Culinary Instructor

Culinary Instructor

Position Summary

The Culinary Arts Instructor is responsible for providing classroom and hands-on kitchen instruction to Job Corps students in food preparation, safety, sanitation, and professional culinary skills, preparing them for entry-level employment or industry-recognized certification in the food service industry.

• Plan, prepare, and deliver lesson plans covering culinary theory and practical kitchen skills (knife skills, cooking methods, baking, menu planning, food costing, etc.)
• Instruct students in food safety and sanitation practices in accordance with Serv Safe or equivalent certification standards
• Supervise students during hands‑on kitchen labs, ensuring safe use of equipment and adherence to health codes
• Track and document student attendance, progress, and competency achievement using the Career Development Services System (CDSS) or similar tracking system
• Prepare students for industry-recognized credentials (e.g., Serv Safe, Pro Start, American Culinary Federation certifications)
• Maintain kitchen, equipment, and classroom in clean, safe, and operational condition
• Order and manage inventory of food, supplies, and equipment within budget
• Provide career readiness guidance, including resume building, interview preparation, and job placement support specific to the culinary field
• Enforce center conduct policies and maintain a safe, respectful learning environment
• Collaborate with career technical training (CTT) staff, counselors, and management to support student success
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development
• Maintain accurate records in compliance with Department of Labor and Job Corps Program Requirements Handbook (PRH) standards

• High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary degree/certificate or equivalent work experience preferred
• Minimum 2–3 years of professional culinary/food service experience (varies by contractor)
• Current Serv Safe Food Protection Manager Certification (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe)
• Teaching, training, or apprenticeship supervision experience preferred
• Valid driver's license may be required
• Ability to pass background check/drug screening (federal contract requirement)

• Strong communication and classroom management skills
• Ability to work with at‑risk youth and young adults (ages 16–24)
• Patience, cultural competency, and a student‑centered teaching approach
• Basic computer literacy for tracking/reporting systems
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 25–50 lbs, and work in a kitchen environment

• Full‑time position at a residential or non‑residential Job Corps center
• Combination of classroom and commercial kitchen settings
• May require early morning, evening, or occasional weekend hours depending on program schedule