
Instructional Specialist - CTE Culinary (Effective 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR)
Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Hourly
Range $19.31 - $22.42
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Professional development opportunities
Job Description
Tucson Unified School District (TUSD) is a reputable public school district that serves the diverse educational needs of students in Tucson, Arizona. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and inclusive learning environments, TUSD offers a wide range of educational programs and services aimed at fostering student growth and success. TUSD embraces diversity and upholds a policy of nondiscrimination based on disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or national origin, reflecting its dedication to equity and respect for all individuals.
TUSD is currently seeking a qualified Culinary Instructor for the 2026-2027 school year to join its team at Santa Rita High School located in the Pantano and Escalante area. This is a full-time, white-collar position with an FTE of 1.0, requiring 8 hours of work per day on a 9-month work calendar. The role plays a vital part in preparing students for careers in the culinary field by delivering instruction aligned with the TUSD curriculum and industry standards. While the salary will be prorated if the start date occurs after the beginning of the work calendar, internal candidates transferring will do so at a rate consistent with their bargaining unit agreements.
The Culinary Instructor will be responsible for teaching students culinary arts including various cooking techniques, food safety standards, and professional kitchen practices. This role involves providing hands-on training and classroom instruction that aligns with curriculum requirements and the needs of the students. Candidates for this position must have a strong background in culinary arts with at least two years of experience in the trade and possess relevant educational credentials such as an associate's degree or equivalent academic achievements. Effective verbal and written communication skills in English are also required to ensure the instructor can convey concepts clearly and support student learning effectively.
Safety compliance is a top priority, with necessary requirements including FBI fingerprint background checks and proof of immunization for measles and rubella to uphold the health standards within the school environment. The position also encourages multilingual skills, with bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish considered a preferred qualification, supporting communications in this diverse community. Experience as a teacher aide or prior educational support roles will add value to the applicant's profile.
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' career readiness in the culinary arts. While positions under 30 hours per week are not eligible for district benefits, this full-time position includes competitive benefits aligned with the district's offerings. Tucson Unified School District strives to create a workplace culture that values inclusivity, professional growth, and community engagement, providing a supportive environment for educators and staff alike.
TUSD is currently seeking a qualified Culinary Instructor for the 2026-2027 school year to join its team at Santa Rita High School located in the Pantano and Escalante area. This is a full-time, white-collar position with an FTE of 1.0, requiring 8 hours of work per day on a 9-month work calendar. The role plays a vital part in preparing students for careers in the culinary field by delivering instruction aligned with the TUSD curriculum and industry standards. While the salary will be prorated if the start date occurs after the beginning of the work calendar, internal candidates transferring will do so at a rate consistent with their bargaining unit agreements.
The Culinary Instructor will be responsible for teaching students culinary arts including various cooking techniques, food safety standards, and professional kitchen practices. This role involves providing hands-on training and classroom instruction that aligns with curriculum requirements and the needs of the students. Candidates for this position must have a strong background in culinary arts with at least two years of experience in the trade and possess relevant educational credentials such as an associate's degree or equivalent academic achievements. Effective verbal and written communication skills in English are also required to ensure the instructor can convey concepts clearly and support student learning effectively.
Safety compliance is a top priority, with necessary requirements including FBI fingerprint background checks and proof of immunization for measles and rubella to uphold the health standards within the school environment. The position also encourages multilingual skills, with bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish considered a preferred qualification, supporting communications in this diverse community. Experience as a teacher aide or prior educational support roles will add value to the applicant's profile.
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' career readiness in the culinary arts. While positions under 30 hours per week are not eligible for district benefits, this full-time position includes competitive benefits aligned with the district's offerings. Tucson Unified School District strives to create a workplace culture that values inclusivity, professional growth, and community engagement, providing a supportive environment for educators and staff alike.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or G.E.D.
- Two years of work experience in culinary field
- Associate’s degree or equivalent academic achievement required
- Submission of diploma, transcripts or test results at time of hire
- Must pass FBI fingerprint background check
- Proof of immunity or MMR immunization
- Ability to communicate verbally and in writing in English
- Requirement to obtain ECE certification within two years if assigned to certain sites
Job Qualifications
- High school diploma or G.E.D.
- Two years of experience in culinary trade
- Associate’s degree or higher OR completion of an approved Academic Assessment Test OR 60 semester-hour credits
- Effective verbal and written communication skills in English
- Ability to read and comprehend written, graphic, and oral instructions
- Experience as a teacher aide preferred
- Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred
Job Duties
- Instruct students in culinary arts related to TUSD curriculum
- Develop lesson plans and instructional materials
- Maintain classroom and kitchen safety standards
- Evaluate and assess student progress and performance
- Communicate effectively with students, parents, and staff
- Prepare students for industry certification and career readiness
- Collaborate with colleagues to enhance the culinary program
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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