Assistant Chess Instructor - Fall

Chess Wizards•Downers Grove, IL

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is hiring an Assistant Chess Instructor to support its after-school chess enrichment program for elementary students in the Downers Grove, Illinois area. The assistant works alongside a Chess Instructor to help set up and manage engaging classes of 15–22 students, support students as they learn chess fundamentals, and encourage positive behavior and good sportsmanship. 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 school availability. Each class typically takes approximately 90 minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. The position pays $40 per class, with mileage reimbursement for trips exceeding 15 miles one way. Reliable personal transportation is required. Candidates must reside in the area or be willing to relocate at their own expense; relocation assistance is not provided. A required application questionnaire covers interest in the role, experience working with children, and chess-teaching qualifications. Chess Wizards provides training, ongoing support, a curriculum and materials, free chess classes, work flexibility, and advancement opportunities to Chess Instructor.

Requirements

Genuine interest in working with groups of elementary students.
Strong grasp of chess fundamentals, including the ability to explain piece movement, basic strategy, and simple tactics in an age-appropriate way.
Ability to connect chess problem-solving to real-life problem-solving.
Ability to follow direction and support the Chess Instructor's classroom management.
Professional, positive, kid-friendly demeanor and an engaging approach to supporting learning.
Genuine desire to be a positive role model and promote good sportsmanship.
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 school availability.
Commitment to implementing school safety protocols and adhering strictly to safety and school policies.
Strong reliability, punctuality, and time-management skills.
Must currently reside in the Downers Grove, Illinois area or be willing to relocate at personal expense.
Completion of a required application questionnaire about interest in the role, experience working with children, and qualifications to teach chess.

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 as students practice piece movements and learn basic chess concepts.
Help guide activities, keep students engaged, and reinforce 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 and prepared to engage students.