Explore Careers
Food Service Specialists
Explore Careers
Food Service Specialists
Hospitality & TourismService Branches with this Role
What do Food Service Specialists do in the Military?
Where do Food Service Specialists work?
Food service specialists normally work in clean, sanitary kitchens and dining facilities. They may sometimes work in refrigerated meat lockers. Sometimes they work outdoors in tents while preparing and serving food under field conditions.
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.
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.
$63,928
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.
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.
$20,988 - $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 Specialists gain in the Military?
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. Job training for food service specialists consists of classroom and on-the-job instruction, including practice in food preparation. Training content may include:
- Standard and dietetic menu planning
- Food preparation and cooking
- Basic nutrition
- Storage of meats, poultry, and other perishable items
- Dining service operations
- Food and supply ordering
Military Training for Officers
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree. All officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
What skills help Food Service Specialists succeed?
- Interest in cooking
- Interest in working with the hands