Launch Your Career as a Store Associate with the Defense Commissary Agency
Are you looking for a stable, mission-driven career that makes a difference in the lives of military service members and their families? The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is currently hiring a Store Associate in Virginia Beach, VA. This is a unique opportunity to join an international organization that supports those who serve our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Store Associate, you will be the backbone of commissary operations. Your daily tasks will include:
- Customer Interaction: Assisting patrons with item locations, pricing, and handling heavy or bulky purchases.
- Checkout Operations: Efficiently operating electronic point-of-sale systems to process sales and manage payments.
- Inventory & Stocking: Maintaining grocery and produce stock levels to ensure shelves are fully supplied.
- Administrative Duties: Managing inventory data, reconciling invoices, and processing documentation for orders.
- Safety Compliance: Adhering to strict sanitation, safety, and security protocols to ensure a safe environment for all.
Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must demonstrate a mix of experience and/or education:
| Qualification Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Experience | One year of clerical, office, or retail work. |
| Education | Two years of education beyond high school. |
| Physicality | Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for long durations. |
| Residency | Must be at least 18 years of age. |
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $17.82 to $23.02. Employees enjoy the security of federal employment and the pride that comes with serving the military community.
Application Tips
Federal applications are unique. To increase your chances of selection:
- Watch the Page Count: Your resume must be exactly two pages or fewer. Longer resumes are disqualified automatically.
- Be Specific: Include the number of hours worked per week for every position on your resume.
- Use PDF format: Uploading your resume as a PDF ensures your formatting stays intact during the digital review.
If you are a dedicated individual looking for a supportive work environment in Virginia Beach, the Defense Commissary Agency is waiting for you. Apply today to start your journey of service.
Why This Store Associate Job Matters
Launch your career with the Defense Commissary Agency! We are seeking a dedicated Store Associate to join our team in Virginia Beach, where you will support military families and provide essential retail services in a fast-paced environment.
Store Associate Job Overview
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is hiring a Store Associate in Virginia Beach, VA. In this role, you will be the face of our commissary, assisting service members and their families with their grocery needs. From managing stock levels and inventory to providing top-tier customer service at the checkout, you will play a vital role in the quality of life for our military community. This is an excellent opportunity to gain federal experience within a mission-driven organization that values diversity, integrity, and service.
Requirements for Store Associate
- One year of progressively responsible clerical, office, or retail experience, or two full years of education above high school.
- Must be able to stand, stoop, kneel, bend, and climb for prolonged periods.
- Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry items weighing up to 40 pounds independently.
- Must be able to successfully pass a background suitability check.
- Must provide all required documentation, including a resume limited to two pages.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
Preferred Qualifications for Store Associate
- Prior experience operating electronic point-of-sale or checkout systems.
- Background in inventory management or warehouse stocking practices.
- Demonstrated ability to perform administrative tasks such as reconciling invoices.
- Experience working in a fast-paced retail or customer-facing environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Opportunities for federal career advancement.
- ✓Contribution to military family readiness and community well-being.
- ✓Structured, mission-focused work environment.
💡 How to Apply Store Associate Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Store Associate Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, following federal formatting guidelines.
- Visit the USAJOBS portal to create or update your profile.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked within the job posting.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including SF-50s or DD-214s if applicable, as PDFs.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 7, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check your resume page count—anything over two pages results in automatic disqualification.
- Clearly list the hours worked per week for every job experience listed in your resume.
- Ensure your document uploads are not password protected or encrypted.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Tailor your resume to specifically reflect the competencies mentioned in the job description.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This position requires an irregular schedule, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, totaling 64 hours biweekly.
Are there any physical requirements for this job?
Yes, you must be able to stand for long periods and lift up to 40 pounds independently.
Do I need a security clearance?
This is a non-sensitive/low-risk position, but it does require a suitability/fitness assessment.
Is this position telework eligible?
No, this role requires physical presence on the commissary floor.
What if I have prior military service?
We encourage veterans to apply; ensure your DD-214 is included in your documentation.
Job from Defense Commissary Agency
The Defense Commissary Agency operates a global network of over 200 commissaries, providing groceries and household goods to military families at significant savings. With a workforce 13,000 strong, DeCA is committed to excellence, integrity, and supporting military readiness. Working here is more than just a retail job; it is a way to give back to the military community while building a strong foundation for your federal career.