Launch Your Retail Management Career with the Defense Commissary Agency
Are you looking to transition your retail expertise into a stable, mission-driven career? The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is currently seeking an Assistant Grocery Department Manager to join the team in Meridian, Mississippi. This is a unique opportunity to lead operational excellence in a setting that directly supports the quality of life for military service members and their families.
Job Responsibilities
The Assistant Grocery Department Manager plays a central role in the daily efficiency of the store. Your key responsibilities include:
- Merchandising Management: Executing store space allocation and product display programs.
- Inventory Control: Monitoring stocking, receiving, and ordering processes to minimize 'not-in-stock' items.
- Team Supervision: Assigning tasks to staff, balancing workloads, and overseeing department performance.
- Facility Oversight: Inspecting store equipment and coordinating necessary maintenance.
- Safety Compliance: Enforcing rigorous safety standards and ensuring a secure shopping environment for patrons.
Comparison of Retail Environments
| Feature | Commercial Retail | Military Commissary (DeCA) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Profit Maximization | Military Family Support |
| Culture | Competitive Sales | Mission-Driven Service |
| Work Environment | High Pressure | Structured & Supportive |
| Benefits | Varies | Comprehensive Federal |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-7 position, candidates must demonstrate specialized experience in retail food store management. This includes:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or equivalent in a retail environment.
- Education: A full year of graduate-level education in fields such as business or food industry management may be substituted for experience.
- Physical Standards: Ability to lift up to 40 pounds unassisted and navigate the store environment comfortably.
- Documentation: A two-page maximum resume is required. Failing to adhere to this limit will result in disqualification.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $50,460 to $65,599 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy the benefits of federal service, which include health insurance, life insurance, and a robust retirement plan through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Application Tips
- Follow Instructions: Do not exceed the two-page resume limit.
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights the specific number of hours worked per week for each role.
- Use the Questionnaire: Your responses to the online questionnaire are weighted heavily; ensure they reflect your actual experience.
- Submit Early: Give yourself ample time for the system to scan your documents for viruses.
This role offers more than just a job; it is a chance to use your retail management skills in service to the military community. If you meet the requirements and are ready for a new challenge, apply through USAJOBS today.
Why This Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job Matters
Launch your career in retail leadership with the Defense Commissary Agency! We are seeking an Assistant Grocery Department Manager in Meridian, Mississippi, to help support military families by managing world-class commissary operations.
Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job Overview
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is hiring an Assistant Grocery Department Manager in Meridian, Mississippi. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth, efficient operation of our grocery department, where you will lead staff, optimize inventory, and ensure our military patrons receive the high-quality service they deserve. You will oversee merchandising, supply stocking, and department safety while contributing to a mission that supports our nation’s heroes.
Requirements for Assistant Grocery Department Manager
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet specialized experience or education requirements by the closing date.
- Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting up to 40 pounds unassisted.
- Current federal employees must meet time-in-grade and 90-day competitive appointment requirements.
- Ability to work an irregular tour of duty, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Must pass a background check for a Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS) position.
- Resume must not exceed the strict two-page limit.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant Grocery Department Manager
- Experience in managing or supervising operations in a supermarket or retail food environment.
- Proven track record in developing retail merchandising and inventory policies.
- Demonstrated ability to train and lead diverse teams in a retail setting.
- Graduate-level education in business administration, public administration, or food industry management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Stable work environment supporting military service members.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Commissary Career Program.
- ✓Access to the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
💡 How to Apply Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
- Upload a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit and includes detailed job descriptions with hours worked.
- Submit your online application through the USAJOBS portal before the deadline.
- Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire integrated into the application process.
- Provide supporting documentation such as SF-50 forms for current or former federal employees.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates, hours per week, and detailed duties for every position listed.
- Double-check your eligibility and include all required supporting documents in a single submission.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to allow time for the system to scan your documents.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 is uploaded with your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Can I work remotely in this position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or remote status as it requires direct, on-site supervision of commissary operations.
How is the specialized experience calculated?
Experience is calculated based on your background in retail food management, including procurement, distribution, and store-level operations. You may combine experience and graduate-level education to meet the requirements.
Are there relocation benefits?
Yes, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is authorized for this position.
What is the security clearance level?
The position requires a Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS) background check.
Job from Defense Commissary Agency
The Defense Commissary Agency operates a global network of stores that provide groceries and household goods to military personnel, retirees, and their families. As an international grocery chain, DeCA is mission-critical to the military community, managing over $4 billion in annual sales. Joining DeCA means becoming part of a diverse workforce of over 13,000 employees dedicated to serving those who serve our country.