Become a Cook with the Air Force Special Operations Command
Are you a culinary professional looking to make an impact while working in one of the most beautiful locations in the United States? The Air Force Special Operations Command is looking for a skilled Cook to join the team at The Soundside Club on Hurlburt Field, Florida.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will do more than just follow recipes. Your daily duties will include:
- Food Preparation: Expertly roasting, broiling, baking, frying, and steaming meats, fish, and poultry.
- Recipe Management: Adjusting standardized recipes for volume and performing yield testing to ensure cost-efficiency.
- Menu Planning: Coordinating the cooking of various menu items to ensure hot, high-quality meals are served on schedule.
- Culinary Artistry: Preparing cold platters, salads, and hors d'oeuvres, including creative vegetable and fruit garnishes.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate the following:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | Proven ability in food preparation principles and kitchen workflows. |
| Physical Ability | Ability to lift 40 lbs frequently and stand for long shifts. |
| Documentation | Must submit a resume and proof of any hiring preferences by 10/15/2026. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers an hourly rate of $21.69. As a federal employee with the Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) system, you will gain access to Hurlburt Field facilities. After one year of service, you will qualify for additional benefits including paid parental leave and tuition assistance.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly states your previous experience in commercial kitchens.
- Check Deadlines: Your application must be complete by October 15, 2026.
- Verify Documentation: Ensure all required forms are uploaded, as incomplete packages will not be considered.
Joining the Hurlburt Field team means contributing to the well-being of the Air Commandos who protect our nation. If you are ready for a stable, rewarding career in a world-class environment, apply today via the USAJobs platform.
Why This Cook Job Matters
Launch your culinary career on the Emerald Coast! Join the Air Force Special Operations Command team at The Soundside Club as a Cook and serve those who serve.
Cook Job Overview
The 1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron is seeking a dedicated Cook for The Soundside Club at Hurlburt Field, Florida. This position is vital to our mission, providing high-quality food service for our active-duty personnel, families, and retirees. You will work in a fast-paced environment, applying your culinary expertise to prepare full meals and maintain high standards of food safety and presentation.
Requirements for Cook
- Proven experience in food preparation and knowledge of various cooking techniques (roasting, baking, frying, etc.).
- Ability to adjust standardized recipes and perform yield testing for portion control.
- Understanding of food storage, issuance, and kitchen inventory procedures.
- Physical capability to lift up to 40 pounds frequently and occasionally more.
- Ability to endure long periods of standing, walking, and bending in a high-demand kitchen.
- Must be able to provide documentation for all claimed hiring preferences by the application deadline.
Preferred Qualifications for Cook
- Professional experience in a restaurant, grill, snack bar, or club environment.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex meal preparation with multiple cooking times.
- Experience in creative food presentation, including carving vegetables and fruits for garnishes.
- Strong organizational skills for managing kitchen workflow.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Access to Hurlburt Field FSS facilities.
- ✓12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave (after 1 year of employment).
- ✓Tuition Assistance programs.
- ✓Career growth opportunities within the Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) system.
💡 How to Apply Cook Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cook Job
- Log in or create a USAJobs account.
- Prepare a resume that highlights relevant food service experience.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, military service records, certifications).
- Review your application package for accuracy.
- Submit your application before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on October 15, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- List specific examples of your cooking experience, including the types of equipment you have used.
- Ensure your resume includes dates of employment and clear descriptions of your duties to support your qualification claims.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information from supporting documents before uploading, if necessary.
- Check your application status regularly via your USAJobs dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, a security clearance is not required for this role.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The position is not guaranteed a set number of hours and may be scheduled for 0 to 40 hours per week depending on operational needs.
Can I use education to substitute for the required experience?
No, this position requires practical experience and does not allow for education substitution.
Job from Air Force Special Operations Command
Hurlburt Field is located on the stunning Florida Emerald Coast, nestled between Pensacola Beach and Destin. As home to the Air Force Special Operations Command, the installation supports thousands of active-duty personnel, families, and retirees. The 1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron (SOFSS) is dedicated to providing top-tier morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) activities, and our dining facilities are a cornerstone of that mission.