Culinary Instructor

**Who We Are**:
At Elephant Thoughts, we transform lives through education. As a registered Canadian charitable organization, we are dedicated to unleashing the potential of youth facing barriers; nurturing future global leaders who value the environment, cultural understanding, and civic engagement.

**Who You Are**:
You’re passionate about the culinary arts and the power of food to bring people together. You believe that education can drive personal growth and community connection, and you’re eager to share your culinary expertise with youth from diverse backgrounds. As a collaborative, hands-on leader, you thrive in dynamic environments—whether in the kitchen, teaching a class, or organizing culinary events. If you’re ready to inspire and be inspired, join us at Elephant Thoughts: education for a changing world.

If this sounds like you, keep reading.

We are seeking a **Culinary Instructor** for our **Workforce Development Program**, a unique opportunity that offers flexibility in start date and contract length based on experience and accreditation. This role involves leading culinary workshops and overseeing catering for program participants and group bookings at multiple locations, including our Riverstone Campus in Durham, and the Collingwood Youth Centre.

**Key Responsibilities**

**Teach and Lead Culinary Skills Training**:

- Deliver engaging culinary lessons to participants in the Workforce Development Program, focusing on building practical skills in meal preparation, menu planning, and kitchen management.

**Cater for On-Site Guests & Programs**:

- Lead participants in preparing meals for guests, other program groups, and staff, ensuring high-quality food service and the integration of participants into every stage of meal preparation.

**Collaborate on Culinary Curriculum**:

- Work with the culinary team to develop and refine a curriculum that includes a wide variety of cuisines and accommodates dietary restrictions and preferences.

**Plan and Prepare for Culinary Events**:

- Prepare kitchens, ingredients, and equipment for events and workshops, ensuring seamless transitions between activities and a professional kitchen environment.

**Foster a Collaborative Learning Environment**:

- Create an inclusive, supportive space that encourages participants to engage, experiment, and grow in their culinary skills.

**Essential Knowledge and/or Skills**
- **Red Seal Certification** or equivalent qualification is a significant asset.
- Experience working in a commercial kitchen, including staffing, stocking, and preparing meals for large groups.
- Strong knowledge of food safety standards and meal preparation techniques across a variety of cuisines.
- Experience in culinary instruction or educational environments.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and virtual platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams).
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and comfortably move around kitchens and event spaces.
- A team player with flexibility, initiative, and the ability to engage and motivate participants.
- Valid Canadian driver’s license and access to transportation.
- Current police clearance report with attention to vulnerable sector screening.

**Desirable Qualifications**
- Experience working with children and youth, particularly those from diverse or challenging backgrounds.
- Experience handling dietary restrictions and creating adaptable meal plans.

**Benefits**:

- Access to Kii CloudMD Employee Assistance Program.

**Note**:

- Elephant Thoughts maintains a smoke-free, perfume-free, and drug-free environment for work, living, and travel._

**Job Types**: Full-time, Fixed term contract

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
- Paid time off

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person