Culinary Instructor (Full - Time Faculty)

Oakland Community College is a well-established public community college dedicated to providing high-quality education and career training to a diverse student body. As one of the premier institutions in the region, it offers a wide range of academic programs including associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education opportunities designed to meet the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students. The college is committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that supports student success, workforce development, and lifelong learning. Its strategic plan focuses on improving educational outcomes, expanding access to education, and enhancing community partnerships to benefit both students and the local economy.

The role of Culinary Instructor at Oakland Community College is a full-time position aimed at professionals passionate about culinary arts and education. This position involves engaging students in both theoretical and practical learning experiences that prepare them for successful careers in the culinary and hospitality industries. The instructor will be responsible for teaching a variety of courses such as culinary fundamentals, savory cooking, baking techniques, production methods, restaurant operations, catering, food purchasing and storage, cost control, butchery and fabrication, garde manger, and contemporary buffet presentation. The role emphasizes curriculum development for college-level lecture and lab components, allowing the instructor to bring innovation and current industry standards into the classroom.

With a starting base salary range of $62,440 to $70,857 and a full salary range extending up to $112,678 based on the 2025-26 salary schedule, there is also potential for additional compensation through overload teaching, supplemental contracts, or leadership roles such as Program Coordinator or Department Chair. The anticipated start date for this position is August 2026, offering new hires ample time to prepare and transition into this rewarding role.

This faculty position requires flexibility in scheduling including availability for evening classes. In addition to teaching responsibilities, the Culinary Instructor will collaborate with peers, engage with diverse student groups, participate in course assessments, and contribute to college committees. Professional development is encouraged to ensure that teaching practices and culinary knowledge remain current. The college values teamwork in a multicultural working environment and seeks candidates who display strong communication skills and the ability to work cooperatively with lab support staff and faculty. Proficiency with learning management systems such as D2L or Canvas is also necessary to enhance course delivery and assessment processes.

Certification is a crucial component of this role with the expectation that the instructor holds or will obtain CEC (Certified Executive Chef) or CEEP (Certified Executive Pastry Chef) certification within one year of hire. Preferred qualifications include experience teaching at the community college level and a demonstrated interest in curriculum development.