Explore Careers

Food Service Managers

Explore Careers

Food Service Managers

Hospitality & Tourism
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • Navy logo

What do Food Service Managers do in the Military?

Food service managers purchase, plan, store, prepare, and serve meals.

Where do Food Service Managers work?

Food service managers usually work in food service facilities. They may manage facilities in field camps or aboard ships.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$92,047

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$25,716 - $279,964

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Food Service Managers gain in the Military?

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for food service managers primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Food service operations
  • Food safety and sanitation
  • Nutritional meal planning
  • Financial management
  • Management of facilities, equipment, and personnel

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.

What skills help Food Service Managers succeed?

  • Interest in nutrition and food preparation
  • Interest in planning and directing the work of others

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers
  • Food Service Managers
  • Butchers and Meat Cutters
  • Bartenders
  • Cooks, Private Household
  • Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
  • Chefs and Head Cooks
  • Dietetic Technicians

Interested? Take Your Next Step!