Chess Instructor | Fall

Chess Wizards•Downers Grove, IL

20d•$65 - $75•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors for its after-school enrichment program in Downers Grove, Illinois. Instructors lead fun, interactive chess classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students, using a structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and good sportsmanship. The role involves keeping students engaged, guiding activities, managing classroom behavior, and encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. Instructors independently supervise children and follow school safety protocols during arrival, dismissal, and class activities. They travel to local school sites and are expected to arrive prepared and on time. Classes are scheduled 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 availability at local partner schools. Each class takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. Pay is $65–$75 per class. Mileage reimbursement is provided for trips exceeding 15 miles one way from the instructor’s home or work location. Work locations are assigned by a manager based on available schools and classes. Chess Wizards provides full training, ongoing support, curriculum and materials, free chess classes, advancement opportunities, work flexibility, and a positive company culture. The position is based in Downers Grove, IL; relocation assistance is not provided. Applicants must live in the area or be willing to relocate at their own expense. Applicants must submit a resume and complete a required questionnaire about their interest, experience with children, and chess-teaching qualifications.

Requirements

Experience working with groups of children through teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar activities.
Comfort leading a class independently and creating interactive, friendly, and fun sessions.
Professional, positive, kid-friendly demeanor and an upbeat, engaging approach.
Genuine desire to serve as a positive role model and promote good sportsmanship.
Strong grasp of chess fundamentals, including piece movement, basic strategy, and simple tactics, and 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 implementing school safety protocols and adhering strictly to school policies while independently supervising children.
Strong punctuality and time-management skills.
Submit a resume detailing relevant experience, including work with children and any teaching, tutoring, or classroom experience.
Complete the required application questionnaire.
Currently reside in the Downers Grove area or be willing to relocate at personal expense; relocation assistance is not provided.

Responsibilities

Lead interactive chess classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students.
Use the structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and promote good sportsmanship.
Guide activities, maintain student engagement, and redirect behavior when needed.
Manage a lively classroom confidently and positively.
Encourage students’ problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.
Connect chess problem-solving to real-life problem-solving.
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.