Family and Consumer Science Teacher (Culinary Arts)

Position Summary

The High School Culinary Arts Teacher is responsible for delivering a comprehensive, standards-aligned culinary arts curriculum that prepares students for careers in the food service and hospitality industry. This position combines classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory experiences, equipping students with professional culinary techniques, food safety knowledge, and industry-ready skills. The teacher fosters a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that promotes student success and career readiness.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and deliver engaging lessons in culinary arts including knife skills, baking and pastry, nutrition, menu planning, and international cuisines.
• Design and facilitate hands-on lab experiences in a commercial-style kitchen setting.
• Align instruction with state CTE standards and National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) frameworks.
• Integrate academic content (math, science, literacy) into culinary instruction.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Maintain strict food safety and sanitation standards in compliance with local health codes.
• Instruct students in ServSafe or equivalent food handler certification preparation.
• Manage kitchen equipment, inventory, and supply ordering within allocated budget.
• Ensure a safe lab environment through consistent enforcement of safety protocols.
• Assess student learning through written exams, practical demonstrations, portfolios, and industry-based assessments.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of student grades, attendance, and progress.
• Provide academic support, feedback, and interventions as needed.
• Advise and mentor students in career pathways in culinary arts and hospitality.
• Coordinate student participation in culinary competitions, internships, and industry events.
• Develop and maintain relationships with local restaurant and hospitality industry partners.
• Organize community events, catering opportunities, and student-led food service experiences.
• Collaborate with colleagues, counselors, and administration to support school-wide goals.
• Participate in professional development, CTE conferences, and ongoing training.
• Maintain required licensure, certifications, and industry knowledge.
• Communicate proactively with parents and guardians regarding student progress.
• Complete administrative duties including lesson planning, inventory logs, and program reports.

Requirements

• Professional Educator License (PEL) with appropriate endorsement(s).
• Valid state teaching license/certification in Culinary Arts, Family & Consumer Sciences, or CTE (or eligibility to obtain).
• Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Hospitality Management, Education, or related field; OR equivalent combination of industry experience and education.
• Minimum 2 years of professional culinary or food service industry experience.
• Current ServSafe Food Manager Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).
• Demonstrated ability to manage a commercial kitchen environment safely and efficiently.

Qualifications

• Valid state teaching license/certification in Culinary Arts, Family & Consumer Sciences, or CTE (or eligibility to obtain).
• Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Science, Hospitality Management, Education, or related field; OR equivalent combination of industry experience and education.
• Minimum 2 years of professional culinary or food service industry experience.
• Current ServSafe Food Manager Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).
• Demonstrated ability to manage a commercial kitchen environment safely and efficiently.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior secondary or post-secondary teaching experience.
• Experience with CTE program development and industry partnerships.
• Membership or involvement in ProStart, SkillsUSA, or culinary professional organizations.
• Bilingual proficiency is a plus.
• Experience with project-based learning and authentic assessment strategies.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• This position requires extended periods of standing, walking, and working in a commercial kitchen environment.
• The teacher must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and work around heat, sharp instruments, and kitchen equipment.
• Some evening or weekend hours may be required for competitions, community events, or professional development.

Supervisor

Courtney Alexander, Department Lead