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Checkmate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Learn More LLC

Chess Instructor

Goleta, CA · On-site

$80/hr

Checkmate Chess Club is seeking Chess Instructors in the Goleta and Santa Barbara area for a 1-hour after-school chess program at various elementary schools. This role would be ideal for retired ...

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$29.6K

$67.4K

$128.3K

How much do checkmate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for checkmate in California is $67,379.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $76,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a checkmate?

Checkmates are situations in the game of chess where a player's king is under direct threat of capture (in check) and there is no legal move to escape the threat. When a checkmate occurs, the game ends immediately with a victory for the player delivering the checkmate. Achieving checkmate is the ultimate goal in chess, as it signifies that the opponent has no way to save their king. Checkmate patterns can vary from simple to complex, and learning common checkmates is essential for improving chess skills.

What are some common challenges faced by Checkmate operators during high-stakes chess tournaments?

Checkmate Operators, who support tournament logistics and ensure smooth gameplay, often face challenges such as managing time controls, handling disputes between players, and maintaining focus during long rounds. They must also adapt quickly to unexpected issues like equipment malfunctions or last-minute schedule changes. Strong attention to detail and the ability to communicate clearly with both players and officials are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Checkmate vs Chess Player?

AspectCheckmate
RoleChess Player

Checkmate is a specific move or position in chess where the king is trapped and cannot escape, ending the game. A chess player is an individual who plays the game, including making moves like checkmate. While checkmate is a game-ending tactic, a chess player actively participates in the game, employing strategies to reach checkmate. Both are integral to chess, but checkmate refers to a move, whereas a chess player is the person executing moves.

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For Checkmate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Checkmate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Checkmate jobs in California are:

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Cities in California with the most Checkmate job openings:

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Infographic showing various Checkmate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,379 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Chess Instructor

Learn More LLC

Goleta, CA • On-site

$80/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Checkmate Chess Club is seeking Chess Instructors in the Goleta and Santa Barbara area for a 1-hour after-school chess program at various elementary schools.


This role would be ideal for retired teachers in the community who miss teaching. The time commitment is as low as 1 hour per week but there is availability to work at multiple schools per week.


Job Responsibilities:

  • Teach classes of 8-16 students (grades 1-6) with support from a classroom aide.
  • Complete the roster checklist on your phone at the start of each class.
  • Teach a 15-20 minute chess lesson on a wall-mounted chessboard using provided lesson plans. Each lesson plan has a webpage that walks you through the chess moves and explains the notable moves and history. It can be used as a script or to supplement your own insights.
  • Help the students set up chess boards after the lesson and supervise their games. You can also play chess with the students.
  • Help students clean up pieces, escort them to pickup location, and wait with them until all students have been picked up.


Requirements:

  • Applicants must have prior relevant experience working with children in the 1st - 6th grade range (ie classroom teacher, classroom aide, camp counselor, sports coach, tutor, babysitter, parent, etc.) or progress toward a degree in Education.
  • Prior chess experience preferred but the provided lesson plans contain all the necessary information to teach a successful lesson.
  • Available to attend each class, once per week, typically 2:50-4pm. Multiple class times available Monday through Friday.
  • Teachers must have their own transportation to get to each school. We prioritize assigning schools in your local area for short commutes.
  • Teachers must get a Livescan background check for each school district (fees reimbursed by Checkmate Chess)
  • Teachers must commit to working a class for the full quarter (Fall: September - December, Winter: January - April, Spring: April - June)


Compensation:

  • Chess Instructors are paid $80 per class. Including setup and dismissal, class time is approximately 80 minutes. Payments are made weekly via direct deposit.

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