Chess Instructor | Fall

Chess Wizards•Mercer Island, WA

24d•$60 - $75•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking an enthusiastic, reliable instructor for its after-school chess enrichment program in Mercer Island, Washington. The instructor leads fun, interactive classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students, using a structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and encourage good sportsmanship, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. The role involves independently managing a lively classroom, engaging students and redirecting behavior when needed, and following school safety protocols while supervising students during arrival, dismissal, and class activities. Instructors travel to assigned local school sites and are expected to arrive prepared and on time. Classes are held on weekday afternoons, with start times typically between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Instructors teach from one to five classes per week, depending on availability at 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 over 15 miles one way. Chess Wizards provides full training, ongoing support, curriculum and materials, and free chess classes. Relocation assistance is not provided; candidates must live in the area or be willing to relocate at their own expense.

Requirements

Experience working with groups of children, such as through teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar work.
Ability to lead a class independently and create interactive, friendly, and fun sessions.
Professional, positive, kid-friendly demeanor and an upbeat, engaging approach.
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 implementing school safety protocols and following safety and school policies while independently supervising children.
Strong punctuality and time-management skills.
Resume detailing relevant experience, including work with children and any teaching, tutoring, or classroom experience.
Completion of the required application questionnaire about interest in the role, experience working with children, and qualifications to teach chess.
Currently residing in the Mercer Island area or willingness to relocate at personal expense.

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.
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 sessions.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students.