Temporary Recreation Leader IV - Cooking Instructor

Alexandria, United States

Temporary Recreation Leader IV - Cooking Instructor

(Seniors)

About Alexandria
The City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia along the Potomac River, neighboring Washington, D.C., Arlington County, and Fairfax County. With a population of approximately 160,000, Alexandria is the seventh-largest city in Virginia. Renowned for its historic charm, diverse neighborhoods, and community-minded spirit, Alexandria is a wonderful place to live, work, and make a lasting impact.

Position Overview
The Cooking Instructor (Seniors) is responsible for planning and leading engaging, hands-on cooking classes for older adults. This position encourages healthy eating, social connection, and lifelong learning while supporting the department’s mission to promote wellness and community engagement.

Morning availability is required, as most classes for seniors are scheduled during weekday mornings.

What You Should Bring
We’re looking for an enthusiastic, patient, and creative instructor who enjoys working with older adults and can foster a fun, safe, and supportive environment. The ideal candidate will:

Have experience teaching cooking, nutrition, or food preparation in group settings
Demonstrate knowledge of age-appropriate health, wellness, and dietary considerations
Adapt recipes and activities to meet varying skill levels and abilities
Show professionalism, dependability, and enthusiasm in working with seniors
Encourage social interaction, confidence, and enjoyment through cooking
Be comfortable with tracking attendance and managing class logistics

Your Impact
As a Cooking Instructor, you will:

Lead engaging and educational cooking classes tailored for seniors
Promote healthy eating habits, kitchen safety, and practical cooking skills
Provide an enjoyable opportunity for participants to learn, socialize, and connect
Help foster confidence and independence through culinary activities
Support RPCA’s commitment to accessible, enriching, and wellness-centered programming

About the Department
The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) delivers inclusive programs, maintains high-quality public spaces, and promotes wellness across Alexandria. RPCA is a nationally accredited agency through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), recognized for excellence in meeting over 150 best practice standards.

Minimum & Additional Requirements

Minimum: Associate Degree and four (4) years of experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

Certification or formal training in culinary arts, nutrition, or wellness instruction
CPR and First Aid certification
Experience working with older adults or multi-generational groups
Knowledge of healthy cooking, dietary needs, and food safety practices

Notes

Scheduling Notes
Morning availability is required. Classes are typically scheduled on weekday mornings, with occasional opportunities to support special events or seasonal workshops. A consistent schedule will be established based on participant demand and instructor availability.

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