Launch Your Career: Assistant Grocery Department Manager at DeCA
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is currently accepting applications for an Assistant Grocery Department Manager at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. This position offers a unique blend of retail leadership and public service, directly supporting the mission of enhancing the quality of life for military members and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant Grocery Department Manager, your primary duty is to ensure the smooth, efficient operation of the grocery department. Key duties include:
- Merchandising: Overseeing store space allocation and inventory layout.
- Operations Management: Monitoring ordering, receiving, and stocking procedures.
- Staff Supervision: Balancing workloads and assigning duties to department employees.
- Facility Maintenance: Inspecting equipment and reporting maintenance needs.
- Safety Enforcement: Ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent workplace injuries.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-6 level or equivalent.
- Education: Graduate-level study in business or related fields may be used to qualify.
- Physical Standards: Must be able to handle merchandise weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Documentation: A concise, two-page resume is mandatory.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-6 level or higher |
| Education Substitute | 1.5 Years of Graduate Level Study |
| Combination | Possible to combine prorated experience and education |
Salary Overview
This position is classified under the General Schedule (GS) with a competitive annual salary ranging from $62,809 to $81,648.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides robust benefits, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous retirement programs including FERS.
- Substantial paid leave benefits.
- Career advancement opportunities through internal programs.
Application Tips
- Length Matters: Do not exceed two pages for your resume.
- Clarity: Explicitly state your hours worked per week for every position.
- Formatting: Use legible fonts like Lato or Calibri.
Serving those who serve our country is a rewarding career path. If you possess a background in retail operations and a commitment to service, apply for the Assistant Grocery Department Manager role at NAS Whidbey Island today.
Why This Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job Matters
Take the lead in retail excellence by supporting our military heroes at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job Overview
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is seeking a motivated Assistant Grocery Department Manager to oversee operations at the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island commissary. This role is essential to providing high-quality service to military families, ensuring efficient product flow, and maintaining top-tier retail standards. You will supervise department personnel, manage inventory, and guarantee that our stores remain fully stocked and well-merchandised to serve those who serve our country.
Requirements for Assistant Grocery Department Manager
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-6 grade level.
- Ability to perform the physical tasks required, including lifting up to 40 pounds unassisted.
- Must provide a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Possess specialized experience in retail food merchandising, procurement, or store operations.
- Ability to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant Grocery Department Manager
- Experience managing a commissary, supermarket, or large-scale retail food department.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and implement corporate retail policies.
- Strong interpersonal skills for interacting with vendors, patrons, and brokerage staff.
- Proven track record in managing inventory, shelf stocking, and store equipment maintenance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS/CSRS)
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for career development within the Commissary Career Program
- ✓Relocation/PCS assistance for eligible candidates
💡 How to Apply Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit and clearly outlines work duties, hours per week, and dates of employment.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and veterans' preference documents if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically disqualified.
- Clearly state your work schedule (e.g., 40 hours per week) for each position listed to avoid incomplete application status.
- Ensure your resume demonstrates the specific retail experience mentioned in the job description.
- Upload documents early to account for virus scanning times.
- Double-check your eligibility and ensure all supporting documents (like your DD214) are attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of experience qualifies for this role?
Qualifying experience includes managing or assisting in the operations of a retail food store, such as a grocery store or commissary, including supervising staff, managing inventory, and overseeing merchandising programs.
Is a college degree required?
Education can substitute for experience, but it must be graduate-level work in fields like business or agricultural economics related to food industry management. Otherwise, specialized professional experience is required.
Are there physical requirements for this job?
Yes. Candidates must be able to lift up to 40 pounds unassisted and occasionally more with help, as well as be comfortable standing, stooping, and climbing for extended periods.
Job from Defense Commissary Agency
DeCA is a global organization operating 235 commissaries worldwide. With over $4 billion in annual sales, the agency acts as a vital benefit for military personnel, providing groceries at cost-plus prices. The team is over 13,000 strong, representing the diverse makeup of the United States.