Summer Camp Cooking Instructor

About Us

Kidinary Cooking Academy is a fun mobile cooking school on a mission to change trends of the childhood obesity epidemic! We are a nut-free, allergy-friendly school that believes in partnering with parents to train up children in the way they should grow through hands-on practical daily life skills for a lifetime of wellness. We bring our classes to homeschool co-ops, schools, scouts, and organizations all over Illinois.

Position Summary

We're seeking an enthusiastic Culinary Instructor to join our summer camp team in Plainfield, IL. In this role, you'll inspire young campers to explore the culinary arts while teaching fundamental cooking skills in a fun, safe environment. Our program empowers students to build community friendships, cultivate culinary skills, explore with their creative minds, and learn foundational skills for lifelong wellness.

Location

• Plainfield, IL (near downtown Plainfield and Route 59)

Schedule Options- Summer Season (June 1 - August 15)

• Full-time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM with a one-hour lunch break (strongly preferred)
• Part Time: 8-1 pm or Noon - 5 pm
• 5 days per week, Monday-Friday
• Priority given to candidates available for the entire summer camp season
• Additional hours may be available for those interested in more opportunities

Key Responsibilities

• Host engaging cooking classes for children in grades K-5 (and potentially grades 6-8)
• Guide children in preparing delicious and nutritious meals using provided lesson plans
• Create a friendly, energetic, and positive atmosphere for young chefs
• Manage classrooms of 8-12 children effectively
• Sometimes work solo, sometimes collaborate with and supervise assistant instructors
• Engage students with various cooking and baking skills related to the menu
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment
• Set up cooking stations before class and clean up afterward
• Communicate effectively with team members and camp leadership
• Reinforce healthy eating habits and food knowledge
• Ensure all allergy protocols are strictly followed
• Provide first aid/CPR treatment if needed (certification preferred)

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Kind, compassionate, and patient demeanor with children
• Passion for cooking and a healthy lifestyle (no professional cooking experience required)
• Comfortable teaching/working with children in grades K-5 (experience with grades 6-8 is a plus)
• Strong Classroom management skills
• Reliable transportation and excellent punctuality
• Current Food Handler Certificate (can be obtained before teaching)
• Must pass a criminal background check
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds
• First aid/CPR certification preferred

Skills & Attributes

• Self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment
• Upbeat personality with an infectious enthusiasm
• Experience working with children in a teaching or mentoring capacity
• Enthusiasm for cooking and food education
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow lesson plans
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Adaptability to meet the needs of diverse learners
• Confidence speaking in front of groups with a clear, amplified voice when needed
• Knowledge of special education techniques is a plus

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay
• Meaningful work contributing to children's health and well-being
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunity to make a difference in children's relationship with food
• Employee uniform provided
• Possibility for advancement for passionate, skilled individuals
• Small business atmosphere with room for growth

Why Join Us?

Be part of a meaningful mission to combat childhood obesity through fun, hands-on culinary education. Help shape the next generation's relationship with food while creating memorable summer experiences for campers!

Ideal Candidate

You are our ideal candidate if:

• You have a natural curiosity and passion for food and culinary education
• You're eager to engage with children and make cooking fun and accessible
• You communicate effectively with children of various ages
• You're comfortable with a range of basic cooking and baking techniques
• You enjoy the rewarding challenge of teaching practical life skills
• You believe in our mission of promoting healthy eating habits in children
• You are flexible, adaptable, and ready to jump in where needed

Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Application Question(s):

• What hours are your available? (Full Time (8-5 Mon-Fri., 8-1 Mon-Fri, 1-5 pm Mon-Fri, Flexible can do full or part-time)

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Teaching (any kind): 1 year (Preferred)
• Working with children: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $23