Baking Instructor

Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan•New York, NY

1d•$75 - $100•Onsite

About The Position

The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan's Tween + Teen Engagement department seeks a creative, enthusiastic, and experienced Baking Instructor to develop and lead hands-on baking classes for tweens and teens ages 11–15. The role involves designing and facilitating engaging classes that balance culinary instruction, creativity, and fun, while helping young people explore interests, develop practical skills, build confidence, and connect with peers in a welcoming and inclusive environment. The instructor develops age-appropriate curriculum, plans weekly recipes and lessons, adapts instruction to varying experience levels and learning needs, and manages classes in a safe and supportive environment. The role also includes preparing ingredients and equipment, overseeing cleanup, following kosher kitchen and food safety policies, and collaborating with the Director of Tween + Teen Engagement on curriculum, supplies, and program planning. The position is based at the JCC community center on Manhattan's Upper West Side. The schedule is Tuesdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., January through May 2027. Compensation is $75–$100 per hour, commensurate with experience.

Requirements

Experience in baking, culinary arts, culinary education, or a related field.
Ability to independently develop lesson plans and lead engaging group activities.
Strong communication, organizational, and group management skills.
Knowledge of kitchen safety, food handling, and allergy awareness.
Ability to commit to a consistent weekly schedule throughout the program session.
Availability Tuesdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. from January 2027 through May 2027.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience teaching or working with tweens and teens.
Culinary training or relevant certifications.

Responsibilities

Develop and teach an engaging, age-appropriate baking curriculum for participants ages 11–15.
Plan weekly recipes and lessons that introduce foundational baking techniques, kitchen safety, and culinary creativity.
Create opportunities for participants to develop independence, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and confidence in the kitchen.
Adapt recipes and instruction to accommodate varying experience levels and learning needs.
Manage classroom activities while maintaining a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Teach and reinforce proper food handling, sanitation, and safe use of kitchen equipment.
Prepare ingredients, supplies, and equipment before classes and oversee cleanup afterward.
Follow JCC kosher kitchen policies, food safety procedures, and allergy guidelines.
Collaborate with the Director of Tween + Teen Engagement on curriculum development, supply needs, and program planning.