Become a Cook with the Indian Health Service in Browning, Montana

Are you a dedicated culinary professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a motivated Cook to support our Blackfeet Service Unit in Browning, Montana. This position is vital to our mission of providing high-quality healthcare and nutritional support to American Indians and Alaska Natives.

About the Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service is a federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Our mission is to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. We operate in diverse environments, and our staff members are known for being compassionate, creative, and enthusiastic about providing excellent care.

Job Responsibilities

As a Cook, you will work within the Branch of Dietary Services. Your daily tasks will include:

Preparing and serving nutritious meals for patients and treatment center individuals.
Managing food inventory to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.
Setting up patient trays according to dietary kardex instructions.
Assisting in the receiving, storage, and maintenance of kitchen and dietary supplies.
Ensuring the kitchen and storage areas remain clean, sanitary, and well-organized.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants must demonstrate their ability to perform kitchen duties independently. You must be a U.S. citizen and successfully clear a federal background investigation and fingerprint check. Additionally, you must be able to maintain good standing with creditors, as a financial suitability review is part of the hiring process.

Salary and Benefits Overview

This position offers a stable income and the benefits of federal employment. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect:

Feature	Details
Salary	$28.60 - $33.36 Per Hour
Location	Browning, MT
Benefits	Federal Health, Leave Accrual, Retirement
Commitment	Full-Time Professional Environment

Application Tips

Success in federal hiring depends heavily on the details. Ensure your resume highlights your specific duties and the number of hours worked per week. If you are claiming Indian Preference, make sure to attach the completed BIA-4432 form to avoid delays. Always double-check that your uploaded documents are legible and that your questionnaire answers are fully supported by your professional history.

If you are ready to apply your skills in a setting that values community and service, this role with the Indian Health Service is a fantastic opportunity. Apply today to begin your journey with a team that truly cares about the health and wellness of the populations we serve.

Why This Cook Job Matters

Join the Indian Health Service in Browning, MT, where your culinary skills directly support the wellness of the American Indian and Alaska Native community.

Cook Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Cook to join the Branch of Dietary Services at the Blackfeet Service Unit in Browning, Montana. This role is essential to our mission, ensuring that patients and treatment center members receive high-quality, nutritious meals. As a valued member of our healthcare team, you will handle independent cooking duties, manage food inventories, and maintain a safe, sanitary kitchen environment. This is an excellent opportunity to apply your culinary expertise in a meaningful, community-focused professional setting.

Requirements for Cook

U.S. Citizenship
Must be able to pass a pre-employment fingerprint check and background investigation
Must pass an E-Verify employment verification check
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Must meet all qualifications within 30 days of the closing date
Demonstration of ability to perform work without more than normal supervision
Must be suitable for Federal employment based on background check and financial history

Preferred Qualifications for Cook

Experience in meal preparation and service in a professional, dietary, or clinical setting
Strong understanding of food inventory management and sanitation standards
Ability to interpret dietary instructions and kardex systems
Proficiency in maintaining safe and clean food storage areas

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and pay scale
✓Annual leave accrual based on years of federal service
✓Potential credit for previous non-federal or military experience for leave accrual
✓Comprehensive health insurance and benefit programs
✓Opportunity to work in a collaborative, mission-driven environment

💡 How to Apply Cook Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Cook Job

Create or update your account on USAJOBS.gov
Prepare a detailed resume highlighting relevant hours per week and duties
Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked in the announcement
Upload all required documents, including proof of eligibility if applicable
Submit your complete application package via the Apply Online button by the deadline
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account dashboard

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly lists the number of hours worked per week for every position.
Do not wait until the final hours on the closing date to apply to avoid technical issues.
Verify that all uploaded documents are legible and clearly labeled.
If claiming Indian Preference, ensure you include form BIA-4432.
Read the questionnaire carefully; your resume must support your self-rated qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

This position offers an hourly rate between $28.60 and $33.36.

Are there education requirements for this job?

No, there are no specific formal education requirements for this position.

Is a background check required?

Yes, successful candidates must undergo a pre-employment fingerprint check and a comprehensive background investigation.

Can I receive credit for previous non-federal experience?

Yes, the Indian Health Service may offer newly appointed federal employees credit for directly related previous non-federal experience when determining annual leave accrual.