In order to qualify, you must meet the quality level of experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C.

Qualifications

Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Qualification Standard Handbook X-118C for the WG-7400, Food Preparations and Serving Family. Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most blue-collar positions, you must meet any screen-out element listed and show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.

The screen out element for this position is the ability to do the work of a Cook without more than normal supervision.

Job Elements

Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:

1. Knowledge of the methods and procedures relating to food preparation and cooking in small quantities.
2. Knowledge of characteristics of various foods, responsible for colors, flavors, consistencies, textures, temperatures, and cooking times. Knowledge of food handling and storage practices.
3. Knowledge of health, safety, and sanitation standards and procedures in order to maintain a safe and clean work environment.
4. Skill in arithmetic computations to determine precise measurements for quantities needed to prepare required amounts, multiplying ingredients, and calculating servings per container.
5. Skill in making precise measurements and accurately weighing recipe ingredients. Skill in operating, breaking down, and cleaning kitchen tools and equipment.
6. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; and read and understand menus, recipes, worksheets, food labels, computerized food production sheets, and metric conversion tables.

Physical Effort

Employee frequently lifts and moves items weighing up to 40 pounds unassisted and occasionally lift or move objects weighing over 40 pounds with the assistance of lifting devices or other workers. Work requires continual standing and walking, and frequent stooping, bending, reaching, pushing, and pulling.

Working Conditions

Frequently works in areas which are well lighted but are often hot and noisy. Subject to possible cuts from knives and burns from steam, hot foods, stoves, and hot grease and water. Concrete and tile floors are tiring to walk on and freshly scrubbed floors present danger of slipping. Burns from ovens and hot pans are a hazard. Injuries may result from use of powered equipment. Exposed to steam, fumes, and odors from cooking and to extreme temperature changes when entering and exiting walk-in refrigerators and freezers.

Part-Time or Unpaid Experience

Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

Volunteer Work Experience

Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.