Become a Cook at Dyess Air Force Base
Are you looking to turn your passion for cooking into a rewarding career? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a motivated Cook to join the team at the Dyess AFB Bowling Center. This is a unique opportunity to support the men and women of our armed forces while honing your culinary skills in a professional setting.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cook, you will handle a wide variety of tasks, ensuring that service members and their families receive high-quality meals. Your daily duties will include:
- Preparing items such as burgers, pancakes, eggs, and breakfast meats.
- Creating soups, sauces, and gravies from scratch or concentrates.
- Managing the salad bar and portioning food for service.
- Cleaning and maintaining kitchen equipment to strict health standards.
- Handling, storing, and labeling leftovers according to safety procedures.
Comparison: Standard Restaurant vs. Air Force NAF Cook
| Feature | Standard Restaurant | Air Force NAF Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Environment | Commercial | Military/Base Community |
| Mission | Profit-driven | Morale & Welfare focused |
| Benefits | Varies by employer | Access to MWR/Fitness facilities |
| Schedule | Highly variable | Stable, mission-focused |
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you must be physically capable of standing for long periods and lifting up to 40 pounds. You must also demonstrate an ability to follow specific procedures for food safety and preparation. All applicants must be able to obtain a Food Handler’s Certificate and pass a background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $19.96. Additionally, employees gain access to the base's recreational facilities, including the fitness center, swimming pools, and the bowling center.
How to Apply
Application for this position must be completed through the official USAJobs portal. Ensure your resume is up-to-date and reflects your relevant experience in food preparation.
Joining the Air Force NAF team as a Cook is more than just a job; it is a way to serve those who serve us. If you are ready to start your journey at Dyess AFB, submit your application today!
Why This Cook Job Matters
Bring your passion for cooking to the Air Force! Join the team at Dyess AFB and help provide quality service to our military community.
Cook Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Cook for a Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position located at the Bowling Center on Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas. This flexible-category role is perfect for culinary enthusiasts looking to contribute to the morale and welfare of service members while working in a supportive, family-oriented environment.
Requirements for Cook
- Must be able to lift objects weighing up to 40 pounds frequently.
- Must be able to stand, walk, stoop, reach, push, pull, and bend for extended periods.
- Ability to follow both oral and written instructions.
- Basic arithmetic skills.
- Must obtain a Food Handler's Certificate.
- Ability to complete a Tier 1 Background Investigation.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical.
- U.S. citizenship or specific residency requirements met.
Preferred Qualifications for Cook
- Proven experience in professional food preparation (grill, snack bar, or restaurant).
- Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and equipment maintenance.
- Ability to manage food presentation and portion control effectively.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Access to Dyess AFB fitness center
- ✓Access to bowling center facilities
- ✓Access to installation swimming pools
- ✓Participation in Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities
💡 How to Apply Cook Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cook Job
- Register for a USAJobs account if you do not have one.
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting your culinary experience.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including proof of eligibility if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with food preparation and safety.
- Review your application for completeness before hitting submit; missing documents result in disqualification.
- Sanitize sensitive documents, such as marriage certificates or military orders, of third-party personal information before uploading.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJobs dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the general public?
Yes, this position is open to the public, though applicants may be prioritized based on specific preferences such as military spouse status or veteran status.
What is the pay for this position?
The position pays $19.96 per hour.
What does a NAF position mean?
NAF stands for Non-Appropriated Fund. These positions support Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs for Air Force service members and their families.
Do I need a culinary degree?
*A: No, formal education can be substituted with experience in food service activities such as snack bars, restaurants, or club kitchens.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, PCS costs are not authorized for this position.*
Job from Air Force Global Strike Command
The Air Force Services Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) team is dedicated to providing quality Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) services to Air Force and Space Force personnel. By joining this team, you become an essential part of the Dyess AFB community, located in beautiful Abilene, Texas—a city renowned for its support of the military, vibrant culture, and family-friendly atmosphere.