Launch Your Federal Career as an Assistant Grocery Department Manager
Are you an experienced retail professional looking to transition into a rewarding federal career? The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is currently accepting applications for an Assistant Grocery Department Manager at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. This position is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment and wants to provide a meaningful service to military personnel and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant Grocery Department Manager, your days will be dynamic and impactful. Key responsibilities include:
- Operational Oversight: Managing merchandising programs, store space allocations, and product inventory levels.
- Team Leadership: Supervising grocery department staff, assigning daily tasks, and ensuring a balanced workflow.
- Maintenance and Safety: Inspecting store equipment and enforcing rigorous safety protocols to prevent workplace injuries.
- Customer Engagement: Acting as a point of contact for patrons and vendors, ensuring professional and diplomatic service.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-8 position, you must demonstrate the following:
- Specialized Experience: One year of experience at the GS-6 level or equivalent in retail food management.
- Education Substitution: Successful completion of 1.5 years of graduate-level study in a relevant field (e.g., Business Administration, Food Industry Management).
- Compliance: You must pass security clearance requirements and meet federal time-in-grade restrictions if currently employed within the government.
Skills Comparison
| Skill Area | Requirements for Success |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Managing diverse teams and balancing workloads. |
| Technical | Understanding food safety, shelf-stocking, and inventory systems. |
| Communication | Diplomatic interaction with vendors, patrons, and leadership. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $62,809 to $81,648 per year, reflecting the responsibilities and technical expertise required for the role.
Benefits
Employees of the Defense Commissary Agency enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Robust health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous annual leave (vacation) and separate sick leave accrual.
- Stability and career growth within the Department of Defense.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submitting a longer document will result in disqualification.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly state your employer, employment dates (Month/Year), and the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use the Right Format: Upload your resume as a PDF. Avoid Adobe Portfolios or password-protected files.
- Answer Honestly: The questionnaire is a critical part of your evaluation; ensure your resume supports all your claims.
Serving those who serve our nation is a noble and fulfilling endeavor. If you meet the requirements and are ready to bring your retail management expertise to a unique, international environment, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the chance to lead, grow, and make a tangible difference in the daily lives of the military community at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Why This Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job Matters
Elevate your retail management career by supporting our military heroes as an Assistant Grocery Department Manager at the Defense Commissary Agency.
Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job Overview
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is seeking a motivated Assistant Grocery Department Manager at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. In this vital role, you will oversee daily grocery operations, ensure shelf readiness, and supervise staff to maintain a premier shopping environment for service members and their families. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization that provides a critical benefit to the military community worldwide.
Requirements for Assistant Grocery Department Manager
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-6 level in retail food management.
- Ability to pass a background security check (Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk).
- Must be able to lift, push, pull, and handle products weighing up to 40 pounds unassisted.
- Willingness to work an irregular tour of duty, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Must meet time-in-grade and time after competitive appointment requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant Grocery Department Manager
- Proven experience in managing retail food stores, supermarkets, or specific grocery departments.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and implement operational policies and safety standards.
- Experience in inventory control, merchandising, and supervising diverse teams.
- Academic background in business administration, public administration, or agricultural economics.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Structured career advancement opportunities
- ✓Supportive, mission-focused work environment
- ✓Relocation incentives as authorized
💡 How to Apply Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant Grocery Department Manager Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Log in or create an account at the official federal hiring portal.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50 forms and transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your account for status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check that your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week for all part-time roles.
- Ensure your resume is saved as a clean PDF to preserve formatting.
- Avoid using photos or personal identifiers in your resume as they are strictly prohibited.
- Submit your materials well in advance to account for potential technical processing delays.
- Tailor your experience descriptions to mirror the specific competencies listed in the job announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Applications exceeding this limit will be excluded from consideration.
Are there physical requirements for this role?
Yes. Applicants must be able to lift up to 40 pounds unassisted and stand, bend, or kneel for prolonged periods.
Is this position eligible for relocation assistance?
Yes, PCS (Permanent Change of Station) is authorized for this position under certain conditions.
Job from Defense Commissary Agency
The Defense Commissary Agency operates a worldwide chain of commissaries that provide high-quality groceries and goods to military members, retirees, and their families. With over 13,000 employees, we are committed to enhancing the quality of life for our service members by providing substantial savings on essential items. We pride ourselves on being more than just a grocery store—we are a vital part of the military community.