About Us
Unionville College (UC Summer Camp) is a hands-on culinary summer camp dedicated to empowering kids and teens (ages 9–15) to explore their creativity and develop real-world kitchen skills. Through guided instruction, interactive cooking experiences, and fun culinary challenges, our campers grow in confidence and culinary competence.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced, passionate Culinary Chef to lead culinary instruction and kitchen operations at our summer camp. The ideal candidate has a strong background in culinary arts, enjoys working with youth, and is committed to fostering a positive and safe learning experience.
Responsibilities
- Plan and lead age-appropriate cooking lessons and workshops tailored to students in Grades 4–10, adjusting complexity and difficulty for different age groups
- Teach fundamental cooking skills including knife safety, food preparation, cooking techniques, kitchen equipment use, and food hygiene practices.
- Demonstrate proper food handling and sanitation procedures consistent with health department regulations.
- Facilitate group cooking projects that emphasize collaboration, creativity, and fun while building confidence and culinary interest.
- Incorporate nutrition education into cooking lessons to promote healthy eating habits.
- Manage camp kitchen resources, ingredients, equipment, and supplies responsibly and maintain a clean, organized cooking space.
- Ensure student safety during all cooking activities and maintain awareness of allergies, dietary restrictions, and individual learning needs.
- Adapt lessons to accommodate diverse learning styles and physical abilities.
- Encourage creative expression through cooking and food presentation.
- Build positive relationships with campers and collaborate effectively with other camp staff members
Qualifications:
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED); some post-secondary culinary education preferred.
- Demonstrated experience teaching cooking or leading culinary activities with children or youth (at least 1 year).
- Ability to effectively communicate with and inspire children of varying ages and backgrounds.
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and work in a warm kitchen environment.
- First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain before camp starts).
- Successful background check and references.
- Reliable transportation and flexible summer availability
Preferred:
- Formal culinary training, ServSafe certification, or equivalent food safety credential
- Experience working in a professional kitchen or food service environment.
- Knowledge of diverse cuisines and ability to accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, allergy-friendly, etc.)
- Experience teaching nutrition or health-related subjects
- Prior camp counselor experience
Skills and Competencies
- Enthusiastic, patient, and encouraging demeanor
- Creative and flexible problem-solver
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Excellent interpersonal and teamwork abilities
- Passion for cooking and genuine interest in youth development
- Ability to adapt instruction to diverse learning levels and engagement styles
At Unionville College, we foster a collaborative and supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and development. Join our passionate team of educators and contribute to the success of our students.
Unionville College is an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing accommodation for applicants with disabilities. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know. All requests for accommodation will be treated confidentially and will be met to the best of our ability in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code.
While all applicants are thanked for their interest, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Pay: From $25.00 per hour
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Stouffville, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Do you have a High school diploma or equivalent (GED)?
Experience:
- teaching cooking for children or youth: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person
