Launch Your Career as a Food Service Worker with the Bureau of Indian Affairs
Are you looking for a role that allows you to contribute directly to the safety and health of your community? The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is hiring a Food Service Worker to support the vital operations of the District 5-Wind River Detention center in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. This position offers competitive hourly compensation and the opportunity to work within a stable, mission-focused federal environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Food Service Worker, your primary duty is to ensure the efficient and safe preparation and delivery of meals. Key tasks include:
- Meal Assembly: Setting trays, utensils, and beverages according to standard nutritional guidelines.
- Cooking Assistance: Helping staff cooks with food preparation and portioning.
- Sanitation: Maintaining immaculate kitchen standards, including operating dish machines, cleaning work surfaces, and sanitizing facilities.
- Equipment Care: Operating and maintaining freezers, refrigerators, and heavy-duty kitchen appliances.
- Inventory Management: Following first-in/first-out practices to ensure food safety and quality.
Requirements
This position requires an individual who is physically capable and detail-oriented. Applicants must demonstrate:
- Mastery of kitchen safety and hygiene practices.
- The ability to work independently under general supervision.
- Physical stamina for heavy lifting (up to 40 pounds) and standing for long periods.
- Proficiency in interpreting work instructions.
Comparison of Key Work Aspects
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Work Location | Fort Washakie, Wyoming |
| Pay Range | $18.43 - $21.50 Per Hour |
| Job Series | WG-7408 |
| Schedule | Full-Time (Varies) |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $18.43 and $21.50, depending on experience and qualifications. As a federal role, it provides a structured compensation package with potential for leave accrual based on prior qualifying service.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of the Interior benefit from a supportive workplace culture. Specifically, the agency allows for the recognition of related non-Federal or retired uniformed service experience when calculating annual leave accrual, which can lead to more vacation time for experienced candidates.
Application Tips
- Be Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use this space to highlight relevant experience and your ability to follow safety instructions.
- Documentation Matters: If you are a veteran or qualify for Indian Preference, ensure you have your DD-214 or BIA-4432 ready to upload.
- Follow Procedures: The system is strict. Ensure all mandatory questionnaires are completed in full to avoid disqualification.
Serving as a Food Service Worker at the Wind River Detention center is a unique chance to support the BIA mission. If you possess the physical endurance and professional dedication required, we encourage you to apply today through the official USAJOBS portal.
Why This Food Service Worker Job Matters
Join the Bureau of Indian Affairs and play a vital role in supporting the Wind River Detention center by ensuring quality food service for those in our care.
Food Service Worker Job Overview
The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is seeking a dedicated Food Service Worker to join the team at the District 5-Wind River Detention center in Fort Washakie, Wyoming. This position involves essential food preparation, kitchen maintenance, and sanitation duties in a dynamic detention environment. You will play a key part in the daily operations of the facility, contributing to the health and safety of the population by maintaining high standards of food service and cleanliness.
Requirements for Food Service Worker
- Ability to perform job duties without more than normal supervision (screen-out element).
- Ability to interpret instructions, specifications, and related work documentation.
- Skill in the safe use and maintenance of kitchen tools and food service equipment.
- Physical capability to perform heavy lifting (up to 40 pounds), standing for prolonged periods, and working on ladders.
- Demonstrated knowledge of proper sanitation and safety practices in a food service setting.
- Must be able to successfully undergo suitability/fitness adjudication and drug testing.
- Must submit a complete application package by the closing date, including a resume limited to two pages.
- If claiming Indian Preference, must submit BIA Form 4432.
Preferred Qualifications for Food Service Worker
- Prior experience in large-scale food preparation or institutional kitchen settings.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage inventory using first-in/first-out practices.
- Proven reliability in maintaining clean and safe work environments under pressure.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Creditable service for annual leave accrual for eligible prior non-Federal or retired uniformed service experience.
- ✓Opportunity to work for a mission-driven agency serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
- ✓Potential for long-term career growth within the Department of the Interior.
💡 How to Apply Food Service Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Food Service Worker Job
- Ensure you have a registered USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a concise resume (maximum 2 pages) detailing work history, duties, and professional references.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked within the announcement.
- Attach all required documentation, including Indian Preference forms or Veteran's preference documents if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package via the official portal by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; only the first two pages will be reviewed.
- Be specific and clear about your experience; the agency will not make assumptions about your skills.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account.
- Ensure your documentation is uploaded well in advance to account for virus scan processing times.
- Double-check that all required fields and forms (like BIA-4432) are included before hitting submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work environment like?
The work is performed in a detention center kitchen. It involves exposure to high temperatures, humidity, noise, and potential hazards like hot surfaces, sharp blades, and heavy equipment.
Is Indian Preference applicable?
Yes, preference in filling vacancies is given to qualified Indian candidates in accordance with the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, all applications must be submitted through the official online portal. Materials sent via email will not be accepted.
Will there be a drug test?
Yes, this position requires a drug test as part of the hiring process.
Job from Interior, Bureau Of Indian Affairs
The Bureau of Indian Affairs is committed to enhancing the quality of life and promoting economic opportunity for American Indians and Alaska Natives. The BIA serves 575 federally recognized tribes, managing programs ranging from social services and natural resource management to detention and law enforcement. By joining the Wind River Detention team, you become part of an organization dedicated to the well-being of the communities it serves.