Chess Instructor | Fall

Chess Wizards•Chicago, IL

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors for its after-school chess enrichment program serving elementary students in the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Instructors lead interactive classes for groups of approximately 10–15 students, use a structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and sportsmanship, and foster problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. The role requires independently guiding students, maintaining a positive classroom environment, and following school safety protocols, including during arrival, dismissal, and class activities. Instructors travel to local school sites assigned according to available classes and must 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 a minimum of one and a maximum of five classes per week, depending on local school availability. A typical class takes approximately 90 minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. Pay is $45–$65 per class. Mileage reimbursement is provided for trips exceeding 15 miles one way from the instructor’s home or work location. Chess Wizards provides full training and ongoing support, curriculum and materials, free chess classes, opportunities for advancement, work flexibility, and a positive company culture. The position is based in Chicago, Illinois. Relocation assistance is not provided; applicants must reside in the area or be willing to relocate at their own expense. Applicants must submit a resume and complete a required questionnaire. Chess Wizards is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

Experience working with groups of children, such as through teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar work.
Comfort leading a class independently and creating interactive, friendly, and fun sessions.
Upbeat, engaging, 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.
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, to teach one to five classes per week depending on local availability.
Commitment to implementing school safety protocols and strictly following safety and 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 about interest in the role, experience working with children, and qualifications to teach chess.

Responsibilities

Lead fun, interactive chess classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students.
Use the structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and promote good sportsmanship.
Guide activities, keep students engaged, and redirect behavior when needed.
Manage a lively classroom with confidence and positivity.
Encourage problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, including connecting chess problem-solving to real-life problem-solving.
Follow school safety protocols and supervise students during arrival, dismissal, and in-class activities.
Travel to assigned local school sites for each session.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students.