Description

The Culinary Arts Specialist is a hands-on instructor and program facilitator responsible for delivering engaging culinary and hospitality training to teens in juvenile justice facilities. This role combines in-class instruction, student mentoring, and program coordination—ensuring high-quality learning experiences that prepare students for certification, employment, and personal growth. This is an in-person role during class time, primarily at our McKinney location, with occasional support in South Dallas and community-based settings. Class prep and some administrative work can be completed remotely. 

Requirements

Program Instruction & Facilitation

• Lead hands-on culinary instruction, including food safety, nutrition, kitchen fundamentals, and front-of-house service.
• Prepare youth for Food Handler and Food Manager certification exams (proctor training provided).
• Deliver curriculum aligned with YWF standards, collaborating with the Culinary Program Manager on lesson planning, menus, and classroom experience.
• Organize and facilitate capstone catering events to showcase student skills each quarter.

Student Engagement & Support

• Serve as a mentor and role model, fostering a professional, respectful, and growth-oriented learning environment.
• Support students through the full program lifecycle—intake, attendance, certification, documentation, and reentry preparation.
• Oversee student roles during catering events and provide supervision for interns.
• Administrative & Operational Support
• Maintain accurate student records in Salesforce or designated systems.
• Coordinate food purchasing, inventory, and equipment upkeep for culinary classes and events.
• Develop relationships with community chefs, volunteers, and potential employers to enhance program impact.

Events & Community Engagement

• Coordinate field trips to culinary institutions and local restaurants.
• Assist with the execution of fundraising and community engagement events annually in both McKinney and Dallas locations.
• Represent YWF and the Culinary Arts Program professionally in all external interactions.

Qualifications & Skills

• Minimum 2 years of professional culinary or catering/event experience.
• Teaching or youth mentorship experience preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities independently while contributing to a team.
• Availability for weekday, late afternoon classes, and occasional event support.
• Must complete required training and pass Collin County and Dallas County Juvenile Department background checks.