Culinary Arts Instructor Or Baking and Pastry Instructor

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:
The Chef Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality culinary education to students through hands-on instruction, demonstrations, and classroom teaching. This role combines practical kitchen expertise with teaching skills to prepare students for careers in the culinary industry. The Chef Instructor fosters a positive learning environment, emphasizes food safety and sanitation, and mentors students in developing both technical and professional skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging culinary lessons in both kitchen and classroom settings 
• Demonstrate cooking techniques, recipes, and presentation skills 
• Supervise students during practical kitchen sessions, ensuring safety and proper procedures 
• Evaluate student performance through practical exams, written assessments, and ongoing feedback 
• Develop and update curriculum in alignment with industry standards and trends 
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety of kitchen facilities in compliance with health regulations 
• Manage inventory, food ordering, and cost control for instructional purposes 
• Mentor and advise students on career development and industry expectations 
• Stay current with culinary trends, techniques, and innovations 
• Participate in school events, recruitment activities, and faculty meetings 

Qualifications:

• Formal culinary training from an accredited institution or equivalent professional experience 
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in a professional kitchen (e.g., restaurant, hotel, or catering) 
• Prior teaching or training experience preferred 
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment 
• Relevant certifications (e.g., ServSafe, Certified Executive Chef) are a plus 

Skills & Competencies:

• Advanced culinary techniques and plating skills 
• Instructional and mentoring abilities 
• Classroom and kitchen management 
• Organization and time management 
• Adaptability and creativity 
• Leadership and teamwork 

Work Environment:

• Combination of classroom and commercial kitchen settings 
• Requires standing for extended periods and ability to lift moderate weights 
• May include early mornings, evenings, or weekend classes depending on program schedule 

Compensation & Benefits:
(Customize based on your organization)

• Salary: [Insert range] 
• Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, professional development opportunities, etc. 

If you want, I can tailor this for a specific school (community college vs. private academy), cuisine focus, or experience level.