Assistant Chess Instructor - Fall

Chess Wizards•Downers Grove, IL

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is hiring an Assistant Chess Instructor to support an after-school chess enrichment program for elementary students in Downers Grove, Illinois. The assistant works alongside a Chess Instructor to help run interactive classes of 15–22 students, provide individual and small-group support, reinforce chess fundamentals and sportsmanship, and maintain a positive, safe classroom environment. Classes take place at local schools on weekday afternoons, with start times typically between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Instructors teach between one and five classes per week, depending on local class availability. A typical class lasts approximately 90 minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. The role requires travel between school sites and reliable personal transportation. Pay is $40 per class, with mileage reimbursement for trips over 15 miles one way. Chess Wizards provides full training and ongoing support, curriculum and materials, and free chess classes. The position offers flexibility and opportunities to advance to Chess Instructor. Candidates must live in the Downers Grove area or be willing to relocate at their own expense; relocation assistance is not provided. Applicants must complete a questionnaire about their interest, experience working with children, and chess qualifications.

Requirements

Genuine interest in working with groups of elementary students.
Ability to follow direction and support the Chess Instructor’s classroom management.
Professional, positive, and kid-friendly demeanor.
Desire to be a positive role model and promote good sportsmanship.
Strong grasp of chess fundamentals, including piece movement, basic strategy, and simple tactics, with the ability to explain them in an age-appropriate way.
Ability to connect chess problem-solving to real-life problem-solving.
Reliable personal transportation and ability to drive between locations.
Availability on weekday afternoons, with class start times between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, for one to five classes per week, depending on local school availability.
Commitment to school safety protocols and strict adherence to safety and school policies.
Strong punctuality and time-management skills.
Must currently reside in the Downers Grove area or be willing to relocate at personal expense.
Completion of the required application questionnaire.

Nice To Haves

Experience in teaching, tutoring, camp counseling, or a similar role.

Responsibilities

Assist the Chess Instructor with setting up and managing interactive chess classes for 15–22 elementary students.
Provide one-on-one or small-group support to help students practice piece movements and understand basic concepts.
Support classroom activities, student engagement, and positive behavior.
Follow the structured curriculum and promote good sportsmanship alongside the Chess Instructor.
Manage a lively classroom with confidence and positivity.
Encourage problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.
Follow school safety protocols and supervise students during arrival, dismissal, and class activities.
Travel to local school sites for each session.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students.