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Cooking Instructor Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Zaman International

Culinary Instructor

Inkster, MI · On-site

Culinary Arts Instructor The Culinary Instructor leads small, hands-on classes of 6-10 students who ... Develop and deliver structured lesson plans in Culinary Arts and Baking, including cooking ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Roseville, MI

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Pontiac, MI

$16 - $19.75/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Eastpointe, MI

$14.25 - $18/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Fraser, MI

$14.50 - $18/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Lake Orion, MI

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Grosse Pointe Park, MI

$15.25 - $19/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Woodhaven, MI

$14.25 - $18/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Sterling Heights, MI

$15 - $18.50/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Berkley, MI

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Southfield, MI

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Rockwood, MI

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Novi, MI

$15 - $18.75/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Oak Park, MI

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... Instructor duty. Enlist as a Culinary Specialist and complete accession training, with rating assignment and formal schooling sequenced based on service needs; compete for special duty programs ...

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All JobsCooking Instructor JobsCooking Instructor Jobs in Detroit, MI

Cooking Instructor information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$72

$89

$105

How much do cooking instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking instructor in Detroit, MI is $89.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80.96 and $98.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a culinary instructor?

To become a culinary instructor, you typically need professional cooking experience, a relevant culinary degree or certification, and strong teaching skills. Many employers also prefer candidates with experience in food safety and sanitation, and some may require a teaching credential or certification in adult education. Gaining practical experience in kitchens and developing communication skills are essential steps in this career path.

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.

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 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 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 is the highest paying job in cooking?

The highest paying jobs in cooking are often executive chef or culinary director roles, which can earn six-figure salaries in high-end restaurants, hotels, or culinary organizations. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced culinary certifications. Specialized roles such as private chefs for wealthy clients or culinary consultants can also command high compensation.

How to be a chef lecturer?

To become a chef lecturer, typically one needs a professional culinary background, such as a culinary degree or extensive industry experience, along with teaching skills. Certification in culinary arts and familiarity with curriculum development can also be beneficial. Gaining experience in both cooking and education helps prepare for a role in culinary instruction at educational institutions or training programs.

How much do culinary school professors make?

Culinary school professors typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education level, and the institution. Salaries can vary based on location, full-time or part-time status, and additional responsibilities such as curriculum development or administrative roles.

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.
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Cooking Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking Instructor job openings in Detroit, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $187,129 per year, or $90 per hour.
Culinary Instructor

Culinary Instructor

Zaman International

Inkster, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Culinary Arts Instructor

The Culinary Instructor leads small, hands-on classes of 6–10 students who are eager to build culinary skills and prepare for careers in the food service industry. Through classroom instruction, practical kitchen training, ServSafe preparation, and individualized mentorship, the instructor helps students develop the technical skills, confidence, and workplace readiness needed to succeed.

This role is ideal for a culinary professional who enjoys teaching and mentoring others and wants to use their industry experience to make a meaningful difference. In addition to leading culinary education, the instructor supports Zaman International’s Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, helping participants gain industry-recognized credentials, practical experience, and pathways to employment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develop and deliver structured lesson plans in Culinary Arts and Baking, including cooking techniques, pastry arts, bread production, food safety, knife skills, and plating.

  • Utilize adult learning principles and differentiated instruction strategies to support diverse learners.

  • Create and implement competency-based assessments and maintain accurate grading and attendance records.

  • Integrate job readiness and professional workplace skills into daily instruction, modeling Excellence.

  • Administer and proctor AHLEI and ServSafe certification exams in compliance with testing standards and maintain exam integrity.

  • Oversee Culinary Arts and Baking Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, tracking competencies and required hours.

  • Maintain regulatory compliance documentation with integrity and accuracy.

  • Provide mentorship and individualized support to students, fostering Empowerment and Compassion.

  • Maintain a safe, sanitary, and organized commercial kitchen and baking kitchen in compliance with food safety standards.

  • Manage inventory, equipment maintenance, and collaborate with leadership on continuous program improvement.

Required Qualifications

  • Demonstrated teaching or vocational instructional experience (required).

  • Current ServSafe Manager Certification (required).

  • Minimum 3–5 years of professional culinary and/or baking experience.

  • Experience developing curriculum, lesson plans, and student assessments.

  • Ability to administer and proctor AHLEI and ServSafe exams.

  • Experience overseeing or supporting Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeships.

  • Strong classroom management and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate’s degree or higher in Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts, Hospitality, Education, or related field.

  • Teaching certification or vocational credential.

  • Experience working with adult learners or workforce development programs.

Core Competencies

  • Instructional leadership and curriculum development

  • Apprenticeship compliance management

  • Student mentorship and engagement

  • Regulatory documentation accuracy

  • Commitment to Zaman International’s mission and core values

  • Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds

  • Ability to work in a fast paced agile environment

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods.

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced commercial kitchen environment.