Become a Meatcutting Worker with the Defense Commissary Agency in Dahlgren
Are you a skilled professional with an eye for detail and a passion for food service? The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is currently hiring a Meatcutting Worker in Dahlgren, Virginia. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide essential support to military service members and their families while working in a secure, professional, and rewarding federal environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Meatcutting Worker, your duties will be diverse and hands-on:
- Assisting journeyman meatcutters with processing beef, pork, veal, and lamb.
- Operating manual and automatic wrapping machines to package retail cuts.
- Accurately weighing and pricing products.
- Maintaining display case inventory.
- Ensuring strict cleanliness and safety protocols are followed in the work area.
- Sharpening and maintaining specialized power and hand tools.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must demonstrate a specific level of technical ability and commitment. You must be able to perform physical tasks, including lifting up to 50 pounds, and have the ability to work in varying temperatures. Your resume must clearly outline your professional history, including the number of hours worked per week and specific descriptions of your meatcutting experience.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | Meat traying, wrapping, and cutting |
| Equipment | Hand tools and powered cutters |
| Physicality | Lifting up to 50lbs, standing for long periods |
| Documentation | 2-page resume limit (PDF) |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly pay scale ranging from $24.50 to $28.58 per hour. Compensation is based on the specific grade level and the candidate's qualifications.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides access to stable employment, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of supporting the military community. Employees receive regular pay, professional development, and the benefits of being part of a large, mission-driven organization.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, follow these tips:
- Keep your resume concise—it must not exceed two pages.
- Use PDF format to preserve formatting.
- Clearly list your duties for every job held.
- Ensure your contact information is current and accurate.
If you are ready to apply your meatcutting skills in a professional, respected, and mission-critical role, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date. Help us serve those who serve our country.
Why This Meatcutting Worker Job Matters
Launch your career in the culinary and retail sector with the Defense Commissary Agency in Dahlgren, VA. We are looking for skilled individuals to join our team as Meatcutting Workers and help serve our military heroes.
Meatcutting Worker Job Overview
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is seeking a motivated Meatcutting Worker to join our team in Dahlgren, Virginia. In this role, you will play a critical part in our mission to support military families by processing high-quality beef, pork, lamb, and veal for our retail commissaries. This is a hands-on position requiring technical skill, attention to safety, and a commitment to maintaining the highest sanitation standards in a professional food service environment.
Requirements for Meatcutting Worker
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Ability to stand, stoop, kneel, and bend for prolonged periods.
- Capability to lift, push, pull, and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds independently.
- Submission of a resume limited to exactly two pages (PDF format).
- Must be able to pass a background check and maintain a drug-free work environment.
- Completion of the online assessment questionnaire.
Preferred Qualifications for Meatcutting Worker
- Demonstrated experience in a retail meat department, including traying, wrapping, and weighing products.
- Proficiency in cutting, trimming, and boning meat products.
- Practical experience using hand tools and powered meat-cutting equipment.
- Strong ability to interpret price lists and safety specifications.
- Ability to work effectively in a temperature-controlled, fast-paced environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Defense
- ✓Stable work environment
- ✓Contribution to military family quality of life
💡 How to Apply Meatcutting Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Meatcutting Worker Job
- Create or log into your account at the USAJOBS portal.
- Read the full announcement details carefully.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your relevant job duties, hours worked, and employment dates.
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages and saved as a PDF.
- Complete the online questionnaire honestly.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, such as your SF-50 or DD-214.
- Submit your application before the closing date of November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Stick to the two-page resume limit strictly; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Use 14-point font for titles and 10-point for the main text to ensure readability.
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Verify your eligibility documents well in advance of the deadline.
- Do not include personal photos or social media links in your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use education to qualify for this meatcutting role?
No, education cannot be used as a substitute for the required hands-on experience in this position.
What is the work environment like for a Meatcutting Worker?
The role involves working in a variety of environments, including refrigerated rooms, loading docks, and potentially outside. You may experience temperature fluctuations and damp conditions.
Is remote work available for this position?
No, this position requires on-site work in the commissary.
What if I have financial difficulties?
Financial issues do not automatically disqualify you from consideration for this role.
Job from Defense Commissary Agency
The Defense Commissary Agency operates a massive global network of over 200 stores. Our mission is to provide high-quality groceries and essential goods to military members and their families, ensuring that the benefit of their service is reflected in their quality of life. We pride ourselves on a diverse workforce that reflects the strength of our nation.