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Chef Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mccneb

Culinary Camp Assistant

Mundelein, IL

$13.50/hr

SUMMARY The Camp Assistant will support the Chef Instructor in culinary-based lessons to kids ages 8-16. Other duties include ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the room and equipment. Hours ...

Joliet Junior College

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.23 - $17.13/hr

Chef Instructor holding lab class on that particular day PLACEMENT: Support staff, Grade 2 HIRING RANGE: $15.23 - $17.13 hourly Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with ...

JJC Enterprises

Culinary Lab Assistant

Joliet, IL · On-site

$15.23 - $17.13/hr

Chef Instructor holding lab class on that particular day PLACEMENT: Support staff, Grade 2 HIRING RANGE: $15.23 - $17.13 hourly Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with ...

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All JobsChef Instructor JobsChef Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Chef Instructor information

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$16

$23

$29

How much do chef instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef instructor in Chicago, IL is $23.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are Chef Instructors?

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 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 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.

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:
What are popular job titles related to Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? For Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chef Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,567 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Nutrition Educator/Chef Instructor, Chicago

Nutrition Educator/Chef Instructor, Chicago

Common Threads

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Nutrition Educator/Chef Instructor (Chicago)
Common Threads is seeking a passionate and engaging Nutrition Educator to teach hands-on cooking classes and nutrition education to children, caregivers, and families. This role is ideal for a candidate with experience in nutrition education and/or culinary instruction.
Educators serve as the face of Common Threads in schools and community settings, delivering culturally responsive lessons that promote healthy cooking, nutrition literacy, and lifelong healthy habits. Classes are taught both in person and virtually.
This is a part-time, variable-hour position based in Chicago, Illinois, averaging 5-10 hours per week during classes. Some evenings and/or weekends may be required.
Key Responsibilities
  • Teach hands-on cooking and nutrition education classes to PreK-12th grade students, caregivers, families, and teachers.
  • Create a welcoming, inclusive learning environment.
  • Follow Common Threads approved curriculum, lesson plans, and food safety protocols.
  • Demonstrate basic cooking skills and nutrition concepts using fresh, quality ingredients.
  • Complete grocery shopping, lesson preparation, and recipe demonstrations as required.
  • Administer pre- and post-surveys and complete required documentation and paperwork.
  • Communicate professionally with school staff, partner organizations, and Common Threads team members.
  • Manage classrooms of up to 20 participants and support volunteers.
  • Teach classes both in person and online using virtual platforms.

Required Qualifications
  • Experience teaching nutrition education and/or cooking to children and/or adults.
  • Basic knowledge of nutrition and healthy eating.
  • Reliable, organized, and dependable; able to arrive on time and commit to scheduled programs.
  • Flexible, adaptable, and comfortable working in dynamic classroom and community settings.
  • Access to reliable transportation and a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to teach virtual classes with appropriate technology (reliable internet, computer/tablet, camera, mic).
  • Current food service sanitation certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire).
  • Commitment to the mission and values of Common Threads.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Coursework, degree, or experience in nutrition, dietetics, public health, education, or a related field.
  • Culinary school training and/or food industry experience.
  • Experience as a chef instructor, nutrition educator, or cooking teacher.
  • Conversational fluency in English and Spanish; comfortable teaching in both languages.

Compensation & Benefits
  • Cooking Skills & World Cuisine and Family Cooking Classes: $150 per class (approx. 6 hours, including prep and clean-up)
  • Caregiver Workshops: $75 (approx. 2 hours, including prep and clean-up)
  • $20/hour for administrative duties (i.e., training, attending meetings)
  • Chef instructors are Common Threads employees eligible for paid sick time and access to the resources within the Employee Assistance Program.

Additional Information
  • Part-time, variable hours based on program needs.
  • Some evenings and/or weekends may be required.
  • Candidates must reside in or near Chicago, Illinois.
  • Background check required.
  • Position reports to the Senior Partnership Manager - Chicago, Illinois.

Apply