Culinary Arts Program Instructor

About Us

Since 1972, Metropolitan Ministries has been providing life-changing solutions for those who are homeless and at risk of becoming homeless in Tampa Bay. We are a grassroots, donor, and volunteer-fueled community nonprofit serving families in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, and Hernando counties with compassion, practical help, and a commitment to making a significant difference.

About the Role

This position is responsible for the delivery of culinary instruction and career mentorship to the students of the Culinary Arts Program (CAP), as well as food production at the assigned shelter. The teaching kitchen is located inside Holy Cross Catholic Church (7851 54th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33709).

Responsibilities

• Instruct students through classroom training and hands-on kitchen demonstrations as outlined in the CAP curriculum manual.
• Demonstrate proper use of food service equipment, food preparation techniques, and related skills.
• Train students in the use of food service equipment and techniques.
• Communicate with Metropolitan Ministries kitchen leadership to schedule prep work for students and address any student issues that arise.
• Maintain cleanliness, safety, and proper food handling techniques in the kitchen and classrooms.
• Order and prepare required inventory for culinary lab and student dining operations while meeting or exceeding budgetary goals.
• Communicate daily with the Culinary Arts Program Manager on student recruitment, orientation, and updates on current students’ attendance and participation.
• Provide career mentorship to Culinary Arts Program students.
• Utilize best practices in designing new curriculum, program improvement, and innovation in teaching.
• Create relationships with Tampa restaurant chefs to develop externship opportunities and job placement for students.
• Maintain involvement in related professional organizations and continuing education activities, such as the American Culinary Federation.
• Act as a positive ambassador for Metropolitan Ministries and the Culinary Arts Program in the larger community.
• Meet personal goals and actively contribute to the achievement of team and organizational goals as stated in the KPI and annual plan.
• Support the Metro kitchen team in other tasks as assigned.
• Support the Tampa Bay Food Fight fundraising event as directed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Management, Culinary Arts, Restaurant Management, or a related field preferred.
• Certified Food Safety Manager Certificate required.
• Minimum 3-5 years of work experience in the food service or culinary arts industry.
• One year of successful teaching experience in related subjects at the post-secondary level preferred.
• Must demonstrate a heart for the ministry of serving poor and homeless families.
• Maturity, sensitivity to issues of faith, cross-cultural and diversity issues, and strong social skills to handle job-related matters professionally and diplomatically.
• Ability to supervise interns or volunteers.
• Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries with clients, staff, and volunteers.
• Good computer and clerical skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office programs such as Word and Excel.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to tolerate outdoor temperatures consistent with Florida’s climate and endure prolonged standing, walking, bending, stooping, and stretching.
• Must be able to relocate materials safely and properly.
• Adequate hearing and speaking ability to participate in and provide clear oral communication and information.
• Physical, emotional, and spiritual stamina to handle job-related issues and stress.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs or more.

Other Requirements

• Must demonstrate legal authorization to work in the United States.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in English.
• Valid Florida driver’s license with a good driving record and an insured vehicle for transporting self and orders when necessary.
• Ability to accommodate a flexible work schedule during strategic and holiday periods, including weeknights, weekends, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
• Must pass applicable pre-employment background screening procedures.

Benefits

• Salary: $45,000 - $50,000 annually.
• Group health, vision, and dental coverage at affordable rates, with the option for family coverage.
• Preventative care is 100% covered (free) on all plans.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) for full-time and part-time employees: 11 days of PTO and 10 paid holidays annually.
• Option to participate in a 401K plan with employer match.
• $15,000 in employee life insurance paid for by Metropolitan Ministries.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Option to participate in supplemental group insurance plans at affordable rates.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• Discounted membership at the YMCA.