Food Counter Attendants in the Department of National Defence provide essential food service support at military establishments, cafeterias, and dining facilities across Canada. In this role, you will prepare and serve food items, operate food service equipment, and maintain cleanliness and food safety standards in our kitchens and serving areas. You'll be part of a team dedicated to providing nutritious meals and quality service to Canadian Armed Forces members and Department employees.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include assembling and serving meals, managing food inventory, operating cash registers or payment systems, and following established food safety and hygiene protocols. You may work in fast-paced environments during peak service hours, requiring efficiency and attention to detail. You'll also help maintain a clean and organized food service area, assist with food preparation tasks, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
This is a dynamic role suited to individuals who enjoy working with people, take pride in food service quality, and thrive in a team environment. You'll contribute directly to the well-being and morale of our military and civilian workforce by delivering reliable food service day after day.
Key Responsibilities
Perform food services duties within the commerce, retail services and insurance function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Required Skills
Client service, Business acumen, Negotiation, Process management, Communication, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Entry to this position typically requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent. While formal culinary training is not required, many successful candidates have completed food service, hospitality, or culinary programs through community colleges or technical schools.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training covering food safety certification (including Foodsafe or equivalent provincial certification), kitchen equipment operation, food preparation techniques, and DND-specific policies and procedures. Your employer will support your development in areas such as customer service excellence, inventory management, and food handling best practices.
Continuing professional development opportunities may include advanced food preparation certifications, supervisory training, or progression to specialized food service roles. The Department encourages employees to pursue relevant certifications and upgrades throughout their career.
Entry Plans
Employment as a Food Counter Attendant with the Department of National Defence typically occurs through public service recruitment competitions. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca) and are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Entry pathways include: (1) Direct competition for the Food Counter Attendant position at various military bases and DND facilities across Canada; (2) Student employment and summer programs, which provide pathways to permanent positions; (3) Internal competitions for current Government of Canada employees seeking to transfer to food services roles; and (4) Priority hiring lists from previous competitions.
The application process requires submission of a Government of Canada application (often through an online portal), meeting eligibility criteria, and may include written assessments or interviews. Security clearance requirements vary by location but are typically a condition of employment. We encourage you to regularly check jobs.gc.ca for current Food Counter Attendant opportunities with DND.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and casual employment opportunities are regularly available in Food Counter Attendant roles across DND facilities. Part-time positions offer flexibility for students, parents, or those seeking supplementary income, typically working less than the standard 37.5 hours per week.
Casual positions provide additional flexibility, with work schedules based on operational needs and facility demand. These roles are ideal for individuals seeking irregular hours or seasonal work, particularly during peak periods such as summer operations or special events at military establishments.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as food service operations require on-site presence in kitchens and serving areas. However, the Department recognizes the importance of work-life balance and aims to provide predictable scheduling where possible. Interested candidates should inquire about part-time and casual opportunities when applying or speaking with recruitment staff at their local DND facility.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
