Launch Your Culinary Career with Child and Youth Services in Monterey

Are you a dedicated culinary professional looking for a role that combines your kitchen expertise with a meaningful mission? The United States Army Installation Management Command is currently seeking a motivated Cook to join the Child and Youth Services (CYS) team at the U.S. Army Garrison in Monterey, California. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide essential support to the children of military and civilian personnel while honing your skills in a professional, mission-focused environment.

Role Responsibilities

As a Cook, your day-to-day work will be fast-paced and rewarding. Your core responsibilities include:

Food Preparation: Executing a variety of culinary tasks including peeling, slicing, grilling, frying, and baking.
Menu Adherence: Following established recipes to prepare complicated dishes, including meats, stews, casseroles, and nutritious baked goods.
Regulatory Compliance: Assisting in the implementation of the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) protocols.
Operational Support: Collaborating with Food and Nutrition Specialists to manage inventory and submit purchase requests.
Team Leadership: Assisting in the on-the-job training of kitchen staff and serving as a consultant for health-focused youth programs.

Comparison of Key Features

Feature	Details
Location	Monterey, California
Salary Range	$24.81 - $28.94/hr
Job Type	Flexible (FLEX)
Security Risk	Low Risk
Key Eligibility	Priority for early applicants

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Experience: At least six months of specialized experience working in a professional kitchen, specifically with industrial-grade equipment.
Communication: Fluency in English (verbal and written) is required to ensure safety and operational standards are met.
Physicality: The ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds routinely.
Documentation: A two-page (or less) resume that clearly outlines relevant culinary experience.

Salary and Benefits

This position provides a competitive hourly rate between $24.81 and $28.94. While this is a flexible appointment, employees gain access to several unique perks:

Childcare Discounts: Significant discounts for your own children enrolled in CYS programs.
Professional Development: Access to on-the-job training and certification opportunities.
Retirement Planning: Participation eligibility in the NAF 401(k) plan.
Community Access: Usage of base amenities including libraries and fitness centers.

How to Apply

Applying is a streamlined process. Interested candidates should use the USAJOBS portal to submit their application. Remember to format your resume carefully; it must be under two pages and saved as a PDF to preserve your formatting. Ensure all questionnaire responses are honest and reflected within your resume content. For those who need assistance, the NAF Human Resources office can provide information on manual application alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a FLEX position? *A: A FLEX position is a flexible appointment that does not have a set minimum workweek, offering greater scheduling flexibility.

Q: Is there an advantage to applying early? *A: Yes. Candidates who apply on or before October 28th are prioritized for initial management review.

Q: Do I need a security clearance? *A: No, this is a non-sensitive, low-risk position.

Serving those who serve our nation is a noble pursuit. By becoming a Cook for the Child and Youth Services program in Monterey, you are investing in your career while supporting the families who make the Department of the Army successful. Take the next step today, prepare your application materials, and join a team that is not just an employer, but a supportive community.

Why This Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job Matters

Turn your passion for culinary arts into a meaningful career that supports military families at the Presidio of Monterey.

Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job Overview

Join the Child and Youth Services (CYS) team at the U.S. Army Garrison in Monterey, California, as a Cook. In this vital role, you will contribute to the healthy development of children by managing food service operations and preparing nutritious, high-quality meals. You will be part of a mission-driven community dedicated to the well-being of military personnel and their families.

Requirements for Cook (Cys) Na-06

At least 6 months of direct work experience in food service or culinary settings.
Proven proficiency in operating professional kitchen appliances and equipment.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
Physical ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. on a regular basis.
Must be able to provide a resume of two pages or less.

Preferred Qualifications for Cook (Cys) Na-06

Prior experience working within a USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) environment.
Strong organizational skills for menu planning and inventory management.
Experience in mentoring or training kitchen support staff.
Knowledge of health, safety, and risk management procedures in large-scale food service settings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Childcare discounts for CYS employees (100% for the first child, 25% for additional children).
✓Access to on-base amenities, including fitness centers and libraries.
✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
✓Eligible for 401(k) retirement plan participation.
✓Supportive and inclusive work community.

💡 How to Apply Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Cook (Cys) Na-06 Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less and saves as a PDF.
Upload required documentation, including your resume and any relevant supporting documents.
Complete the online application questionnaire through the USA Staffing portal.
Review your application package for accuracy before submission.
Submit your application before the closing date of November 16, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Submit early: Candidates who apply by October 28th receive priority consideration.
Keep it concise: Adhere to the two-page resume limit to remain eligible.
Detail your skills: Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your experience with professional kitchen equipment.
Double-check contact info: Ensure your email is accurate and your inbox is clear to receive system notifications.
Use references: Including professional references with contact information can expedite the hiring process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of schedule should I expect for this position?

This is a flexible position (FLEX) with no guaranteed minimum workweek, allowing for a balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.

Are benefits included with this role?

As a flexible employee, this position is generally not eligible for full benefits, though participants may be eligible for the 401(k) retirement plan.

How can I check the status of my application?

You can monitor your status by logging into your USAJOBS account and navigating to your application dashboard.

Job from United States Army Installation Management Command

The Department of the Army’s Child and Youth Services (CYS) program is a cornerstone of the military community. Our mission goes beyond simple childcare; we strive to foster the social, emotional, and academic development of children. By joining our culinary team, you are an essential part of the backbone that supports these children, ensuring they are well-nourished so they can focus on learning and growth. Working for the Army Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) means joining a community that values its employees and provides paths for career advancement.