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