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Cooking Instructor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

CocuSocial

Chef Instructor

Seattle, WA · On-site

Company Description About CocuSocial CocuSocial is a premier marketplace for cooking and tasting ... We're especially interested in instructors who specialize in Handmade Pasta, Sushi, Dumpling ...

CocuSocial

Chef Instructor

Seattle, WA · On-site

Company Description About CocuSocial CocuSocial is a premier marketplace for cooking and tasting ... We're especially interested in instructors who specialize in Handmade Pasta, Sushi, Dumpling ...

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All JobsCooking Instructor JobsCooking Instructor Jobs in Seattle, WA

Cooking Instructor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$87

$109

$128

How much do cooking instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking instructor in Seattle, WA is $109.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98.46 and $120.38 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.

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 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.

What qualifications do you need to teach a cooking instructor?

To become a cooking instructor, individuals typically need culinary training or a related certification, along with experience in cooking or food preparation. Strong communication skills and the ability to demonstrate techniques are also important, and some employers may require food safety certifications such as ServSafe.
More about Cooking Instructor jobs
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What job categories do people searching Cooking Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Cooking Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking Instructor job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $227,601 per year, or $109.4 per hour.

Meeker Middle School Cooking Instructor

City of Kent, WA

Kent, WA

$18.75 - $20.75/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Come work at a place where you have a direct impact on the quality of life for Kent residents, business owners and visitors alike!

MEEKER MIDDLE SCHOOL COOKING INSTRUCTOR

2 positions available (1 Lead and 1 Assistant)

Cover letter and resume must be attached with application.

Hours:5 hours per week

Tuesday and Thursday 2:45pm-5:15pm

Program runs September 22, 2026 - May 20, 2027

Salary:$18.75 - $20.75 per hour depending on position

Open: July 25, 2026

Closes: Open until filled

Duties: Under the direction of the Youth and Teen Manager and Program Coordinator, Cooking Instructors plan, organize and lead 2 weekly cooking classes for middle school age students. After school programs consist of approximately 6-14 participants and 2 staff members. Ideal candidates would be knowledgeable in meal/recipe planning and instructing teens on how to cook heathy meals. Must work well with teens in a fast-paced environment.

Minimum Qualifications: Lead must be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate. Applicants are subject to a Sterling Background check. Must have First Aid/CPR certification prior to program start date. Must be organized and consistently maintain a high standard of cleanliness and order in all workspaces and program areas.

Preferred Qualifications: 1 year or more of experience teaching youth and teens how to cook and have knowledge of recipes and meal planning for ages 11-14 years old; ability to live by Kent Parks mission of "Dedicated to Enriching Lives" and demonstrate the following characteristics: responsible, respectful, honest, energetic, passionate, flexible, original, creative, dependable, thoughtful.

Temporary employees with the City of Kent do not receive insurance or time off benefits outside of those which are legally mandated. In certain instances, temporary employees may be eligible for retirement benefits through the State of Washington's Department of Retirement Systems.

The City of Kent is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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