Youth Enrichment Instructor - Cooking

Hopkins-Public-Schools; Hillside (IL); On-site; USD 37,470 - 59,815; Part time

Job summary

Hopkins Public Schools is searching for a Community Education/Enrichment Instructor who will be responsible for delivering high-quality culinary programming for youth. This role will focus on teaching basic cooking skills, nutrition awareness, and kitchen safety through engaging lessons.

The ideal candidate will have a High School Diploma or GED, along with 2+ years of experience working with youth. The position emphasizes creating inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience working with youth.
• Experience in culinary arts or food education preferred.
• Ability to ensure food safety and kitchen safety.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging culinary programming focused on youth.
• Manage food purchasing, preparation, and storage.
• Communicate effectively with participants and families.

Skills

Working with youth

Culinary skills

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Position Type: Community Education/ Enrichment Instructor

Date Posted: 5/28/2026

At Hopkins Public Schools, we believe that our strength lies in the diversity of our students, staff, and community. We are a proudly inclusive E-12 district serving approximately 7,200 students across the City of Hopkins and surrounding communities. Our district represents a rich mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences; we value and celebrate that diversity in everything we do. As an academically rigorous and human-centered district, we are committed to fostering a welcoming environment where every student and staff member feels seen, heard, and valued. There is no \"typical\" Hopkins student, and we embrace this truth as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and equity in learning. We seek educators and staff who are equity-minded, culturally responsive, and deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where all learners can thrive. We welcome candidates who are passionate about dismantling systemic barriers, advancing justice, and preparing students to become bold, collaborative, and compassionate global citizens. When you join Hopkins Public Schools, you are not just joining a district, you are becoming part of a community that honors difference, nurtures potential, and inspires remarkable achievement in every learner, from birth through graduation. You are welcome at Hopkins. You belong at Hopkins.

SUMMARY

The Youth Enrichment Instructor is part of the Hopkins Community Education Youth Enrichment team and is responsible for delivering high-quality, engaging, and inclusive programming for youth. This position is supervised by the Supervisor of Enrichment and contributes to a cohesive, district-wide enrichment model serving students across multiple sites and program areas.

POSITION OVERVIEW

This role focuses on hands‑on culinary programming, teaching youth basic cooking skills, nutrition awareness, and kitchen safety through engaging, age-appropriate lessons.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Core Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate programming aligned with Community Education standards
• Ensure the safety and supervision of all participants
• Foster inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments
• Manage attendance, transitions, and program routines
• Communicate effectively with students, families, and staff
• Maintain program materials, spaces, and documentation
• Follow all district policies, procedures, and behavior guidance practices
• Support a collaborative, team-based enrichment model across sites

Role‑Specific Responsibilities

• Plan and lead hands‑on cooking classes and camps
• Ensure food safety, sanitation, and kitchen safety practices
• Manage food purchasing, preparation, and storage within district guidelines
• Adapt recipes and instruction to accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED
• 2+ years of experience working with youth

Preferred

• Experience in culinary arts, food education, or hospitality
• Food safety certification

PHYSICAL / WORKING CONDITIONS

• Ability to actively supervise and engage with youth for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds
• Work in classroom or kitchen environments
• Schedule may include evenings, weekends, and non‑school days

Compensation and Schedule

Hourly Range: $27.20 – $43.42 DOE, 261 Days

Position specific Benefits information is available HERE

Union Contracts, Position Handbook/Agreements are located HERE