Job Title: Independent Instructor/Baker
Location: 7920 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, KS 66204
Type: Freelance, paid per class. Varied, flexible schedule (evenings and weekends) depending on availability.
Job Description
Do you want to be the next Dominique Ansel or Christina Tosi? We're looking for an experienced, classically trained baker who wants to wow audiences and draw crowds. We want a dynamic personality that can lead interactive and diverse baking classes. This role requires the person to be an excellent teacher and communicator, and a skilled baker with creativity, leadership abilities, and meticulous organization. We're looking for a skilled bakery and pastry chef capable of teaching bread-making (sourdough a huge plus), pastries, decorating, etc.
Company Overview
We are passionate about the culinary arts! The Culinary Center of Kansas City, a beloved institution in downtown Overland Park, has been serving the community for 30 years. Our vision is to set the standard of excellence for interactive cooking and baking experiences in the Midwest. We host over 500 cooking classes yearly for thousands of people and private events, interactive cooking parties, and team-building sessions for local companies, organizations, families, and friend groups. Our guests are eager to learn, connect, and enjoy the fruits of their labor in a communal dining experience. Our retail store sells a curated selection of high-quality cooking implements, cookbooks, food items, gifts, and more. We are opening our second location in the Northland (The Village at Briarcliff) in March 2026. This Independent Instructor will teach primarily at our Overland Park location, but there may be opportunity for this Instructor to teach in Briarcliff, as well.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and teach varied baking classes to guests, including proven concepts and newly designed classes. This includes guiding guests in proper baking techniques and managing class timing to ensure completion of baking and tasting within scheduled timeframes.
- Ensure food safety, kitchen cleanliness, and sanitation protocols are strictly followed.
- Stay up-to-date on baking trends and best practices; identify opportunities to enhance and update classes.
Benefits
- Highly competitive compensation that is paid per class taught
- Part-time, flexible schedule for full-time working professionals
- Fun and engaging work environment within a well-established and beloved institution
- Opportunity to learn about the baking industry and products
- Access to professional kitchen facilities and equipment
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience as a baker or pastry chef in fine dining restaurant, bakery, or similar professional kitchen
- Degree from an accredited culinary or pastry institute
- Passion for teaching
- Excellent communication skills, including ability to break down complex techniques into teachable components
- Ability to lead class of up to 36 students
- Outstanding baking skills, deep knowledge of baking theory, ingredients and technique
- Experience developing recipes for breads, pastries, desserts, and other baked goods
- Strong organizational and time management abilities
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Current food safety certification
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous teaching or training experience
- Commitment to teach 4-8 classes per month
- Experience in curriculum development, including instructional materials and class timelines
- Expertise in multiple baking traditions and styles (French pastry, artisan breads, American desserts, etc.)
- ServSafe® Instructor certification
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Capable of lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds
- Manual dexterity for dough handling, decorating, and baking techniques
- Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment
How to Apply
If you want to share your passion for baking, we encourage you to apply for the Independent Instructor/Baker position. To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications to .
Join us in creating exceptional baking experiences and helping our guests enhance their at-home baking adventures! The Culinary Center of Kansas City is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome diverse applicants to join our team.
Job Type: Freelance/Independent
Pay: Paid per class taught
Schedule: Sunday to Saturday
Work Location: In person
Job Type: Contract
Pay: $250.00 - $700.00 per day
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
