Become a Meatcutter with the Defense Commissary Agency at Eielson AFB

Are you a skilled butcher or meat processor looking for a stable, mission-focused career? The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is currently hiring a Meatcutter to work at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. This position is vital to the commissary's mission of providing quality food products to our service members and their families. If you are passionate about precision, safety, and community service, this may be the perfect role for you.

Job Responsibilities

As a Meatcutter, you will perform a wide range of tasks associated with processing beef, pork, veal, and lamb. Your primary responsibilities include:

Transforming bulk carcasses and primals into retail-ready cuts.
Operating power meat cutting equipment safely and efficiently.
Ensuring all meat preparation areas meet strict sanitation standards.
Advising customers on proper meat storage, thawing times, and cooking techniques.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Ability to lift/push/pull 50-100 lbs using equipment.
Capacity to work in cold environments (-10 to 50°F).
Ability to pass a drug screen.
Submission of a compliant 2-page federal resume.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage reflecting the cost of living and the expertise required for the role.

Pay Period	Salary Range
Hourly	$34.07 - $39.74

Note: Alaska positions may also qualify for a nonforeign area Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), which is exempt from federal income tax.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides substantial benefits, including:

Comprehensive health insurance options.
Retirement plans (FERS).
Competitive leave policies.
A supportive workplace culture focused on diversity and inclusion.

Application Tips

Mind the Page Limit: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Over-length resumes will be rejected.
Be Specific: Explicitly state your hours worked per week in your employment history.
Use PDFs: Upload all documents as PDFs to ensure they are readable and properly formatted.
Check Eligibility: Select all eligibility categories you qualify for (e.g., Veteran, Military Spouse) to ensure you are considered correctly.

Serving as a Meatcutter at Eielson AFB is a rewarding way to apply your trade skills while directly supporting military families. With a competitive salary and excellent federal benefits, this is an opportunity to build a long-term career. Review the requirements, prepare your documentation, and submit your application before the closing date to be considered for this vital role.

Why This Meatcutter Job Matters

Join the Defense Commissary Agency team at Eielson Air Force Base and play a vital role in supporting military families through expert meat processing and customer service excellence.

Meatcutter Job Overview

The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is seeking a skilled Meatcutter to support operations at Eielson AFB, Alaska. In this role, you will be responsible for processing a variety of meats—including beef, pork, veal, and lamb—into retail-ready cuts while maintaining the highest standards of safety, sanitation, and quality. You will also serve as a knowledgeable resource for commissary patrons regarding storage, preparation, and cooking techniques. This position offers a competitive hourly wage and the opportunity to support the quality of life for service members and their families.

Requirements for Meatcutter

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must be able to perform physical labor, including walking and standing for extended periods.
Must be capable of frequently lifting, pushing, and pulling bulk meat items weighing 50 to 100 pounds using manual equipment.
Ability to work in cold storage environments ranging from -10 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages in PDF format.
Must complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Must comply with federal drug-free workplace policies.
Must pass all pre-employment screening and onboarding requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Meatcutter

Experience in a retail or production meat cutting environment.
Demonstrated ability to perform specialized cuts, such as crown roasts.
Strong knowledge of food sanitation, safety protocols, and proper equipment handling.
Proven track record of working effectively with minimal supervision.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay
✓Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for Alaska residents (tax-exempt)
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
✓Support for military families
✓Stable work environment within the Department of Defense

💡 How to Apply Meatcutter Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Meatcutter Job

Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS.
Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a federal-style resume limited to two pages (PDF format).
Gather required documentation, including SF-50s or proof of eligibility (DD-214, etc.).
Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire.
Submit your application package before the deadline of September 14, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
Clearly define your work hours per week (e.g., '40 hours per week') to ensure your application is considered complete.
Save all documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
Submit early to account for potential technical delays or system scans.
Use the specific self-certification checklists for any hiring preferences you are claiming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a security clearance required?

No, this position is categorized as non-sensitive/low risk.

What is the work schedule?

This role follows an irregular schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays.

Can I use education to qualify for this job?

No, this position is based on your practical ability and experience in meat cutting; education does not substitute for the required skill set.

Is remote work an option?

No, this position requires physical on-site presence at the commissary.

What if I have prior federal service?

You should include your most recent SF-50 in your application package to verify your status.

Job from Defense Commissary Agency

The Defense Commissary Agency operates a global chain of over 200 grocery stores, providing a unique benefit that saves military families thousands of dollars annually. With over 13,000 employees, DeCA is committed to supporting military readiness and quality of life. Working here means more than just a job; it means being part of a team that honors the service of our nation's military.