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Cooking Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Chopping Block

Chef instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

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 ...

CocuSocial

CHEF INSTRUCTOR

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Instructors to lead fun, hands-on cooking classes in Chicago. Our classes are hosted at unique ... Prior experience teaching cooking classes, culinary education, demonstrations, team training, or ...

CocuSocial

CHEF INSTRUCTOR

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $350/day

... Instructors to lead fun, hands-on cooking classes in Chicago. Our classes are hosted at unique ... Prior experience teaching cooking classes, culinary education, demonstrations, team training, or ...

CocuSocial

CHEF INSTRUCTOR

Chicago, IL

$200 - $350/day

... Instructors to lead fun, hands-on cooking classes in Chicago. Our classes are hosted at unique ... Prior experience teaching cooking classes, culinary education, demonstrations, team training, or ...

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All JobsCooking Instructor JobsCooking Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cooking Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$79

$99

$116

How much do cooking instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking instructor in Chicago, IL is $99.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89.23 and $109.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cooking instructor do?

As a cooking instructor, your job is to teach children or adults how to cook. During your classes, you may demonstrate cutting techniques, show how to measure different ingredients, explain how to read recipes, and otherwise teach people to cook food, whether basic or gourmet. The specifics of this job vary by position. If you work with children, most of your time focuses on small, simple recipes that teach the basics. Cooking instructors also host classes for adults who want to develop their skills, and a few teach high-level cooking skills at professional schools. You may need to write up lesson plans, conduct tests, and adjust your lessons to account for each student's strengths and weaknesses.

What does a cooking instructor do?

A Cooking Instructor teaches individuals or groups how to prepare and cook a variety of dishes, often focusing on specific cuisines, techniques, or dietary needs. They develop lesson plans, demonstrate cooking methods, and provide hands-on guidance to students. Cooking Instructors may work in culinary schools, community centers, or online platforms, and often adapt their teaching to suit beginner or advanced skill levels. Their goal is to help students gain practical cooking skills, confidence in the kitchen, and a deeper understanding of food and nutrition.

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

To thrive as a Cooking Instructor, you need advanced culinary skills, a solid understanding of food safety, and experience in professional kitchens, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, instructional technology, and food safety certification (such as ServSafe) is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and engage diverse learners are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective teaching, student safety, and an inspiring learning environment that fosters culinary growth.

How does a cooking instructor typically structure classes to accommodate different skill levels among students?

Cooking Instructors often design their classes to cater to a range of skill levels by offering step-by-step guidance and adapting recipes or techniques as needed. They may begin with foundational skills for beginners, while providing optional advanced tasks or tips for more experienced participants. Instructors also encourage group collaboration and foster a supportive environment so everyone can learn at their own pace. This approach helps ensure all students are engaged and leave the class with improved confidence and abilities.

What is the difference between Cooking Instructor vs Culinary Teacher?

AspectCooking InstructorCulinary Teacher
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary school degreesCooking certifications, culinary school degrees
Work EnvironmentCooking classes, workshops, community centersEducational institutions, culinary schools
Employer & IndustryPrivate classes, culinary schools, community programsSchools, colleges, culinary institutes
Search & Comparison IntentLearning cooking skills, hobby classesFormal culinary education, career training

Both Cooking Instructors and Culinary Teachers require similar credentials and often work in educational or community settings. The main difference lies in the context: Cooking Instructors typically teach hobbyists in informal settings, while Culinary Teachers work in formal educational institutions preparing students for culinary careers.

What qualifications do you need to teach a cooking instructor?

To become a cooking instructor, you typically need relevant culinary experience, such as a culinary degree or professional cooking background, along with strong teaching skills. Certifications in food safety or sanitation may also be required, depending on the setting. Good communication and the ability to demonstrate techniques are essential for effective instruction.
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Cooking Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, 59% Part Time, and 12% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $206,191 per year, or $99.1 per hour.

Chef instructor

The Chopping Block

Chicago, IL • On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 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