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