Culinary Arts Instructor

The Teen Center of Excellence is a dynamic community organization dedicated to empowering youth through innovative programs designed to enhance their skills, confidence, and career readiness. Located within a vibrant community setting, the center focuses on offering diverse educational and developmental opportunities for young people, helping to bridge the gap between education and workforce success. The organization prides itself on creating a supportive, inclusive space where youth feel valued and motivated to reach their full potential through various programs and activities tailored to meet their evolving needs.

We are currently seeking a passionate and experienced Culinary Arts Instructor to join our Program Management team on a part-time basis. This role is specifically designed for a culinary professional who thrives in both instructional and hands-on kitchen environments and is dedicated to mentoring and teaching youth. The Culinary Arts Instructor will play a pivotal role in delivering engaging culinary education that combines practical skills development with mentorship and personal growth for young participants.

As a Culinary Arts Instructor at the Teen Center of Excellence, you will be responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and well-managed teaching kitchen where youth can learn essential culinary techniques such as knife skills, food preparation, and recipe execution. You will lead interactive cooking demonstrations and adapt curriculum to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring every participant benefits from a hands-on learning experience.

This role requires managing kitchen operations including maintaining cleanliness, ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation standards following ServSafe guidelines, managing inventory, ordering supplies, controlling costs, and coordinating maintenance of kitchen equipment. Beyond kitchen duties, the instructor will cultivate positive relationships with youth, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages active participation and personal development.

The ideal candidate will have at least three to five years of combined culinary, teaching, or training experience and a background working in commercial or teaching kitchens. A culinary degree or equivalent experience is required, and preference will be given to candidates with a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, possessing or obtaining a current ServSafe Certification is essential. Strong organizational abilities, excellent communication skills, and the capability to manage a classroom effectively are crucial for success in this role. Basic computer proficiency with Microsoft Office and data systems is also necessary.

Physical requirements for the position include the ability to lift up to 40 pounds, tolerate varying kitchen temperatures, and stand and move for extended periods. The position is classified as non-exempt and reports to the Manager of Career and Workforce Readiness.

This part-time opportunity offers a chance to make a lasting impact on youth by teaching valuable culinary skills while contributing to their overall development and readiness for future career opportunities in the culinary arts and beyond. Join us at the Teen Center of Excellence and be part of a team committed to nurturing the next generation of culinary professionals and leaders.