Serving Those Who Served: Food Service Worker Careers at the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for food service with a commitment to service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hiring Food Service Workers to join the Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide compassionate, high-quality care to the men and women who have defended our country. If you are detail-oriented, hard-working, and ready to make an impact, we invite you to explore this opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As a Food Service Worker, your daily tasks are vital to the smooth operation of our medical center. Key duties include:
- Food Preparation: Assisting with simple food and beverage preparation.
- Service: Portioning and serving food to patients and customers.
- Sanitation: Maintaining clean work areas, operating mechanical dishwashers, and scrubbing kitchen equipment.
- Inventory: Receiving and storing deliveries, ensuring all food items are correctly dated and handled according to safety procedures.
Physical Requirements
| Task Type | Frequency/Constraint |
|---|---|
| Standing/Walking | Continuous |
| Lifting/Moving Objects | Up to 40 lbs |
| Bending/Stooping | Frequent |
| Repetitive Motion | Long periods (sanitation/tray line) |
Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and able to pass a standard federal background investigation. Because this position involves patient safety, we require adherence to strict hygiene and sanitation standards. Additionally, you will serve a one-year probationary period during which your performance will be evaluated.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $22.86 to $26.66 per hour, commensurate with the Federal Wage System standards.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a unique sense of security and stability. Employees benefit from a structured environment, opportunities for professional growth within the VHA, and the rewarding experience of serving the Veteran community.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Federal resumes for this position must be capped at two pages.
- Be Specific: Do not leave room for assumptions. Clearly describe your past experience and the hours worked per week.
- Use PDF: Upload your resume as a PDF to ensure your formatting remains consistent.
- Monitor Status: Check your USAJOBS account regularly for updates on your application status.
A career with the Veterans Health Administration is a meaningful way to contribute to your community. By ensuring our Veterans receive high-quality, safe, and nutritious meals, you are a critical part of their healing environment. Apply today to start your journey with the VA in Los Angeles.
Why This Food Service Worker Job Matters
Join the Veterans Health Administration in Los Angeles and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation.
Food Service Worker Job Overview
The Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System is seeking dedicated Food Service Workers to join our Nutrition & Food Service team. In this role, you will be responsible for providing high-quality food service, maintaining strict safety and sanitation standards, and delivering exceptional customer care to our Veterans. This is an essential position that directly contributes to the well-being and health of the patients we serve.
Requirements for Food Service Worker
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be able to pass a background and suitability investigation.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must successfully complete a one-year probationary period.
- Must provide identification that is REAL ID compliant.
- Must be able to perform physically demanding tasks including lifting/pushing up to 40 pounds and extended periods of standing/walking.
Preferred Qualifications for Food Service Worker
- Experience in institutional food service or high-volume food preparation.
- Knowledge of food safety protocols and sanitation practices.
- Ability to work effectively within a team-oriented environment.
- Demonstrated reliability and commitment to customer service.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Opportunity to contribute to a national mission
- ✓Federal career stability
- ✓Potential for annual leave accrual credit for prior related experience
- ✓Collaborative healthcare environment
💡 How to Apply Food Service Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Food Service Worker Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages.
- Upload required documentation, including your resume and any relevant certifications.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of 10/23/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your format meets federal standards.
- Focus your resume on accomplishments rather than just duties.
- Be specific about your hours per week for part-time work to ensure proper credit.
- Double-check your application for missing documents before hitting submit.
- Ensure your resume file is under 5MB and saved in a standard format like PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prior experience required?
While no specific duration is required, you must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of the position through your resume.
What is the work schedule?
This is a part-time position with a schedule to be determined.
Can I submit a long resume?
No, federal regulations require resumes to be no more than two pages for this vacancy.
What is the closing date for this position?
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on October 23, 2026.
Are there any specific document requirements?
A resume is required. Depending on your background, documents like a DD-214 or SF-50 may also be needed.
Is this role eligible for telework?
No, this is an on-site position requiring physical presence in the food service department.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is clear: to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional care that improves their health and well-being. By joining our team, you become a partner in the Whole Health System, an innovative approach that focuses on the individual needs of every Veteran we serve.