Culinary JOB TRAINING PROGRAM

If you are interested in APPLYING to the Root Culinary Job Training Program, please fill out the Application by clicking on the button below. 

If you have questions about the Root Culinary Job Training Program, please email the Program Team.

What is Root's Culinary Job Training Program? 

A 14-week culinary job training program that combines hands-on food service training with workforce readiness skills. Trainees work with a professional chef every day, work on communication skills, learn about the restaurant industry, receive one-on-one job coaching, complete an externship in a local restaurant/food business, work at Root events to gain real-world experience, and learn about personal finance skills.

Who is the Root Program for?

Individuals who…

  • Are between the ages of 16 and 26

  • Can commit to a part-time, 14-week training program in Salem, MA

  • Available Monday through Thursday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

  • Are interested in getting a job in the food service industry after completing Root

  • Are able to complete a W4 form and an I9 form

2023 Fall Program Dates

  • September 18th - December 21st

2024 Program Dates

  • Winter/Spring: January 22nd - April 25th

  • Summer: May 20th - August 22nd

  • Fall: September 16th - December 19th

What Will I Get From Root?

  • 200+ hours of culinary and food service training in a professional, first-class kitchen

  • Workforce readiness, personal finance, and job coaching workshops

  • A $1,200 stipend while also learning new skills and building connections

  • Culinary training led by an experienced professional chef, with opportunities to learn from area special guest chefs

  • Two (2) industry certifications (ServSafe Food Handler and Allergen Awareness)

  • FitMoney certification

  • Off-site experience at one of Root's restaurant and food-service partners

  • Eligibility for employment opportunities in our Root Community Kitchen, which are only available to Root graduates

  • Access to post-graduation services, including (but not limited to): future support in job searches, industry skills clinics, additional training opportunities, and much more! 

I completed Root in 2018 and graduated Salem High in June 2020.  I began working with the Root Community Catering team in late 2020, and since then I’ve been able to further develop my culinary skills and grow as a leader in the kitchen.
— Eboni, Root Alumna

Not quite ready to apply? Have further questions? Fill out an Interest Form and someone will get back to you.