ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Nutrition Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Anytime Fitness

Group Fitness Instructor

Streamwood, IL · On-site

Group Fitness Instructor, evenings Anytime Fitness Streamwood Do you love the energy that group ... nutrition, sales, customer service, teamwork, and peer leadership. We love to promote from within ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsNutrition Instructor JobsNutrition Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Nutrition Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33K

$57.9K

$90.1K

How much do nutrition instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for nutrition instructor in Chicago, IL is $57,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $75,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a certified nutrition instructor?

To become a certified nutrition instructor, you typically need to complete a relevant educational program such as a bachelor's degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field, and obtain certification from a recognized organization like the Commission on Dietetic Registration or the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching. Certification requirements often include passing an exam and maintaining continuing education credits to stay current in the field.

What are some common challenges nutrition instructors face when engaging diverse groups of learners?

Nutrition Instructors often work with learners from varied backgrounds, each bringing different levels of nutrition knowledge and unique dietary habits. A common challenge is presenting complex nutritional information in an accessible and engaging way that resonates with all participants. Instructors need to balance scientific accuracy with practical advice and be sensitive to cultural food preferences and dietary restrictions. Successful instructors use interactive teaching methods and adapt their content to keep sessions relevant and inclusive.

What does a nutrition instructor do?

A Nutrition Instructor teaches individuals or groups about healthy eating habits, nutrition science, and how food choices impact health. They develop lesson plans, deliver lectures or workshops, and may work in schools, community centers, or healthcare settings. Nutrition Instructors also help students understand dietary guidelines, read nutrition labels, and create balanced meal plans. Their goal is to educate and empower people to make informed food choices for better health.

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

To thrive as a Nutrition Instructor, you need a solid background in nutrition science, dietetics, or a related field, typically supported by a relevant degree and teaching certification. Familiarity with educational platforms, nutrition analysis software, and current dietary guidelines is important for effective lesson planning and instruction. Strong communication, public speaking, and motivational skills help engage students and foster a positive learning environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately conveying complex information and empowering students to make informed dietary choices.

What is the difference between Nutrition Instructor vs Nutrition Coach?

AspectNutrition InstructorNutrition Coach
CertificationsCertified Nutrition Instructor, possibly with health or dietetics credentialsCertified Nutrition Coach, often with specialized coaching certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, community programs, fitness centersOne-on-one coaching, online platforms, wellness programs
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, community health organizations, fitness centersPrivate coaching, wellness companies, online health platforms

Nutrition Instructors typically focus on teaching nutrition principles in educational or community settings, often requiring formal certifications. Nutrition Coaches emphasize personalized guidance and behavior change, frequently working directly with clients in private or online environments. Both roles share similar credentials but differ mainly in their approach and work setting.

What are popular job titles related to Nutrition Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? For Nutrition Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nutrition Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Nutrition Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Nutrition Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nutrition Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,911 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Nutrition Educator/Chef Instructor, Chicago

Common Threads

Chicago, IL

$20 - $150/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Nutrition Educator/Chef Instructor (Chicago)

Common Threads is seeking a passionate and engaging Nutrition Educator to teach hands-on cooking classes and nutrition education to children, caregivers, and families. This role is ideal for a candidate with experience in nutrition education and/or culinary instruction.

Educators serve as the face of Common Threads in schools and community settings, delivering culturally responsive lessons that promote healthy cooking, nutrition literacy, and lifelong healthy habits. Classes are taught both in person and virtually.

This is a part-time, variable-hour position based in Chicago, Illinois, averaging 5–10 hours per week during classes. Some evenings and/or weekends may be required.

Key Responsibilities
  • Teach hands-on cooking and nutrition education classes to PreK–12th grade students, caregivers, families, and teachers.
  • Create a welcoming, inclusive learning environment.
  • Follow Common Threads approved curriculum, lesson plans, and food safety protocols.
  • Demonstrate basic cooking skills and nutrition concepts using fresh, quality ingredients.
  • Complete grocery shopping, lesson preparation, and recipe demonstrations as required.
  • Administer pre- and post-surveys and complete required documentation and paperwork.
  • Communicate professionally with school staff, partner organizations, and Common Threads team members.
  • Manage classrooms of up to 20 participants and support volunteers.
  • Teach classes both in person and online using virtual platforms.
Required Qualifications
  • Experience teaching nutrition education and/or cooking to children and/or adults.
  • Basic knowledge of nutrition and healthy eating.
  • Reliable, organized, and dependable; able to arrive on time and commit to scheduled programs.
  • Flexible, adaptable, and comfortable working in dynamic classroom and community settings.
  • Access to reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to teach virtual classes with appropriate technology (reliable internet, computer/tablet, camera, mic).
  • Current food service sanitation certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire).
  • Commitment to the mission and values of Common Threads.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Coursework, degree, or experience in nutrition, dietetics, public health, education, or a related field.
  • Culinary school training and/or food industry experience.
  • Experience as a chef instructor, nutrition educator, or cooking teacher.
  • Conversational fluency in English and Spanish; comfortable teaching in both languages.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Cooking Skills & World Cuisine and Family Cooking Classes: $150 per class (approx. 6 hours, including prep and clean-up)
  • Caregiver Workshops: $75 (approx. 2 hours, including prep and clean-up)
  • $20/hour for administrative duties (i.e., training, attending meetings)
  • Chef instructors are Common Threads employees eligible for paid sick time and access to the resources within the Employee Assistance Program.
Additional Information
  • Part-time, variable hours based on program needs.
  • Some evenings and/or weekends may be required.
  • Candidates must reside in or near Chicago, Illinois.
  • Background check required.
  • Position reports to the Senior Partnership Manager – Chicago, Illinois.

Apply