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Cooking Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

Cook

Cedar Mill, OR · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/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

Rock Creek, OR · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/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

Newberg, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $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

Orchards, WA · On-site

$14.75 - $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

Oregon City, OR · On-site

$15 - $20/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

Jennings Lodge, OR · On-site

$15 - $20/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

Dundee, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $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

Troutdale, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $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

Yamhill, OR · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/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

Gladstone, OR · On-site

$15 - $20/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

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$15 - $20.25/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

Gaston, OR · On-site

$15 - $20.25/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

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/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

Maywood Park, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $20/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

Brush Prairie, WA · On-site

$14.75 - $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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsCooking Instructor JobsCooking Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR

Cooking Instructor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$82

$102

$120

How much do cooking instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking instructor in Portland, OR is $102.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92.07 and $112.55 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.
More about Cooking Instructor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Cooking Instructor jobs in Portland, OR? For Cooking Instructor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Cooking Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking Instructor job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $212,785 per year, or $102.3 per hour.

Housekeeper/Relief Cook

Guide Dogs for the Blind

Boring, OR • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description
Let your housekeeping and culinary skills serve a meaningful mission.
With Guide Dogs for the Blind, you can use your cleaning and cooking skills to serve a fulfilling mission - helping to provide a welcoming and satisfying environment for clients who are visually impaired or blind and who are visiting our campus in Boring, Oregon to receive a guide dog. As Housekeeper/Relief Cook, you will provide support in both the housekeeping and kitchen departments. This is a day shift position, Thursday through Monday from 10am to 6:30pm.
What you'll do:
  • Maintain a clean and welcoming environment in all areas of the Residence facility
  • Follow through with clients' preferences and requests
  • Provide coverage for absences and assist with the preparation and service for special events
  • Prepare and serve meals for clients and staff
  • Follow all food safety and food handling procedures
  • Maintain good verbal and written communications with clients, public, volunteers, co-workers, teammates, instructors, and supervisors

What you'll love:
  • A wide variety of tasks
  • Working as part of a team that provides top-quality service
  • Making our clients feel welcome and well-cared for while visiting with us
  • The camaraderie of our incredible GDB team

The qualifications you'll need:
  • Housekeeping experience
  • Experience in food preparation and cooking for groups of 10 or more
  • Current ServSafe certification or ability to obtain within three months of hire
  • Demonstrated knowledge of food service standards
  • Demonstrated reliability and ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to effectively communicate with others
  • Frequent movement of items weighing up to 25 pounds. Infrequent movement of items weighing up to 40 pounds.
  • Ability to remain at a workstation for long periods of time.

Guide Dogs for the Blind
At Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), we believe that everyone deserves to move through the world safely and confidently - to live the life they want to live. As the largest guide dog school in North America, we have graduated more than 16,000 guide dog teams from across the U.S. and Canada since our founding in 1942. GDB not only improves mobility for our clients, we further inclusion. Join our team of more than 300 employees and share your passion for our mission.
At Guide Dogs for the Blind, we respect, value, and appreciate all differences. We welcome all qualified candidates irrespective of your race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Individuals with disabilities, especially those who are blind or visually impaired, are encouraged to apply. If you have a disability and need assistance and/or accommodation with applying for a job, please feel free to contact Human Resources.
Pay Range
$23.00-$25.00/hour

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