Serving Nourishment and Wellness at the Sacred Oaks Healing Center
Are you looking for a culinary position that offers more than just a paycheck? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a talented Cook to join the team at the Sacred Oaks Healing Center in Davis, California. This role is pivotal in ensuring that youth receiving treatment at the center receive high-quality, balanced, and nutritious meals that support their recovery and overall health.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cook, your primary duties involve the preparation and service of food in a residential setting. Your responsibilities include:
- Meal Preparation: Preparing entrees, desserts, breads, and sides according to established menus.
- Dietary Modifications: Creating and adjusting meals for special dietary needs and making recipe substitutions as necessary.
- Kitchen Maintenance: Ensuring the kitchen, dining areas, and equipment remain in pristine, sanitary condition.
- Inventory and Supplies: Assisting with physical inventory counts and managing food deliveries.
- Recipe Refinement: Testing new food products and modifying recipes to enhance taste and visual appeal.
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of the position effectively. Because this role involves working with children, a thorough federal background investigation is required.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Background Check | Must pass Federal suitability screening |
| Schedule | Requires weekends and holidays |
| Certification | Must pass E-Verify check |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $23.26 to $27.11. In addition to pay, employees benefit from a generous leave system. Federal employees accrue annual leave based on their tenure, and the IHS may even offer credit for previous non-federal experience or military service to determine your initial leave accrual rate.
Tips for a Successful Application
Competition for federal positions can be high. To stand out:
- Keep it Concise: The selection panel will only review the first two pages of your resume. Ensure your most relevant experience is front and center.
- Highlight Competencies: Clearly document your technical ability to handle kitchen equipment and food preparation tasks.
- Submit Documentation Early: Don't wait until the October 29, 2026, deadline. Ensure all forms, including DD214 or BIA-4432 (for Indian Preference), are uploaded correctly.
If you have a passion for food service and a desire to serve your community, this position at the Sacred Oaks Healing Center is an ideal opportunity. By utilizing your skills to provide healthy meals, you become an essential part of the healing process for youth in need. Prepare your application materials today and take the next step in your federal career.
Why This Cook Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Sacred Oaks Healing Center and play a vital role in nourishing the health and wellness of Native American youth.
Cook Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a skilled and passionate Cook to support the culinary operations at the Sacred Oaks Healing Center in Davis, California. In this role, you will work within a Youth Regional Treatment Center to prepare nutritious, high-quality meals for residents. You will be responsible for following standardized recipes, modifying meals for special dietary needs, and maintaining high standards of kitchen sanitation and safety. This is a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the mission of providing holistic care to American Indian and Alaska Native populations.
Requirements for Cook
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must pass a comprehensive federal background investigation.
- Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must satisfy Public Law 101-630 requirements regarding contact with Indian children.
- Ability to work weekends and holiday shifts as required.
Preferred Qualifications for Cook
- Experience in institutional cooking, menu planning, and meal preparation.
- Proficiency in following standardized recipes and modifying them for dietary requirements.
- Strong knowledge of food safety, kitchen sanitation, and equipment maintenance.
- Ability to work independently or as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal leave accrual system based on years of service.
- ✓Potential for credit toward annual leave based on previous non-federal experience.
- ✓Contribution to meaningful public service within the Indian Health Service.
- ✓Supportive, mission-driven work environment.
💡 How to Apply Cook Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cook Job
- Prepare a resume that highlights your experience and hours worked per week.
- Create or sign in to your Login.gov account via the official USAJOBS portal.
- Upload your resume and any required supporting documentation (e.g., DD214, tribal verification).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked to the announcement.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of October 29, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the technical competencies listed in the job description.
- SMEs will only review the first two pages of your resume, so keep your most relevant experience prominent.
- Double-check that all required documents, such as Indian Preference forms or military records, are attached to avoid disqualification.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account to track progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to all applicants?
Yes, the position is open to various hiring paths including competitive service, veterans, and Native American preference candidates.
Are there education requirements for this job?
No, there are no specific education requirements for this position; it focuses on your professional experience and technical abilities.
What is the work environment like?
You will be working in a Youth Regional Treatment Center, focusing on providing essential support to staff and youth through high-quality food service.
How do I verify my Indian Preference?
You must submit a completed Form BIA-4432, which must be signed and dated by an authorized Tribal Representative or BIA Official.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service (IHS), an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services, is dedicated to raising the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Working with the IHS means joining a nationwide team of healthcare professionals who value cultural sensitivity, innovation, and compassion. At the Sacred Oaks Healing Center, your work directly contributes to the well-being of the youth we serve.