VCS - Assistant Canteen Chief - Los Angeles CA

Veterans Health Administration • Los Angeles, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Veterans Canteen Service is seeking an Assistant Canteen Chief for its Los Angeles, California, VA Medical Center Canteen. The role supports daily operations of the Patriot Café, Patriot Retail, and/or Patriot Brew in a fast-paced environment serving Veterans, their families, staff, and visitors. The Assistant Canteen Chief supervises and develops personnel, promotes excellent customer service, ensures food quality and safety, supports compliance with operational standards, and assists with financial and resource management. The position reports directly to the Canteen Chief.

The role requires at least 1–2 years of direct food service and/or retail management experience. ServSafe certification is required or must be obtained within 90 days of hire, and a current, valid REAL ID is required. An associate degree in Business, Hospitality, or Management is preferred but not required. Employment is subject to a one-year trial period, a background/security investigation, and applicable Selective Service registration requirements.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1–2 years of direct food service and/or retail management experience.
• A proven track record of building sales, increasing profits, and developing staff.
• Hands-on leadership style with a strong emphasis on customer service and hospitality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
• Experience with POS systems.
• ServSafe certification, or ability to obtain it within 90 days of hire.
• A current, valid REAL ID.
• Serve a one-year trial period, subject to evaluation and written certification for continued employment.
• Subject to a background/security investigation.
• Selective Service registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree in Business, Hospitality, or Management (preferred, not required).

Responsibilities

• Support daily operations of the Patriot Café, Patriot Retail, and/or Patriot Brew at the VA Medical Center.
• Supervise, train, and support assigned personnel to develop a motivated, high-performing team.
• Promote outstanding customer service and a welcoming environment for Veterans, staff, and visitors.
• Ensure food quality, sanitation, cleanliness, and product availability.
• Reinforce adherence to operational policies, procedures, and quality standards.
• Assist with inventory control, labor costs, and budget performance to optimize efficiency and profitability.
• Develop and implement local promotional programs to increase engagement and drive sales.
• Report to the Canteen Chief on operations, performance, and compliance.

Benefits

• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific benefits depend on position type and should be confirmed with the hiring agency.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed