Explore how your federal experience as a Food Services (GS-1667) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Food Service Worker, Cafeteria Attendant, Food Prep Assistant | Assist with food preparation, serving meals, cleaning kitchen and dining areas, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. | $25,000 - $35,000 |
| 5-7 | Food Service Supervisor, Kitchen Manager, Catering Coordinator | Oversee food service operations, manage staff, plan menus, maintain inventory, and ensure customer satisfaction through quality food service. | $35,000 - $50,000 |
| 8-9 | Food Services Manager, Culinary Program Manager, Restaurant Operations Manager | Manage all aspects of food service operations, including budgeting, staffing, menu development, and compliance with health regulations, while ensuring high-quality dining experiences. | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| 10-11 | Director of Food Services, Culinary Services Director, Regional Food Operations Manager | Direct and oversee multiple food service operations, develop strategic plans, coordinate staff training programs, and maintain operational budgets while ensuring standard facility operations across locations. | $70,000 - $90,000 |
| 12-13 | Vice President of Culinary Operations, Senior Food Services Executive, Food and Nutrition Services Director | Formulate policies and strategies for food services, lead large teams, and ensure the alignment of operational procedures with organizational goals while managing financial performance across divisions. | $90,000 - $120,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Operations Officer, Food Services Division, Executive Director of Food Services, Chief Culinary Officer | Provide strategic leadership for all food services divisions, manage resources across a large organization, represent the company in public engagements, and oversee comprehensive operational excellence initiatives. | $120,000 - $180,000 |
| SES | Senior Vice President of Culinary Services, Corporate Executive Chef, Chief Food Services Strategist | Drive the vision and executive management of food service operations on a national or international level, spearhead innovative culinary programs, and cultivate partnerships with industry stakeholders while maximizing profitability and sustainability strategies. | $180,000 - $250,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
ServSafe Manager Certification
The ServSafe Manager Certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates a strong understanding of food safety practices. This certification is particularly beneficial in the GS-1667 Food Services job series, as it directly applies to managing food quality and safety, which are critical in both federal and civilian food service roles.
Certified Food Service Manager (CFSM)
The CFSM credential shows a comprehensive knowledge of food service management principles, including budgeting, staffing, and regulatory compliance. This certification can enhance job prospects in the civilian sector by showcasing an ability to efficiently operate food service establishments, which is highly valued by potential employers.
Culinary Arts Degree
A Culinary Arts Degree provides in-depth training in cooking techniques, food preparation, and management skills. This educational credential adds significant value to a GS-1667 position by offering practical skills that are directly applicable to civilian culinary jobs, such as restaurant management or catering.
Nutrition and Dietetics Certification
Obtaining a certification in Nutrition and Dietetics highlights expertise in dietary planning and healthy food practices. This is especially important in civilian roles that involve food service operations, as there is a growing demand for nutrition-aware food services in schools, hospitals, and corporate settings.
Hospitality Management Certification
A Hospitality Management Certification equips individuals with essential skills in customer service, event planning, and operational management, which are crucial for success in the food service industry. This credential could set candidates apart in competitive civilian jobs, particularly in roles that require strong leadership and customer engagement skills.
Food and Beverage Management Certificate
This certification focuses on the various aspects of managing food and beverage operations effectively. It is beneficial for those transitioning to civilian roles, as it provides insight into industry best practices and helps enhance efficiency in managing restaurant or catering services.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-1667 Food Services role to a private sector job can be both an exciting and daunting endeavor. It's essential to approach this transition with an open mind and a proactive attitude. Below are key areas to focus on during your job search.