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Assistant Chef Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Chef Instructors are leaders in the kitchen by instructing our students with the guidance of ... Our Class Assistants have a unique opportunity to work with our highly trained chefs to educate our ...

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.38 - $17.30/hr

Chef Instructor holding lab class on that particular day PLACEMENT: Support staff, Grade 2 HIRING ... Assist students with menu production and supervise quality of product. 3. Monitor students to ...

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.38 - $17.30/hr

Chef Instructor holding lab class on that particular day PLACEMENT: Support staff, Grade 2 HIRING ... Assist students with menu production and supervise quality of product. 3. Monitor students to ...

Assistant Chef Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$24

$49

How much do assistant chef instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant chef instructor in Chicago, IL is $25.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $29.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant chef instructor?

Assistant Chef Instructors are culinary professionals who support lead instructors in teaching cooking classes or culinary courses. They help prepare ingredients, demonstrate techniques, supervise students, and ensure that classes run smoothly. Typically, they work in culinary schools, cooking academies, or community education settings. Assistant Chef Instructors also provide feedback to students and may assist in developing lesson plans and maintaining kitchen safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant chef instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Chef Instructor, you need a solid culinary background, practical kitchen experience, and often a culinary degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety regulations, and instructional tools like learning management systems is typically expected. Strong communication, patience, and leadership skills help effectively mentor students and foster a positive learning environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring high-quality instruction, maintaining safety standards, and preparing students for professional success in culinary arts.

What are some common challenges assistant chef instructors face when working with culinary students?

Assistant Chef Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse skill levels within a single class and adapting their teaching style to suit different learning preferences. Additionally, balancing hands-on demonstrations with theoretical instruction while ensuring kitchen safety can be demanding. Collaborating closely with lead instructors and providing individualized feedback to students are also key aspects that require strong communication and organizational skills. These challenges make the role dynamic and rewarding for those passionate about education and culinary arts.

What is the difference between Assistant Chef Instructor vs Culinary Instructor?

AspectAssistant Chef InstructorCulinary Instructor
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degreesCooking certifications, culinary degrees
Work EnvironmentCooking schools, culinary collegesCooking schools, culinary colleges
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, culinary programsEducational institutions, culinary programs
Primary RoleAssist in teaching cooking techniques, support lead instructorTeach culinary skills, develop curriculum

While both roles involve culinary education, an Assistant Chef Instructor primarily supports the lead instructor in teaching cooking techniques, whereas a Culinary Instructor often leads classes and develops curriculum. The assistant role is more supportive, focusing on assisting and practical demonstrations, while the culinary instructor has a broader teaching and curriculum development responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Assistant Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Chef Instructor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Chef Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Chef Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,990 per year, or $25 per hour.

Chef instructor

The Chopping Block

Chicago, IL

$24 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

If you have a passion for food, cooking and inspiring the same in others, Chicago’s premiere recreational school is now hiring Chef Instructors and Class Assistants.

Chef Instructors are leaders in the kitchen by instructing our students with the guidance of recipes, always focusing on techniques and the “whys” behind cooking. Chef Instructors also direct students into the right classes and advise on kitchen equipment they need to get cooking at home. You’ll even select the perfect wine to complement dinner! Our Class Assistants have a unique opportunity to work with our highly trained chefs to educate our students about the world of cooking and learn new culinary techniques themselves.

Please note we require all Chef Instructors to have at least four years of experience cooking in restaurants. Our Class Assistants do not require formal culinary education, yet an ability to demonstrate relevant hands-on industry (or equivalent) experience is essential to be considered for this role. High energy and enthusiasm are a must for either position!

This position requires evening and weekend work at The Chopping Block Lincoln Square.

If you think you have the experience to drive our mission to get people to cook, share it with us.


Employment Type: Full Time
Years Experience: 3 - 5 years
Salary: $24 - $26 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: No