Chess Instructor | Fall

Chess Wizards•Portland, OR

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic and reliable instructors for its after-school chess enrichment program in Portland, Oregon. Instructors lead fun, interactive classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students, using a structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and encourage good sportsmanship. The role involves independently managing a lively classroom, supporting student engagement and behavior, and following school safety procedures while supervising students during arrival, dismissal, and class activities. Instructors travel to local school sites for sessions and should arrive prepared and on time. Classes are scheduled on weekday afternoons. The posting gives typical start times of 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in one section and a required availability window of 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM in another. Instructors teach between one and five classes per week, depending on local school availability. Each class typically takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. Pay is $50–$75 per class. Mileage reimbursement is provided for trips over 15 miles one way from home or work. Work locations are assigned based on available schools and classes. Full training, curriculum and materials, ongoing support, free chess classes, advancement opportunities, flexible work, and a positive company culture are offered. Relocation assistance is not provided; candidates must already reside in the Portland area or relocate at their own expense.

Requirements

Experience working with groups of children through teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar work.
Ability to lead a class independently and create interactive, friendly, and fun sessions.
Upbeat, engaging, professional, positive, and kid-friendly demeanor.
Genuine desire to serve as 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.
Weekday afternoon availability; the posting specifies class start times of 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM in its availability requirement and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in its schedule description.
Availability to teach one to five classes per week, depending on local partner-school availability.
Commitment to implementing school safety protocols and strictly adhering to 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, experience working with children, and chess-teaching qualifications.
Currently reside in the Portland area or be willing to relocate at personal expense.

Responsibilities

Lead interactive chess classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students.
Use the provided structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and promote good sportsmanship.
Guide activities, engage students, and redirect behavior when needed.
Manage a lively classroom with confidence and positivity.
Encourage problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, including connections between chess and 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.