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Chef Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Chopping Block

Chef instructor

Chicago, IL

$24 - $26/hr

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 ...

Joliet Junior College

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 RANGE: $15.38 - $17.30 hourly Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with ...

JJC Enterprises

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 RANGE: $15.38 - $17.30 hourly Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with ...

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Chef Instructor information

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$16

$23

$29

How much do chef instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef instructor in Chicago, IL is $23.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chef instructor?

Chef Instructors are culinary professionals who teach and train students in cooking techniques, food safety, kitchen management, and recipe development. They work in culinary schools, community colleges, or private cooking classes, sharing their expertise and passion for food. Chef Instructors are responsible for developing lesson plans, demonstrating cooking methods, and evaluating student progress to ensure a high standard of culinary education.

What does a chef instructor do?

Chef instructors teach students about the culinary arts. In this role, you may demonstrate how to make various types of food, cover commercial cooking aspects such as safety and sanitation regulations, and help prepare students to handle the duties and responsibilities of being a professional chef. Most chef instructors fall into one of two categories. General teachers focus on basic cooking skills like tools and everyday ingredients, both of which can vary by region. Specialized instructors concentrate on certain types of cuisine, such as ethnic foods. Most chef instructors work at public culinary schools, but a few work exclusively for large food service companies to train chefs and ensure they meet company standards.

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

To thrive as a Chef Instructor, you need a strong culinary background, professional kitchen experience, and often a culinary arts degree or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety standards, and teaching technologies is essential. Excellent communication, leadership, and patience are standout soft skills for effectively mentoring students of diverse skill levels. These skills ensure high-quality instruction, safe kitchen operations, and the ability to inspire and develop future culinary professionals.

What are some common challenges chef instructors face when transitioning from industry kitchens to the classroom?

Chef Instructors often find the shift from a fast-paced restaurant environment to teaching requires adapting their communication and leadership styles. Instructors must break down complex culinary techniques into clear, teachable steps and exercise patience as students develop their skills. Additionally, balancing curriculum requirements with hands-on practice and providing individualized feedback to diverse learners can be challenging. Successful Chef Instructors leverage their industry experience while cultivating a supportive, educational atmosphere that fosters student growth.

What is the difference between Chef Instructor vs Culinary Teacher?

AspectChef InstructorCulinary Teacher
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degreesCooking certifications, culinary degrees
Work EnvironmentCooking schools, culinary institutes, vocational schoolsHigh schools, community colleges, culinary programs
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, culinary academiesEducational institutions, vocational schools
Primary FocusTeaching culinary skills, practical cookingTeaching culinary concepts, theory, and skills

Both Chef Instructors and Culinary Teachers typically hold similar credentials and work in educational settings related to culinary arts. The main difference lies in their focus: Chef Instructors often emphasize practical cooking skills and hands-on training, while Culinary Teachers may focus more on culinary theory and broader educational objectives. Both roles are essential in culinary education, preparing students for careers in the food industry.

More about Chef Instructor jobs

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:

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

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

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

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

Chef Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chef Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,529 per year, or $23.3 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