Chess Instructor | Fall

Chess Wizards•Newcastle, WA

25d•$60 - $75•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors for its after-school enrichment program in Newcastle, Washington. 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 independently managing a lively classroom, engaging students, redirecting behavior when necessary, and encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. Instructors travel to various local school sites, arrive prepared and on time, and follow school safety protocols while supervising students during arrival, dismissal, and class activities. Classes take place 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 the availability of classes at local partner schools. A typical class commitment is approximately 90 minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. Pay is $60–$75 per class, with mileage reimbursement for trips exceeding 15 miles one way from the instructor’s home or work location. Chess Wizards provides full training, ongoing support, curriculum and materials, free chess classes, opportunities for advancement, work flexibility, and a positive company culture. The position is based in Newcastle, WA; relocation assistance is not provided. Candidates must already live in the area or be willing to relocate at their own expense.

Requirements

Experience working with groups of children through teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar activities.
Ability to lead a class independently and create interactive, friendly, and fun sessions.
An upbeat, engaging, professional, positive, and kid-friendly demeanor.
A 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, to teach one to five classes per week, based on local school availability.
Commitment to implementing school safety protocols and strictly following safety and school policies while independently supervising children.
Strong punctuality and time-management skills.
Resume detailing relevant experience, including work with children in educational, recreational, or mentoring settings and any teaching, tutoring, or classroom experience.
Completion of the required application questionnaire about interest in the role, experience with children, and chess-teaching qualifications.
Currently residing in the Newcastle, WA area or 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, keep students engaged, and redirect behavior when needed.
Manage the classroom confidently and positively.
Encourage 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 local school sites for each session.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students.