Become a Child & Youth Program Food Service Worker in Portsmouth

Are you looking for a role that combines your culinary interests with a mission-driven purpose? The Department of the Navy is currently hiring a Child & Youth Program (CYP) Food Service Worker at the Naval Support Activity Portsmouth. This position is vital to the morale and well-being of our military families, ensuring that the children of our service members receive high-quality, nutritious meals in a safe, structured, and caring environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a CYP Food Service Worker, your day-to-day duties will be diverse and hands-on. Your responsibilities are categorized into three main areas:

Food Preparation and Service: You will prepare ingredients, assemble meals, and ensure that food is delivered to classrooms and activity areas according to safety standards.
Kitchen Maintenance: Keeping the facility sanitary is paramount. You will operate dishwashing equipment, sanitize food preparation surfaces, and perform heavy-duty cleaning tasks to meet strict public health regulations.
Food Storage: You are responsible for the proper labeling, dating, and storage of all food items, ensuring compliance with USDA and local health policies.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Education: A High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required. You must provide a copy of this document during the application process.
Background: You will be subject to a comprehensive background check, including Installation Records Checks (IRC) to ensure suitability for working in a child care environment.
Communication: Strong English communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential.
Residency: You must meet specific U.S. residency requirements to be eligible for employment.

Comparison: Standard Kitchen Work vs. CYP Food Service

Feature	Standard Kitchen Work	CYP Food Service Worker
Environment	Commercial/Restaurant	Child Care Facility
Safety Focus	General Sanitation	Strict Child Health/Allergen Compliance
Audience	General Public	Children/Youth
Regulations	Health Dept. Standards	USDA/Military Health Standards

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $20.14 per hour. Salary placement is dependent upon the candidate's previous experience and qualifications.

Benefits

The Navy offers a robust benefits package that supports both your career and personal well-being, including:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance.
Retirement and 401(k) options.
Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
Access to fitness facilities and discounted recreational travel and tickets.
Subsidized childcare services.

Application Tips

Be Specific: When writing your resume, provide detailed examples of your experience in sanitation and food preparation.
Organize Documents: Have your HS diploma and any relevant certifications ready before you begin the online application.
Follow Procedures: The federal hiring process is precise. Ensure your resume stays within the two-page limit.

If you are a detail-oriented individual with a desire to serve the military community, this position is a fantastic opportunity. You will join a team dedicated to excellence and receive benefits that provide long-term stability. Apply today to start your career with the Navy in Portsmouth.

Why This Child & Youth Program Food Service Worker Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact in the lives of military families by providing essential support and high-quality nutrition for children at the Naval Support Activity Portsmouth.

Child & Youth Program Food Service Worker Job Overview

The Commander, Navy Installations Command is seeking a dedicated Child & Youth Program (CYP) Food Service Worker to join our team in Portsmouth, Virginia. In this role, you will perform vital food preparation, service, and kitchen maintenance tasks to ensure that children and youth receive nutritious meals in a safe, clean, and welcoming environment. This is an excellent opportunity to support our Sailors and their families while working within a collaborative, mission-driven team environment.

Requirements for Child & Youth Program Food Service Worker

U.S. Citizenship or meeting specific residency requirements.
High School Diploma or equivalent (must submit proof).
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
Must pass all required background checks, including Installation Records Checks (IRC).
Must be able to maintain a drug-free workplace.
Must possess or be able to obtain a REAL ID-compliant form of identification for base access.

Preferred Qualifications for Child & Youth Program Food Service Worker

Experience in quantity food preparation and recipe adjustment.
Knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and personal hygiene practices.
Proficiency in basic arithmetic for portioning and inventory control.
Demonstrated ability to follow standardized safety procedures and use industrial kitchen equipment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Medical, dental, and life insurance
✓Retirement plan and 401(k)
✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Paid holidays
✓Subsidized childcare for CYP employees
✓Free gym access
✓Military exchange privileges
✓Discounted tickets, travel, and recreational activities

💡 How to Apply Child & Youth Program Food Service Worker Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Child & Youth Program Food Service Worker Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review the full job announcement details and qualification criteria.
Prepare your federal resume (limited to two pages).
Gather required documents, including HS Diploma/GED or college transcripts.
Complete the online application and questionnaire via the official USAJOBS portal.
Submit your complete package by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically highlights how your past experience matches the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the job post.
Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume.
Ensure all transcripts clearly display your name, institution, degree, and date conferred.
Double-check that your contact information, especially your email address, is current to avoid missing status updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required for education?

You must submit a copy of your high school diploma, GED, or official college transcripts. If using a degree for qualification, ensure the document lists the degree type, date awarded, and major.

Is a background check required?

Yes. As this position involves child care, you must undergo an Installation Records Check (IRC), which includes checks against law enforcement and child safety databases.

What is the policy on drug testing?

The Navy is a drug-free workplace. The use of illegal drugs, including marijuana (which remains illegal under federal law), will result in disqualification or termination.

What is the most important document to include?

*A: Your High School Diploma or equivalent is mandatory for this role.*

Can I apply if I don't have a REAL ID?

*A: If you do not have a REAL ID, you must provide alternative acceptable forms of identification as specified by the Department of Homeland Security for military base access.*

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) oversees the Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) programs. These programs are designed to maximize the development and quality of life for sailors and their families. From Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) to specialized Child and Youth Programs, the agency provides a comprehensive support network that makes military life more manageable and enjoyable for those serving our country.