Chess Instructor | Fall

Chess Wizards•Thousand Oaks, CA

12d•$55 - $75•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors to lead after-school chess enrichment classes for elementary students in Thousand Oaks, California. Instructors teach groups of approximately 10–15 students using a structured curriculum, making chess engaging while fostering good sportsmanship, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. The role requires independent classroom leadership, student supervision, adherence to school safety protocols, and travel to various local school sites. 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 class availability at local partner schools. A typical class takes approximately 90 minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. Pay is $55–$75 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, advancement opportunities, flexible work, and a positive company culture. The position is based in Thousand Oaks, CA; relocation assistance is not provided.

Requirements

Experience working with groups of children through teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar work.
Comfort leading a class independently and creating interactive, friendly, and fun sessions.
An upbeat, engaging, professional, positive, and kid-friendly demeanor.
A 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 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 working with children, and qualifications to teach chess.
Currently residing in the Thousand Oaks area or willing 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.
Manage a lively classroom confidently and positively, keeping students engaged and redirecting behavior when needed.
Encourage problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, and connect chess problem-solving to real-life problem-solving.
Follow school safety protocols and supervise students during arrival, dismissal, and in-class activities.
Travel to various local school sites for each session.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students.