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Chess Instructor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Chess Instructor

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$55/hr

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Chess Instructor

Vienna, VA · On-site

$55/hr

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Chess Instructor

Vienna, VA · On-site

$55/hr

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Apply Early

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Apply Early

Chess Instructor

Herndon, VA · On-site

$55/hr

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Apply Early

Chess Instructor

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$55/hr

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Apply Early

Chess Instructor Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in ...

Apply Early

Chess Instructor | Fall

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors to join our after-school enrichment program! If you can make learning fun, create a positive classroom environment, and share the magic of ...

Chess Instructor | Fall

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors to join our after-school enrichment program! If you can make learning fun, create a positive classroom environment, and share the magic of ...

Apply Early

Chess Instructor | Fall

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors to join our after-school enrichment program! If you can make learning fun, create a positive classroom environment, and share the magic of ...

Chess Instructor | Fall

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors to join our after-school enrichment program! If you can make learning fun, create a positive classroom environment, and share the magic of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Chess Instructor information

See Virginia salary details

$20

$60

$71

How much do chess instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for chess instructor in Virginia is $60.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55.77 and $67.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Chess Instructor Do?

A chess instructor monitors and advises a chess team or individual student. You can coach students at any level, helping them to learn rules and pieces, improve their chess strategy, and prepare for national games. You provide demonstrations of basic and complex movements, explain how to set up and care for a chess set properly, and encourage positive sportsmanship. You also oversee all activities in a match or competition. You establish team goals, assist with preparation, and develop opportunities for all interested parties. A chess instructor also handles the administrative duties, including managing the budget, planning events, maintaining equipment, and tracking participation. If you work at a public school, you may also serve as a teacher.

How much do chess coaches charge per hour?

Chess instructors typically charge between $20 and $100 per hour, depending on their experience, certifications, and location. Rates may be higher for advanced coaching or specialized training, and some coaches offer discounts for group lessons or packages.

How does a Chess Instructor typically structure lessons to accommodate students with varying skill levels?

Chess Instructors often tailor their lesson plans to address the diverse needs of their students, whether working one-on-one or with a group. Beginners may focus on basic rules, piece movement, and foundational strategies, while more advanced students receive instruction on tactics, openings, endgames, and analysis of famous games. Instructors commonly use a mix of demonstrations, practice games, puzzles, and personalized feedback to ensure each student is both challenged and supported. This adaptive approach helps all learners progress at their own pace while keeping the lessons engaging and effective.

What does a Chess Instructor do?

A Chess Instructor teaches individuals or groups how to play and improve at chess. They provide lessons on chess fundamentals, strategies, tactics, and advanced concepts, often adapting their teaching to the student's skill level. Chess Instructors may work with beginners or advanced players and help prepare students for competitions or tournaments. Their role includes analyzing games, offering feedback, and fostering a love for the game. They may teach in schools, clubs, online, or in private settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chess Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chess Instructor, you need a deep understanding of chess theory, strategy, and tactics, often demonstrated by competitive playing experience or chess federation ratings. Familiarity with chess software like ChessBase, online platforms such as Lichess or Chess.com, and teaching certifications (e.g., US Chess Federation or FIDE titles) are commonly expected. Strong communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors effectively teach diverse learners and foster a positive learning environment. These abilities are crucial for helping students develop their chess skills, maintain engagement, and achieve their learning goals.

What is the difference between Chess Instructor vs Chess Coach?

AspectChess InstructorChess Coach
CredentialsTypically requires chess knowledge, teaching skills, and sometimes certificationsOften requires advanced chess expertise, coaching certifications, and experience
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, online platforms, chess clubsPrivate lessons, tournaments, training camps, online coaching
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, youth programs, chess academiesIndividual players, competitive teams, professional training centers
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking to teach chess to beginners or studentsPlayers seeking personalized training to improve skills

While both Chess Instructors and Chess Coaches work to improve players' skills, Chess Instructors typically focus on teaching beginners or groups in educational settings, whereas Chess Coaches often work with more advanced players or competitive athletes, providing personalized training to enhance performance.

How to become a chess teacher?

To become a chess instructor, one typically needs a strong understanding of chess strategies and tactics, often demonstrated by a high chess rating or titles such as FIDE Master or Candidate Master. Certification is not always required but can enhance credibility, and good communication skills are essential for teaching students of various ages and skill levels. Gaining experience through coaching or volunteering can also help establish a career as a chess instructor.

Can you make a living teaching chess?

A chess instructor can make a living by teaching private lessons, working at chess clubs, schools, or online platforms. Income varies based on experience, location, and the number of students, with many instructors supplementing income through tournaments or content creation.

How much money do chess instructors make?

Chess instructors typically earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for an organization. Salaries can vary widely, with some instructors earning more through private lessons or coaching advanced players.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chess Instructor jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Chess Instructor jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Chess Instructor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Chess Instructor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Chess Instructor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Chess Instructor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Chess Instructor jobs in VA? For Chess Instructor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Chess Instructor job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $126,339 per year, or $60.7 per hour.

$55/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Chess Instructor
Silver Knights Chess Academy is looking for people who want to make a positive difference in the lives of elementary school children. We have taught chess to over 120,000 children in our 19-year history. Come teach with us!
Pay: Starting at $55 / hour long meeting
Please note the total time commitment is longer due to setup and cleanup.
You will be a great fit if you:
  • Play chess! You don't have to be a master-level player, but you do need interest and enthusiasm.
  • Want to work with children in a small group teaching setting (ages 5-11).
  • Are available to work part-time during "after-school" hours (fall/winter/spring)
  • Have experience as a camp counselor, tutor, teacher, coach, after school instructor, or preschool teacher
  • Are comfortable driving and have a flexible schedule with availability during after school programs, for example, an Uber or Lyft driver, a student, or a retired person looking for a part-time job.

You will receive thorough, paid training on how to help children learn chess in a small group teaching setting.
Here's a sample schedule of how your day might look:
  • 2:45pm - Arrive at school, check in, set up
  • 3:00pm - Kids arrive, you teach lesson
  • 3:20pm - Kids play practice games
  • 4:00pm - Clean up, parent pickup

Qualifications:
  • Knowledgeable in the rules and basic strategy of chess, or willing to learn
  • Experience or interest in working with elementary-age children, for instance as a small group tutor. Experience in a classroom setting is a plus!
  • Have a reliable vehicle for transportation
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs of teaching equipment
  • Ability to learn and use new software tools

Responsibilities:
  • Manage a classroom of 10-20 students
  • Use our curriculum to demonstrate and effectively communicate all of the basic rules (piece movement, how to castle, check, checkmate, etc) and strategy
  • Promote good sportsmanship among students
  • Responsibly store and maintain all teaching equipment and materials

Guaranteed response within 72 hours of applying.
As a chess instructor, you are eligible for some cool perks, including a free Diamond-level chess.com membership for yourself, staff parties, and more!
SKC is an EEO employer and is a safe and drug-free workplace.