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Cooking Class Instructor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VA

$80/hr

Instructors will teach provided lesson plans related to basics of Engineering and Tech, Chemistry ... Purchase groceries for each class based on the recipes provided (we reimburse separately for the ...

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Cooking Class Instructor information

See Virginia salary details

$13

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$31

How much do cooking class instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking class instructor in Virginia is $20.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by cooking class instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Cooking Class Instructors often navigate challenges such as managing students with varying skill levels, ensuring food safety in a classroom setting, and maintaining an engaging learning environment. Adapting lesson plans to suit different abilities and pacing, as well as fostering an inclusive, supportive atmosphere, can help overcome these obstacles. Instructors should stay up to date with food safety best practices and continually seek feedback to refine their teaching methods. Building strong communication skills and being prepared for unexpected changes—like ingredient shortages or equipment issues—also contributes to a successful and enjoyable class experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooking class instructor?

To thrive as a Cooking Class Instructor, you need advanced culinary skills, teaching experience, and often a culinary degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety regulations, and lesson planning software is beneficial. Excellent communication, patience, and adaptability are essential soft skills for engaging and instructing diverse groups of learners. These abilities ensure students have a positive, safe, and educational experience while meeting class objectives.

What is a cooking class instructor?

A Cooking Class Instructor is a professional who teaches individuals or groups how to prepare and cook various dishes. They design lesson plans, demonstrate cooking techniques, and provide guidance on ingredients, utensils, and kitchen safety. Instructors may specialize in specific cuisines or dietary styles and often work in cooking schools, community centers, or private settings. Their goal is to educate and inspire students to develop culinary skills and confidence in the kitchen.

What are popular job titles related to Cooking Class Instructor jobs in Virginia? For Cooking Class Instructor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cooking Class Instructor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,717 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

After School Children's Cooking Instructor

Sticky Fingers Cooking NOVA LLC

Reston, VA • On-site

$60/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Are you ready to TURNIP the BEET on what Kids Eat®?

SFC NOVA LLC dba Sticky Fingers Cooking® is looking for enthusiastic part-time Chef Instructors to help us Cultivate COOLinary Curiosity in Kids®!
Please note: At this time, we are only hiring candidates who reside in Northern Virginia.

If you're passionate about cooking, have experience working with kids, and are looking for a fun, flexible, and meaningful part-time job, we want to meet you!

Why You'll Love This Job
  • Make an Impact: Teach kids cooking, nutrition, and lifelong healthy habits.
  • Flexible Schedule: Classes are typically held on weekdays between 2:30-6 PM. Weekend classes are available occasionally.
  • Supportive Team: We provide tools, training, recipes, and ongoing guidance.
  • Fun Atmosphere: Create a joyful, hands-on learning experience for kids ages 3-18.
  • Year-Round Opportunity: This is not a seasonal role - Sticky Fingers Cooking offers classes throughout the entire year, including Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer sessions.
What You'll Do
  • Lead Hands-On Cooking Classes: Guide kids as they chop, mix, measure, and explore global recipes.
  • Spark Curiosity: Introduce new ingredients, cultures, and cooking techniques.
  • Stay Organized: Prep for classes using our curriculum, shop for ingredients, and set up safe mini-kitchens.
  • Be the Magic: Encourage confidence, creativity, and independence in every young chef.
Who You Are
  • A Virginia resident, ideally near Reston, Sterling, Mclean

  • Experienced working with children - this is required for the role.

  • Available at least 2+ days per week, Monday-Friday, between 2:30-6 PM, plus one full open afternoon for substitute teaching when needed.

  • Punctual, reliable, and confident managing groups of 8-12 kids.
    Must arrive 15-20 minutes before class (varies by school).

  • Able to commit to 6-12 week sessions.

  • Have or willing to obtain a ServSafe Food Handler Certification.

  • Able to lift up to 30 lbs and transport teaching materials.

  • Must have a reliable car, a valid drivers license and be able to drive to school locations.

  • Must pass state & FBI background checks.

  • An FCPS badge is a plus (not required).

What We Offer
  • Competitive Pay: $60 per class (each class includes approximately 90 minutes on campus) + food reimbursement
  • All tools & equipment provided
  • Ongoing training and support
  • A meaningful, joy-filled job that truly makes a difference
A Day in the Life

As a Sticky Fingers Cooking Instructor, you'll travel to schools around Northern Virginia to bring "the kitchen" to kids! Using our tried-and-true recipes, you'll teach essential cooking skills, food safety, and the cultural stories behind each dish - all while building creativity and confidence. Kids will have a blast... and so will you!

About Sticky Fingers Cooking®

Since 2011, Sticky Fingers Cooking® has brought the joy of cooking to thousands of children nationwide. We believe cooking should be fun, educational, and accessible, and our Chef Instructors make that possible every day.

Join Our Team + Get Kids Cooking!

If this sounds like your jam, apply today! We can't wait to meet you and welcome you to our team.

  • Meet some of our amazing Chefs here!

All Sticky Fingers Cooking® instructors must undergo a fingerprint background check with the state and FBI. Your employment is continent upon a clear background check.