Youth Chess Instructor (Greenpoint YMCA)

YMCA of Greater New York•Brooklyn, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Greater New York is seeking a Youth Chess Instructor for the Greenpoint YMCA. This part-time role is responsible for teaching fundamental Chess skills to children and teens in a fun, supportive, and engaging environment. The instructor will foster a positive classroom atmosphere, encourage confidence in chess abilities, and provide constructive feedback. The position requires embodying YMCA Core Values and contributing to a culture of learning and community impact.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Minimum of one (1) year of experience teaching Chess to children/teens in a structured setting.
A strong grasp of chess fundamentals, basic openings, and middle-game tactics.
Ability to communicate effectively with members of all ages.
Content expert in designated areas of Chess.
Ability to adapt teaching styles to accommodate diverse learning needs and behavioral levels.
Must complete Child Abuse Prevention Training within thirty (30) days of employment.
Must attend the YMCA Coaching 101 Training within ninety (90) days of employment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts preferred.
A USCF rating of [e.g., 1000+] is a plus, but a passion for the game is most important.
Current CPR or First Aid certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide a fun, positive, and safe experience for all participants.
Demonstrate strong service and hospitality with all constituents, including program participants and parents/guardians.
Create an all-inclusive, highly motivational, and positive classroom atmosphere that encourages kids to build confidence in their Chess-playing abilities.
Teach progressive lessons and provide opportunities to demonstrate learned skills.
Monitor student progress and provide encouraging, constructive feedback to both students and their parents/guardians.
Embody the YMCA Core Values.
Work with the Supervisor to develop program objectives and goals for each program session.
Plan and execute age-appropriate and progressive Chess lessons covering fundamentals, tactical concepts, and advanced concepts for intermediate classes.
Provide supervision of participants in line with YMCA program standards and guidelines (i.e., ratio, attendance, etc.).
Modify lesson plans and instructions to meet the needs of the participants.
Communicate with parents/guardians regarding the progress of their child/teen and registration for the next session.
Communicate to parents/guardians about additional YMCA opportunities that can benefit them or their child/teen.
Create an environment that is encouraging to all participants regardless of skill level.
Inform the Manager on Duty (MOD) regarding any incident reports that need to be filled out.
Have a thorough knowledge of branch emergency procedures and take appropriate actions in emergency situations.
Actively participate in designated meetings, training sessions, and special events.
Work with the Supervisor to develop and lead program promotion and recruitment efforts.
Record accurate attendance for all classes.
Ensure the cleanliness of the program space during all activities.
Set up and break down chess boards, pieces, and clocks for each session.