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Culinary Instructor Jobs in Hamden, CT (NOW HIRING)

Extensive previous culinary experience * Certification from culinary school preferred but not required * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and ...

New

Junior Sous Chef

Washington, CT

$49K - $67K/yr

Be the culinary backbone of our kitchen, working closely with the Executive Chef to deliver exceptional dining experiences. With your creative flair and leadership skills, you'll inspire our culinary ...

Extensive previous culinary experience * Certification from culinary school preferred but not required * ServeSafe or Food Handler's Certification * Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and ...

New

Junior Sous Chef

Washington, CT

$49K - $67K/yr

Be the culinary backbone of our kitchen, working closely with the Executive Chef to deliver exceptional dining experiences. With your creative flair and leadership skills, you'll inspire our culinary ...

Sous Chef

Fairfield, CT · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes * Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure * Excellent management and leadership skills

Junior Sous Chef

Washington, CT · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Be the culinary backbone of our kitchen, working closely with the Executive Chef to deliver exceptional dining experiences. With your creative flair and leadership skills, you'll inspire our culinary ...

Sous Chef

Fairfield, CT · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes * Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure * Excellent management and leadership skills

Sous Chef

Fairfield, CT · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes * Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure * Excellent management and leadership skills

Executive Sous Chef

Guilford, CT · On-site

$66K - $84K/yr

Exceptional cuisine is prepared by chefs who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are ...

Executive Sous Chef

Guilford, CT · On-site

$66K - $84K/yr

Exceptional cuisine is prepared by chefs who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are ...

CHEF Description Are you a chef that is ready to make a giant leap in your culinary career? Are you able handle high volume with high attention to detail? Can you work clean and organized? Do people ...

Sous Chef

Oxford, CT

$49K - $66K/yr

SOUS CHEF Description Are you a sous chef that is ready to make a giant leap in your culinary career? Are you able handle high volume with high attention to detail? Can you work clean and organized?

Chef

Oxford, CT · On-site

DESCRIPTION CHEF Description Are you a chef that is ready to make a giant leap in your culinary career? Are you able handle high volume with high attention to detail? Can you work clean and organized?

Sous Chef

Oxford, CT · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

DESCRIPTION SOUS CHEF Description Are you a sous chef that is ready to make a giant leap in your culinary career? Are you able handle high volume with high attention to detail? Can you work clean and ...

Executive Sous Chef - Newington

Newington, CT · On-site

$64K - $82K/yr

At times, collaborate with the Culinary Operations Manager to develop new recipes, dishes, and procedures. * Train kitchen personnel in best practices for cleanliness and sanitation. * Control food ...

Showing results 21-40

Culinary Instructor information

See Hamden, CT salary details

$21.4K

$58.4K

$100.4K

How much do culinary instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for culinary instructor in Hamden, CT is $58,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,700.00 and $62,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a culinary instructor do?

A Culinary Instructor teaches students about cooking techniques, food safety, kitchen equipment, and various cuisines. They develop lesson plans, demonstrate recipes, and oversee hands-on practice to help students build practical culinary skills. Culinary Instructors may work in culinary schools, community colleges, or private cooking classes, and they often assess students' progress through exams or practical evaluations. Their goal is to prepare students for careers in the culinary industry or to improve their cooking abilities for personal use.

What is the difference between Culinary Instructor vs Pastry Chef?

AspectCulinary InstructorPastry Chef
CredentialsCooking certifications, culinary degreesPastry arts certifications, culinary degrees
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, culinary schoolsRestaurants, bakeries, hotels
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, culinary schoolsFood service industry, hospitality
Primary FocusTeaching cooking techniques and recipesCreating and preparing baked goods and desserts

While both Culinary Instructors and Pastry Chefs have culinary expertise and certifications, Culinary Instructors focus on teaching cooking skills in educational settings, whereas Pastry Chefs specialize in baking and pastry creation in commercial kitchens. Their work environments and primary responsibilities differ, but both roles require strong culinary knowledge and passion for food.

What are some common challenges culinary instructors face when teaching diverse groups of students?

