Culinary Arts Instructor

Culinary Arts Instructor

Location: Teen Center of Excellence
Schedule: Part-Time 
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Department: Program Management
Reports To: Manager, Career and Workforce Readiness

Position Overview

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Culinary Arts Instructor to lead hands-on culinary programming for youth. This role blends teaching, mentorship, and kitchen management to create a safe, engaging environment where young people build culinary skills and confidence.

The ideal candidate is a skilled culinary professional who enjoys working with youth and can manage a teaching kitchen while delivering high-quality instruction.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Instruction

• Deliver engaging, hands-on culinary lessons (knife skills, food prep, recipe execution) 
• Lead cooking demonstrations and interactive learning experiences 
• Develop and adapt curriculum to meet diverse learning needs 
• Organize instructional materials and recipes 

Kitchen Management

• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully operational teaching kitchen 
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards (ServSafe) 
• Manage inventory, food ordering, and cost control 
• Oversee kitchen equipment and coordinate maintenance as needed 

Youth Engagement

• Build positive relationships and mentor youth participants 
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment 
• Encourage participation and personal development 
• Support field trips, events, and enrichment activities 

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all health, safety, and licensing requirements 
• Respond appropriately to incidents and complete required documentation 
• Maintain compliance with organizational and regulatory standards 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; culinary degree or equivalent experience required 
• Minimum 3–5 years of culinary, teaching, or training experience 
• Experience working in commercial or teaching kitchens 
• Current ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain) 
• Strong organizational, communication, and classroom management skills 
• Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office and data systems) 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds 
• Comfortable working in varying kitchen temperatures 
• Ability to stand and move for extended periods