Seasonal Chef Instructor (Sur La Table)

CSC Generation•Austin, TX

12d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Seasonal Chef Instructor at Sur La Table, you are the in-store expert and advocate for the culinary arts, specializing in savory cooking, pastry and baking, or both. You deliver the company’s #bestincenter service by sharing culinary and pastry techniques, cooking and baking fundamentals, and personalized instruction that supports company initiatives. The role inspires customers to cook and bake while driving sales of cookware, cutlery, bakeware, mixers, and kitchen tools through hands-on classes and engaging instruction. The position delivers in-store classes using provided recipes and game plans, communicates techniques in an approachable manner, and supports class setup, cleanup, kitchen readiness, food safety, inventory, and store operations. It requires availability of 12–16 hours per week, with a flexible schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays; scheduled hours may vary with business needs.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old at the time of employment.
Demonstrated proficiency in savory cooking, pastry and baking, or both.
1–2 years of kitchen operations experience.
Valid Food Manager Certification.
Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Passion for community engagement and providing exceptional customer experiences.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Availability to work 12–16 hours per week with a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to remain standing for up to four hours at a time; move around the store; and grab, reach, push, pull, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and use hands for food preparation and demonstrations.
Ability to lift or move merchandise weighing up to 50 pounds and ascend or descend ladders.
Ability to perceive and distinguish flavors and odors.
Ability to use a computer, POS system, keyboard, merchandise scanners, and mouse.
Ability to work in a variable kitchen environment, including open flames, hot surfaces, temperature variations, and physical or airborne food allergens.
Regular and predictable attendance, with flexibility to adjust class assignments based on demand.

Nice To Haves

A degree in culinary arts is preferred; extensive culinary experience and demonstrated technical proficiency may be considered in lieu of formal education.

Responsibilities

Represent Sur La Table’s brand and culture by creating educational experiences that encourage repeat visits and customer loyalty.
Teach savory, pastry, and baking classes using provided recipes and game plans to ensure consistency and quality.
Explain cooking concepts and techniques clearly and encouragingly.
Stay current on products, participate in available training, and seek additional learning resources.
Promote retail items used or featured in class and encourage customers to sign up for additional classes.
Meet class revenue and culinary program goals, including goals for enrollment, customer feedback, return visits, second-class sign-ups, and retail sales.
Set up and break down classes, organize mise en place, prepare ingredients, and clean workstations.
Clean and sanitize dishes and equipment, and restock, organize, and maintain kitchen supplies and tools.
Follow food safety standards, local health codes, and sanitation regulations.
Handle ingredients, tools, and kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
Maintain accurate inventory, minimize shrink, and control supply and culinary expenses.
Handle liquor, wine, or beer where applicable in compliance with regulations and company policies, including age restrictions.
Maintain store safety and cleanliness and promptly address maintenance needs.
Follow wage and hour laws, record time worked accurately, and adhere to company policies and standard operating procedures.