Cook - $28.83 to $33.63 per HOUR

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Vancouver Medical Center is a leading healthcare facility dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to our nation's veterans. As part of the VA healthcare system, the Nutrition and Food Service department at this Medical Center plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being of Veteran patients through the preparation and delivery of nutritious, high-quality meals tailored to meet a wide range of dietary needs. With a commitment to excellence and service, the VA Vancouver Medical Center stands as a pillar of support for veterans in the Vancouver, Washington area and beyond, offering medical, nutritional, and rehabilitative care. The Nutrition and Food Service team is responsible for the provision of meals that not only meet nutritional standards but also cater to various regular and modified diets suited to the medical requirements of Veteran patients. The role of the Cook at the VA Vancouver Medical Center is central to this mission. This position, classified as WG-6, involves the preparation of a diverse range of foods including meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, fruits, sauces, desserts, and gravies, all prepared with attention to quality, safety, and dietary guidelines. The Cook must execute a sequence of steps involving food preparation, sanitation, and work safety, requiring both knowledge and sound judgment to maintain high standards. The Cook position is a full-time, permanent role based in Vancouver, Washington, offering a competitive hourly wage ranging from $28.83 to $33.63. The scheduled work hours are Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. This role is not eligible for telework, does not require travel, and offers no relocation benefits. It is designed to directly contribute to the quality of life of Veteran patients by ensuring timely and nutritious meal service that supports their health and dietary needs. The responsibilities of this position are comprehensive and include independently preparing and coordinating entire meals for both regular and therapeutic diets including diabetic, low sodium, low protein, and gluten-free menus among others. The Cook also prepares specialized meals for palliative care patients, requiring a delicate balance of nutrition and presentation. The role involves the use of a wide variety of culinary techniques such as roasting, broiling, grilling, baking, boiling, steaming, and stewing. Additionally, the Cook operates and maintains food production equipment safely, performs quality assurance tasks including temperature monitoring, and adheres to strict hygiene and food safety regulations. Data security is a unique aspect of this role, where the Cook must interact with the Nutrition and Food Service Vista computer program, handling sensitive patient information in compliance with the Privacy Act of 1974 and related regulations to safeguard data confidentiality and integrity. The position demands physical stamina, including prolonged standing, walking, bending, lifting weights up to 40 pounds, manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination, and the ability to react quickly. This role offers not only an opportunity to join a respected federal institution known for its commitment to veterans but also a chance to engage in meaningful work that affects the daily lives and health outcomes of those who served. The VA provides a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, ensuring that those who serve the veterans are well-supported. Ideal candidates will be motivated by a passion for serving Veterans, skilled in culinary arts related to health care food service, and capable of maintaining high standards of food safety and patient care. The Cook at VA Vancouver Medical Center embodies dedication, skill, and a commitment to the health and satisfaction of Veteran patients.

• U.S. citizenship
• suitable for federal employment determined by background investigation
• selective service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959
• participation in seasonal influenza vaccination program
• completion of online onboarding process
• submission of all application requirements
• ability to serve a 1-year probationary period
• physical ability to stand, walk, bend, push, pull, and lift up to 40 lbs
• manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination
• commitment to food safety and hygiene policies
• compliance with privacy laws and regulations
• availability to work Sunday through Thursday 10:00am-6:30pm PST
• willingness to undergo background checks and security clearances