Launch Your Career as a Supervisory Food Services Specialist in Memphis
Are you an experienced professional in the food service industry looking to transition into a high-impact leadership role? The Department of Justice is looking for a qualified individual to serve as a Supervisory Food Services Specialist (Food Service Administrator) at a Bureau of Prisons facility in Memphis, Tennessee. This role is more than just managing a kitchen; it is about overseeing vital operations that ensure the health, safety, and security of a federal institution.
About the Bureau of Prisons
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of individuals incarcerated in federal facilities. Beyond security, the agency is deeply committed to the rehabilitation and successful reentry of individuals into their communities. The Food Service Department plays a crucial role in this mission by providing nutrition that meets medical and religious standards, all while maintaining a safe and secure environment.
Job Responsibilities
As the Food Service Administrator, you will be the operational backbone of the facility's culinary program. Your daily duties will include:
- Operational Planning: Directing and evaluating food service functions, including satellite feeding programs.
- Budget Management: Developing budget estimates and overseeing departmental expenditures.
- Staff Supervision: Leading and developing staff, providing direction, and addressing performance concerns.
- Safety & Security: Enforcing strict sanitation, safety, and security protocols in accordance with federal standards.
- Supply Management: Requisitioning and inventorying food supplies, maintaining meticulous records for large-scale storage areas, including meat and vegetable coolers.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet several federal requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | At least 1 year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level |
| Training | Completion of the 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' in Georgia |
| Suitability | Must pass a background check and urinalysis |
| Age | Maximum entry age of 36 applies |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $89,508 to $116,362 per year, commensurate with qualifications and federal pay scales. In addition to the base pay, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, generous retirement options, and a comprehensive leave program.
Application Tips
Applying for federal positions requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume is formatted clearly with specific start and end dates in MM/YYYY format and include hours worked per week. Always attach the most recent version of your performance appraisal to give the selecting official a clear view of your achievements.
This position is ideal for a seasoned food service manager ready to take on the unique challenges and rewards of a correctional environment. By managing a critical department, you help support the core mission of the Bureau of Prisons. Apply today to start your path in federal service.
Why This Supervisory Food Services Specialist (Food Service Administrator) Job Matters
Take charge of institutional excellence as a Supervisory Food Services Specialist with the Bureau of Prisons in Memphis, where your leadership directly supports the safety, security, and rehabilitation of the correctional environment.
Supervisory Food Services Specialist (Food Service Administrator) Job Overview
The Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Food Service Administrator to manage operations at a correctional facility in Memphis, Tennessee. This vital role oversees the entire food service department, ensuring that nutritional standards, religious and medical diets, and strict safety and sanitation protocols are upheld within a secure environment. As a key member of the correctional team, you will balance administrative budget management with the hands-on supervision of food preparation and staff, contributing significantly to the agency's mission of public safety and successful inmate reentry.
Requirements for Supervisory Food Services Specialist (Food Service Administrator)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Ability to supervise food preparation staff, including performance evaluation and disciplinary action.
- Experience in managing large-scale food service equipment, including meat and vegetable coolers.
- Proven capability in developing and managing departmental budgets.
- Must be able to successfully complete the 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training in Glynco, Georgia.
- Subject to a background investigation, urinalysis, and credit checks.
- Must satisfy the maximum entry age requirement of 36 for original appointment (if applicable).
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Food Services Specialist (Food Service Administrator)
- Proven leadership in food safety compliance and sanitation standards.
- Experience managing diverse dietary requirements, including medical and religious menus.
- Strong proficiency in oral and written communication.
- Ability to delegate authority and provide effective program direction.
- Prior experience working in a correctional or high-volume institutional food service environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Food Services Specialist (Food Service Administrator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Food Services Specialist (Food Service Administrator) Job
- Register or log in to your account on the official federal employment portal.
- Prepare a resume that explicitly lists your experience with start/end dates (MM/YYYY) and hours worked per week.
- Complete the required online assessment questions.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as SF-50 forms, performance appraisals, and transcripts.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 9, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the online application system.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly highlights relevant supervisory experience.
- Use standard file names for your attachments (e.g., 'SF-50', 'Performance Appraisal') and avoid special characters.
- Be detailed in your response to the online assessment; your score depends entirely on how well your resume matches your answers.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and include your full name and necessary identifying info.
- Contact the provided HR support email early if you have questions about required documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree required for this position?
Education cannot be substituted for the required specialized experience for this role. You must demonstrate at least one year of relevant professional experience.
What is the primary responsibility of this role beyond food service?
Like all employees in a Bureau of Prisons institution, the primary responsibility is maintaining the safety and security of the facility.
Will I need to attend training?
Yes, successful candidates are required to attend and pass the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' course in Glynco, Georgia.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation expenses are generally not provided unless specified.
What is the primary focus of the interview?
Candidates will be assessed on their leadership capabilities, food management knowledge, and understanding of security protocols in an institutional setting.