What are the responsibilities and job description for the High School Culinary Instructor position at I WILL GRADUATE Youth Development Programs?
Culinary Instructor (High School) — Full-Time
Target Start Date: April 13, 2026
Program Days: Monday-Friday
Pay: $50.00/hour (DOE)
About I WILL GRADUATE
I WILL GRADUATE empowers NYC students to thrive academically and in life through hands-on, arts- and career-infused learning. Our culinary program builds real-world skills, confidence, and healthy habits—helping students Own Your Future.
Role Overview
We are seeking an energetic and engaging Culinary Instructor to lead standards-aligned cooking labs for middle and high school students. This role blends culinary arts, nutrition, and entrepreneurship—transforming a school kitchen (or mobile cooking cart) into a dynamic, student-centered learning environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver high-impact culinary instruction through demonstrations and hands-on learning experiences
- Design age-appropriate lesson plans with clear objectives, recipes, and quick assessments
- Integrate cross-curricular connections (math, science, culture, and food history)
- Model kitchen professionalism, including mise en place, knife skills, time management, plating, and cleanup routines
- Ensure safety and compliance by following DOE policies, maintaining ServSafe-level sanitation, and managing allergies/dietary needs
- Teach life skills such as budgeting, meal planning, food systems, and culinary entrepreneurship
- Track student progress through attendance, skill assessments, and constructive feedback
- Support student tastings, showcases, and culminating events
- Collaborate with school staff and the I WILL GRADUATE team to align programming with academic goals and community initiatives
Who You Are
- A dynamic and structured educator with strong classroom management skills
- Reliable, punctual, and highly organized
- An excellent communicator who builds positive relationships with students and staff
- Passionate about helping young people connect their interests to real-world opportunities through culinary arts
Minimum Qualifications
- Ability to pass DOE background check and fingerprinting
- College enrollment or degree in culinary arts, nutrition, hospitality, education, or a related field
- Experience working with K–12 youth (schools, after-school programs, camps, or community organizations)
Preferred Qualifications
- ServSafe Food Handler or Manager Certification (or willingness to obtain within 60 days)
- Professional kitchen or catering experience
- Familiarity with NYC school environments
- Bilingual or multilingual skills are a plus
Location
School-based sites in Brooklyn/NYC. Exact schedule and hours will be determined in partnership with school sites. Occasional evening events or showcases may be required.
Compensation & Classification
- $50/hour, commensurate with experience
- Contract position (no benefits)
- Additional stipends may be available for approved special events
How to Apply
Please email your résumé, a brief cover letter, and two sample lesson ideas (titles with 2–3 bullet points each) to nlaurencin@iwgprogram.com
Subject Line: Culinary Instructor – Your Name
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $50.00 per hour
Ability to Commute:
- Brooklyn, NY 11212 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Brooklyn, NY 11212: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $50