Nourishing the Future: Join the Navy CYP Culinary Team
Are you looking for a career that combines your culinary skills with a commitment to service? The Navy Child and Youth Programs (CYP) is seeking a dedicated Cook for the Regatta Child Development Center in Oak Harbor, Washington. This position is more than just cooking; it is an essential service that supports military readiness by providing nutritious, high-quality meals to children.
Job Responsibilities
As a CYP Cook, you will manage the end-to-end process of meal service, including:
- Food Preparation: Cooking high-quality meals (meats, vegetables, and more) following standardized recipes.
- Quality Control: Adjusting recipes for serving sizes, maintaining temperature safety, and ensuring peak taste and texture.
- Sanitation: Maintaining immaculate kitchen standards to prevent cross-contamination and meet health regulations.
- Compliance: Ensuring adherence to USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines.
Skills Comparison Table
| Skill Category | Key Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Culinary Execution | Large-scale meal production and recipe scaling |
| Safety & Sanitation | Maintaining temperatures and hygiene standards |
| Administration | Labeling, dating, and inventory control |
Requirements
You must provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and have a solid foundation in food safety practices. Applicants will be screened based on their ability to manage complex cooking steps and their interpersonal skills.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $29.25 and $34.11. Beyond the paycheck, the Department of the Navy offers:
- Excellent health insurance packages.
- Retirement savings opportunities.
- Significant paid time off.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional training.
Working for the Navy CYP at NAS Whidbey Island offers a stable, rewarding career path. If you are passionate about food service and supporting the children of our service members, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Child & Youth Program Cook Job Matters
Turn your culinary passion into a career that supports our military families. Join the Navy Child and Youth Programs team as a Cook at NAS Whidbey Island!
Child & Youth Program Cook Job Overview
The Child and Youth Program (CYP) Cook plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive nutritious, high-quality meals in a safe environment. Based at the Regatta Child Development Center in Oak Harbor, Washington, this position is essential to the daily operations of our youth programs. You will be responsible for full-scale food production, kitchen maintenance, and strict adherence to health and safety standards while supporting the needs of our military community.
Requirements for Child & Youth Program Cook
- High School Diploma or GED (must provide copy)
- Knowledge of food handling techniques and personal hygiene
- Ability to cook in large quantities following standardized recipes
- Proficiency in sanitation standards and cross-contamination prevention
- Effective verbal and written English communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills for team coordination
Preferred Qualifications for Child & Youth Program Cook
- Prior experience in large-scale food service production
- Experience with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards
- Demonstrated ability to adapt recipes for varying serving sizes and equipment
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wages
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans
- ✓Paid time off (starting at 13 days per year)
- ✓Professional training and industry certification support
💡 How to Apply Child & Youth Program Cook Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Child & Youth Program Cook Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and required documents.
- Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages).
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all supporting documentation by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; adhere strictly to the two-page limit.
- Ensure all educational documents (diploma/transcripts) are attached before submission.
- Check for accuracy in your contact information to ensure you receive status updates.
- Review your answers to the questionnaire carefully as they determine your eligibility.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum length for my resume?
Your resume must be limited to two pages. The online system will restrict the submission of longer documents.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all individuals in Department of Navy child care roles must complete an Installation Records Check (IRC) and meet specific suitability requirements.
Do I need a degree for this role?
No, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement.
Is there a drug test?
Yes, the Department of the Navy is a drug-free workplace, and illegal drug use is strictly prohibited.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) operates world-class programs across 19 states and international locations. Our mission is to support the men and women of the Navy by providing a safe, reliable environment for their children. By joining our team, you gain access to professional growth, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of knowing your work directly benefits military families.