Culinary & Hospitality Teacher - YouthBuild

LearningWorks•Portland, ME

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

LearningWorks is seeking a Culinary & Hospitality Instructor to provide engaging, hands-on culinary and hospitality instruction to YouthBuild participants. This role blends technical training, mentorship, and youth development while helping students strengthen workplace skills, communication, teamwork, and confidence. This role is primarily in person, with instruction taking place in classrooms, kitchens, and community partner locations, along with occasional remote flexibility for planning and administrative responsibilities. The ideal candidate understands that relationship-building is essential to this role. Some participants may initially demonstrate inconsistent engagement, hesitancy, or limited willingness to participate due to previous educational experiences or significant life barriers. Successful staff approach this work with empathy, consistency, accountability, and a commitment to helping students feel supported while maintaining high expectations.

Requirements

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in culinary arts, hospitality, education, youth development, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
Minimum of 2 years of experience working with youth in educational, workforce, or community-based settings
Experience in culinary arts, food service, hospitality, or kitchen management
Valid Maine driver's license with a clean driving record and ability to transport students in agency vehicles
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in active kitchen environments

Nice To Haves

ProStart Instructor Certification
ServSafe Manager Certification
Experience in workforce development or alternative education settings

Responsibilities

Deliver hands-on culinary and hospitality instruction in classroom and kitchen settings
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized kitchen environment
Supervise students during food preparation and experiential learning opportunities
Model professionalism, teamwork, food safety, and hospitality industry standards
Mentor and support youth in personal and professional development
Build strong relationships that encourage student engagement and persistence
Collaborate with restaurants, hotels, and hospitality partners
Support program planning, documentation, and student progress tracking
Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and relationship-centered culture

Benefits

Unlimited PTO after 90 days of employment
403(b) retirement plan with employer match up to 3% after one year of employment
Medical and dental insurance with very low employee premiums
No cost access to HRA
Access to FSA and Dependent Care FSA
Flexible scheduling options
Employer Provided Short-term disability coverage
Paid state holidays
Employer-paid life insurance
Retirement planning resources and support