Assistant Chess Instructor - Fall

Chess Wizards•Canton, MI

18d•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking an enthusiastic, reliable Assistant Chess Instructor to support its after-school enrichment program for elementary students in Canton, Michigan. The role offers hands-on teaching experience and the opportunity to help students learn chess and develop problem-solving skills. Assistants support a Chess Instructor in running interactive classes for 15–22 students, using a structured curriculum and promoting engagement, 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. Assistants teach between one and five classes per week, depending on local school availability. A typical class is approximately one hour and 30 minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. The role requires travel between assigned school locations and reliable personal transportation. Mileage reimbursement is provided for trips exceeding 15 miles one way from home or work. Chess Wizards provides full training and ongoing support, curriculum and materials, free chess classes, flexible work, and opportunities to advance to Chess Instructor. Applicants must complete a required questionnaire about their interest, experience working with children, and chess-teaching qualifications. The position is based in Canton, MI; relocation assistance is not provided.

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.
Genuine desire to be a positive role model and promote good sportsmanship.
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.
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.
Completion of the 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

Help the Chess Instructor set up and manage 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.
Assist with activities, student engagement, and positive classroom 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 assigned local school sites for each session.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students.