Culinary Specialist

ABOUT Culinary Specialists (CSs) operate and manage Navy messes and living quarters to provide meals and accommodations for Navy personnel. They prepare menus, manage food inventories, maintain financial records, and ensure high-quality dining experiences. Often considered the "heart of the ship," CSs play a vital role in maintaining morale. CSs serve on every ship and shore installation and may provide catering for admirals, senior officials, and even the President of the United States. Responsibilities Culinary Specialists are responsible for : Preparing menus and ordering food items in appropriate quantities. Operating and managing kitchen and dining facilities. Maintaining subsistence inventories and financial records. Serving as personal food service specialists in commanding officer and admiral messes. Managing shipboard living quarters and shore-based hotel-type accommodations. Serving as flight attendant aircrewmen when required. What to Expect CSs work in kitchens, dining areas, living quarters, and food storerooms aboard ships and at shore bases. Work is physically and mentally demanding and requires teamwork, precision, and attention to detail. Work Environment Over a 20-year career, CSs typically spend 60 percent of their time assigned to fleet units and 40 percent at shore stations. Work locations include shipboard galleys, mess decks, and shore-based facilities, often in fast-paced and detail-oriented settings. Training & Advancement After Recruit Training, CSs attend a seven-week “A” School at Fort Lee, VA, where they learn food preparation, nutrition, and dining service. Qualified personnel have strong placement and advancement opportunities, with additional technical and operational training available throughout their careers. Education Opportunities College credits through the American Council on Education Degree programs and certificates through the United States Naval Community College (USNCC), including Naval Studies Certificates contributing toward an associate degree Voluntary education programs including Navy College Program, Tuition Assistance, and Post-9 / 11 GI Bill Qualifications Ability to work well in a team and enjoy working with people Strong arithmetic and verbal skills Creative ability and interest in nutrition and culinary arts Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately Commitment to military service with a commissioned Navy contract Benefits Health insurance Life insurance Retirement plan