Cooking Instructor, School Break Camps

JCC Greater Boston is looking for enthusiastic Cooking Instructors to design and lead engaging culinary activities for children in grades K–5 at our School Break Camps.

About the role

Specialists are role models who create safe, inclusive, and fun program areas where kids can explore, learn, and build confidence through hands-on cooking experiences. You’ll spend your day bringing the kitchen to life—teaching basic cooking skills, guiding campers through recipes, exploring food science experiments, or helping them create delicious dishes. Beyond your specialty, you’ll also be part of the camp team: helping with transitions, supporting special events, and ensuring every camper feels included, supported, and inspired.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and lead age-appropriate cooking activities
• Ensure the safety and well-being of campers during activities
• Create a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment that encourages skill-building and exploration
• Work in partnership with counselors and camp leadership to provide a cohesive, positive camper experience
• Maintain, organize, and request necessary supplies and equipment
• Adapt activities to meet the needs and abilities of diverse campers
• Support camp-wide special events and large-group programming as assigned
• Assist with overall camp operations as needed (drop-off/pick-up, transitions, lunch, supervision, etc.)
• Actively create a welcoming dynamic where each individual is valued and respected
• Actively participate as an essential team member supporting JCC Greater Boston’s mission and values
• Attend JCCGB meetings and trainings as assigned

Example Activities

• Smoothies
• Cookies
• Salsa
• Salads
• And more!

Schedule

Available camp dates:

• December Camp: December 24, 26, 29, 30, 31 and January 2
• February Camp: February 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
• Passover Camp: April 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
• Spring Break Camp: April 20, 21, 22, 23, 24

Candidates do not need to commit to all dates. Staff are scheduled by the day and shift.

• Full Day: 8:30am – 4:30pm (8 hours)
• Morning Shift: 7:30am – 3:30pm (8 hours)
• Afternoon Shift: 10am – 6pm (8 hours)

Requirements

• High school degree preferred
• College degree, concentration, certification, or equivalent experience in cooking, nutrition, or related field preferred
• 1+ season (summer camp, semester, or other) instructor experience planning and leading activities for children
• Customer service experience preferred
• Genuine enjoyment of working with children and helping them grow
• Passion and expertise in cooking
• Ability to plan and lead age-appropriate, engaging, and inclusive activities
• Excellent group management skills
• Strong communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills with campers and staff
• Safety awareness and ability to manage risks during activities
• Creativity, flexibility, and patience to adapt activities for diverse camper needs
• Positive, energetic attitude and commitment to fostering an inclusive, joyful camp environment
• Proactive problem-solving and willingness to ask for guidance when needed
• Self-starter who takes initiative
• Ability to work well with others and build collaborative relationships
• Ability to manage situations effectively and diplomatically
• Commitment to building strong relationships with campers, co-workers, and camp leadership

Physical Requirements

• Able to work in a busy, dynamic, and sometimes noisy environment involving multiple tasks and priorities
• Ability to work in various weather conditions for extended periods
• Able to lift and carry objects weighing 30-40 pounds (e.g., boxes of supplies, children’s backpacks)
• Able to sit and kneel; getting down at eye level with children regularly
• Ability to swim and supervise children in a pool (able to stand in pool)

Pay

Competitive starting pay rate of $20 per hour. The pay rate offered will ultimately be determined by relevant qualifications, experience, and JCC's internal equity.

Benefits

• Access to JCC Greater Boston's top-class fitness, recreation, and wellness facility in Newton during active seasonal employment
• Free or discounted enrollment for camp programs may be available for camp employees’ children based on availability
• Supportive, vibrant in-person work environment

About JCC Greater Boston

Since opening its doors in 1983, JCC Greater Boston has been committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive, diverse community by nurturing meaningful, lasting relationships. Through our network of early learning centers, day camps, regional teen and family programs, health and wellness offerings, and adult arts and ideas classes, JCC Greater Boston provides highly valued connections, learning, and experiences for the Jewish community and friends.

JCC Greater Boston staff enjoy working in an innovative, friendly, and welcoming environment where their talents and contributions are appreciated. In our recent employee survey, staff rated their direct management and organizational alignment experiences close to 90% positive.

JCC Greater Boston is deeply committed to valuing and celebrating the uniqueness of each individual. We welcome staff and participants from diverse backgrounds. While being proudly Jewish, we strive in every way to provide an open and welcoming setting for all, irrespective of personal practices, beliefs, or background. We are guided by JCC Greater Boston’s core values: Belonging, Joyfulness, Collaboration, and Transformation.