Culinary Instructors often teach students with varying skill levels, cultural backgrounds, and learning styles, which can make it challenging to ensure everyone keeps pace and feels included. Balancing hands-on instruction with classroom theory, maintaining kitchen safety, and managing time effectively during practical sessions are frequent hurdles. Additionally, adapting teaching methods to engage both beginners and advanced students requires flexibility and creativity. Successful instructors foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment while maintaining high standards and encouraging teamwork.

What is a culinary instructor?

As a culinary instructor, also called a chef instructor, you often teach in culinary arts programs where students train to work in professional kitchens. Your job duties as a culinary educator include preparing lesson plans and demonstrating cooking techniques. You supervise students as they practice their new skills and provide feedback on their execution. As a culinary instructor, you may teach general skills courses or specialized classes like butchery, sauces, or classes on regional cuisines. As students advance, you help cultivate professionalism in your students and help them prepare to work in the industry.

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

To thrive as a Culinary Instructor, you need advanced culinary expertise, teaching experience, and often a degree or certification from a culinary school. Familiarity with industry-standard kitchen equipment, food safety regulations, and learning management systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to inspire and mentor students are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality instruction, safe kitchen practices, and effective student engagement, which are crucial for student success and program reputation.
What are popular job titles related to Culinary Instructor jobs in Hamden, CT? For Culinary Instructor jobs in Hamden, CT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Hamden, CT are hiring for Culinary Instructor jobs? Cities near Hamden, CT with the most Culinary Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Culinary Instructor job openings in Hamden, CT as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,435 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Sous Chef Hamden Hall Country Day School

Compass Group

Hamden, CT

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

340th of 485 rated business services


Job description

Salary: $60000 - $65000 / year

Other Forms of Compensation: N/A 

Flik Independent School Dining has been leading the way in transforming private and independent school foodservice across 300 communities for over four decades. Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice experiences every single time. Our meals are crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, supporting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit our communities. But we don't stop at just foodservice - we take it to the next level by offering cutting-edge nutrition education programs that empower students to make smart, healthy choices daily. By combining nutritious meals with comprehensive education, we equip students with the essential tools they need to lead a healthy and thriving life.  We believe in nourishing the whole person, creating community through great food and programming, and doing what's right, every time.

We are Nourishing a Brighter Future.

Job Summary

As a Sous Chef, you will play a key leadership role in supporting the culinary operations of a dynamic school dining program at Hamden Hall Country Day School, a private, coeducational day school serving approximately 675 students in grades PreSchool-12. Reporting to the Executive Chef, you will assist with daily food production, menu development, catering execution, inventory management, and the supervision of hourly kitchen associates. This is an exciting opportunity for an upbeat and motivated culinary professional with a passion for scratch cooking, creativity, and perfection in food quality and presentation.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist the Executive Chef in daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, production, and supervision of back-of-house staff.
  • Support cost control initiatives by assisting with inventory management, ordering, and minimizing food waste.
  • Help plan, develop, and implement menus that align with company culinary standards, student preferences, and nutritional guidelines.
  • Lead or support the preparation and execution of catered events, ensuring high-quality food, presentation, and service.
  • Implement and support new culinary programs and initiatives in collaboration with the Executive Chef and corporate culinary team.
  • Ensure all food safety and sanitation guidelines are rigorously followed, including compliance with HACCP and allergy protocols.
  • Maintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, and organization in all kitchen areas.
  • Participate in training and mentoring hourly culinary staff to support skill development and team culture.
  • Champion a safe, inclusive, and collaborative kitchen environment that reflects the values of the school community and company.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience.
  • 2+ years of dynamic culinary or kitchen management experience in high-volume foodservice operations; K-12, institutional, or contract dining preferred.
  • Strong catering experience and ability to lead special events.
  • Knowledge of scratch cooking, batch production, and food cost controls.
  • Confirmed understanding of food trends, seasonal ingredients, and sustainable practices.
  • ServSafe Certification highly preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Outlook, and internet-based tools.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills with a strong sense of ownership and collaboration.
  • Dedication to customer happiness and a passion for crafting delicious, nutritious meals for students and school communities.

Apply to Flik today!

Flik Independent School Dining is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Associates at Flik Independent School Dining are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_FISD.pdf

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

Flik Independent School Dinning maintains a drug-free workplace.

Req ID: 1549898

FISD 

STEPHANIE FREER 

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