Job Description
SUMMARY We are currently hiring for the 2026–2027 school year. Training will begin in June, with regular program hours starting in August 2026. The Culinary Arts Instructor leads engaging, hands-on cooking and culinary enrichment classes for students in TK–Middle School using a developmentally differentiated curriculum and provided training. Instructors create a fun, safe, and supportive learning environment where students explore food preparation, kitchen skills, creativity, nutrition, teamwork, and culinary techniques through interactive cooking experiences. Students are encouraged to view cooking as both a life skill and a form of creative expression, using food to create edible art through presentation, design, color, and imagination. The instructor guides students through age-appropriate culinary activities that support confidence-building, independence, collaboration, and real-world skill development while encouraging creativity and positive participation in the kitchen. Key Responsibilities Teach and lead hands-on culinary enrichment classes using provided curriculum, recipes, lesson plans, and training Facilitate age-appropriate cooking activities for TK–Middle School students Teach foundational and advanced culinary skills including measuring, mixing, assembling, recipe execution, plating, and kitchen organization Encourage students to express creativity through food design, presentation, and artistic culinary projects Create a safe, engaging, and positive learning environment for all students Supervise students during food preparation and ensure proper kitchen safety and sanitation procedures are followed Prepare ingredients, materials, equipment, and classroom setups before each class Encourage creativity, teamwork, communication, and confidence through collaborative cooking experiences Adapt instruction to support varying grade levels, learning styles, and developmental needs Lead group tastings, presentations, and culinary showcases Maintain clean and organized kitchen and classroom spaces Communicate professionally with staff, school partners, and families Curriculum & Program Focus The Culinary Arts program uses a developmentally differentiated curriculum designed to progressively build culinary skills, creativity, independence, and kitchen confidence across grade levels. TK–2nd Grade Students explore food through guided sensory experiences, simple food preparation, creative cooking projects, and introductory kitchen skills. 3rd–5th Grade Students build foundational culinary skills through recipe execution, teamwork, measuring, food presentation, and collaborative cooking activities. Middle School Students develop advanced culinary techniques, kitchen leadership, creativity, time management, food presentation, and real-world culinary applications. Qualifications Passion for cooking, culinary arts, and working with children Strong classroom leadership and communication skills Ability to create an engaging and supportive learning environment Reliable, organized, professional, and creative Experience in cooking, culinary arts, food service, or culinary education preferred Experience working with children or youth programs preferred but not required Curriculum and training provided Skills Preferred Cooking and food preparation experience Knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation Creativity and adaptability Teamwork and leadership Organization and time management Ability to lead groups in hands-on activities Work Environment Elementary and middle schools After-school enrichment programs Community centers Culinary workshops and camps Educational enrichment programs Mission of the Role To inspire students through creative, hands-on culinary experiences that promote confidence, collaboration, life skills, and artistic expression while introducing students to culinary arts, nutrition, and food-related career pathways EDUCATION ■ High school diploma or equivalent required ■ Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred in: Culinary Arts Nutrition Hospitality Family & Consumer Sciences Related field REQUIRED ■ Must pass a background check ■ TB test clearance (renewed every 4 years) ■ CPR/First Aid Certification Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour Benefits 401(k) Dental insurance Flexible schedule