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Culinary Institute Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Culinary Director

Culver City, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Other qualifications may include post-secondary education at a culinary institute or a hospitality school. Essential skills for the job include leadership, budgeting and financial experience, and a ...

POSITION SUMMARY Culinary Institute of America faculty members are responsible for teaching students, developing curriculum, and remaining current with industry practice, with high standards of ...

POSITION SUMMARY Culinary Institute of America faculty members are responsible for teaching students, developing curriculum, conducting research, and organizing conferences and retreats to a high ...

Externship- Line Cook

Mauk, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

This externship is designed for Culinary Institute of America (CIA) students seeking hands-on experience in a high-end, scratch kitchen environment. Externs will rotate through various stations and ...

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How much do culinary institute jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for culinary institute in the United States is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Culinary Institute?

A Culinary Institute is a specialized educational institution that offers training and education in the culinary arts, including cooking, baking, and food preparation. These institutes provide a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience in professional kitchens, preparing students for careers as chefs, bakers, or other food service professionals. Programs often cover a range of topics such as nutrition, food safety, kitchen management, and international cuisines. Graduates typically receive diplomas, certificates, or degrees, which can help them advance in the culinary industry.

What is the difference between Culinary Institute vs Culinary School?

AspectCulinary InstituteCulinary School
CredentialsCertificates, Diplomas, or Degrees in Culinary ArtsCertificates, Diplomas, or Degrees in Culinary Arts
Work EnvironmentHands-on training, kitchens, labsClassroom-based learning, kitchens, labs
Industry UsageOften used interchangeably, recognized in culinary industry

Both Culinary Institutes and Culinary Schools provide culinary education with similar credentials and work environments. The term "Culinary Institute" often refers to more comprehensive or specialized programs, but generally, they serve the same purpose: preparing students for careers in culinary arts.

What types of hands-on experiences can students expect when enrolling at a culinary institute?

Students at a culinary institute can look forward to a blend of classroom instruction and extensive hands-on training in professional kitchens. Typical daily activities include food preparation, learning various cooking techniques, and participating in simulated restaurant services. Many programs also incorporate externships or internships at local restaurants or hotels, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities. Collaborative projects with classmates and guidance from experienced chef-instructors help students build teamwork and leadership skills essential for a career in the culinary industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Culinary Institute Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Culinary Institute Chef, you need advanced culinary techniques, a solid understanding of food safety, and a formal culinary education or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, menu planning software, and compliance with health regulations is essential. Creativity, leadership, and strong communication skills set outstanding chefs apart when managing teams and instructing students. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality food, maintaining safety standards, and fostering a productive learning and working environment.
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Infographic showing various Culinary Institute job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,420 per year, or $19 per hour.
Host-Reservationist: Part-Time Openings

Host-Reservationist: Part-Time Openings

Culinary Institute of America

Napa, CA

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

The hiring rate for this position is $20.00. 

Please apply to learn more about the benefits of working for the CIA.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Host/Reservationist is the initial guest contact person, and the final guest contact person, therefore must have the demonstrated ability to warmly and professionally greet all guests either via phone, email, or in person and to bid farewell to all guests with the goal of attaining the highest possible level of customer service.   

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Coordinate restaurant reservations and guest experiences in terms of greeting and seating, and bid farewell to all restaurant patrons.
  • Prepare menus and wine lists for each service shift.
  • Confirm guest reservations.
  • Develop long-term guest relations, by tracking information on repeat guests (i.e., favorite tables, special wines, requested servers, etc.).
  • Answer guest questions about the restaurant, based on a solid understanding of the Copia Restaurant food and beverage programs as well as the Culinary Institute’s objectives at this campus.
  • Any and all other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience:

  • Prior experience as a host or in a customer service role.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Previous experience with Open Table reservations system.
  • Previous experience managing front door/restaurant entrance.

REQUIRED SKILLS

  • Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills; ability to be adaptable, dependable and handle multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated ability to show a high level of service responsiveness to customers.
  • Must display a high level of energy and self-motivation.
  • Highly organized, attentive to detail, accurate and efficient.
  • Able to work well within a team.
  • Punctual and dependable.

 

 WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Ability to frequently lift and carry 30 lbs.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varied and extreme temperatures.
  • Must be available to work overtime, a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends as required due to business needs.

 

 

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