Air Force community. If you are ready to elevate your culinary career in Alaska, submit your application today.

Why This Cook Job Matters

Launch your culinary career with the Department of the Air Force at Eielson AFB, where you'll serve those who serve while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska.

Cook Job Overview

The 354th Force Support Squadron is seeking a dedicated Cook to join our team at the School Age Center on Eielson Air Force Base. This Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position is vital to our mission, ensuring high-quality meal preparation for our community. You will work in a fast-paced environment, planning and executing complete meals, managing inventory, and contributing to the well-being of military families. This role offers a unique opportunity to live and work in the beautiful Fairbanks region.

Requirements for Cook

Must be 18 years of age or older.
Experience in food preparation principles, including roasting, baking, grilling, and steaming.
Knowledge of kitchen planning processes to ensure timely meal service.
Ability to perform yield testing and adjust recipes for portion control.
Proficiency in food storage and inventory ordering procedures.
Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods.
Capability to lift up to 40 pounds frequently and occasionally more.
Must be able to provide proof of identity for installation access.

Preferred Qualifications for Cook

Prior professional cooking experience in restaurants, grills, snack bars, or clubs.
Demonstrated ability to prepare complex meals including sauces, dressings, and garnishes.
Successful history in maintaining kitchen sanitation and safety standards.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly wages ($21.92 - $25.57)
✓Child care discounts for Department of the Air Force Child and Youth Programs
✓Potential for recruitment incentive bonuses up to $2,000
✓Access to MWR activities and facilities
✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of the Air Force

💡 How to Apply Cook Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Cook Job

Create or log into your USAJobs account.
Prepare your resume detailing relevant culinary experience.
Review the job announcement and complete the online questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents, including certifications or military paperwork if applicable.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
Monitor your status through the USAJobs dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in high-volume food prep.
List contact information for professional references clearly.
Review your application package for completeness to avoid disqualification.
Submit early, as applications are pulled every Friday at 8:00 AM.
Sanitize sensitive information like SSNs from uploaded documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a federal civil service position?

This is a Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position within the Air Force, supporting Morale, Welfare and Recreation activities.

What is the work schedule?

The position is located at the School Age Center, typically operating Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with occasional weekend or extended hours.

What is a NAF position?

A Non-Appropriated Fund position is funded by the revenue generated by MWR activities rather than tax dollars.

Can I apply if I am not a veteran?

Yes, this position is open to the public.

Job from Pacific Air Forces

The Department of the Air Force provides essential support services to military personnel and their families. Our Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) positions play a critical role in Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities. Located just minutes from Fairbanks and North Pole, Alaska, Eielson AFB offers a stunning backdrop of the Midnight Sun, vibrant autumn foliage, and the spectacular Aurora Borealis.