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Chess Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Lead Teacher Trainer position at Chess Wizards plays a key role in aligning our instructors' performance with our customers' expectations, serving as a vital stepping stone toward future ...

The Lead Teacher Trainer position at Chess Wizards plays a key role in aligning our instructors' performance with our customers' expectations, serving as a vital stepping stone toward future ...

The Lead Teacher Trainer position at Chess Wizards plays a key role in aligning our instructors' performance with our customers' expectations, serving as a vital stepping stone toward future ...

IHSA Chess Bargaining Unit: NAC Department/Location: High School Activities Calendar Days: Per IHSA Calendar Reports To: Building Athletics/Activities Director JD Revision Date: 12/11/2023 Supervises:

IHSA Chess Bargaining Unit: NAC Department/Location: High School Activities Calendar Days: Per IHSA Calendar Reports To: Building Athletics/Activities Director JD Revision Date: 12/11/2023 Supervises:

Chess Team Reports to: Director of Athletics and Activities; Activities Facilitator; Building Principal or Designee Stipend: As set forth in Article VIII.D ("Stipends") of the Proviso Teachers Union ...

New

Chess Team Reports to: Director of Athletics and Activities; Activities Facilitator; Building Principal or Designee Stipend: As set forth in Article VIII.D ("Stipends") of the Proviso Teachers Union ...

New

Chess Team Reports to: Director of Athletics and Activities; Activities Facilitator; Building Principal or Designee Stipend: As set forth in Article VIII.D ("Stipends") of the Proviso Teachers Union ...

Chess Team Reports to: Director of Athletics and Activities; Activities Facilitator; Building Principal or Designee Stipend: As set forth in Article VIII.D ("Stipends") of the Proviso Teachers Union ...

Showing results 21-40

Chess Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21

$63

$74

How much do chess instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for chess instructor in Chicago, IL is $63.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57.93 and $69.81 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 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 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 specialized coaching. Many also supplement income by offering group classes or online instruction.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chess Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Chess Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Chess Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Chess Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Chess Instructor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Chess Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Chess Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,273 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Lead Teacher Trainer I Fall

Chess Wizards

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$65 - $85/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Area: Libertyville, IL.

Location Disclaimer: Chess Wizards offers programs throughout Chicago metropolitan area, with opportunities for classes that may also be available in surrounding cities and suburbs.

Do you love Chess? Do you love teaching and training others? Do you have the ability to impart good sportsmanship to youngsters? Then you have found the perfect job...

The Lead Teacher Trainer position at Chess Wizards plays a key role in aligning our instructors' performance with our customers' expectations, serving as a vital stepping stone toward future management opportunities.

In addition to fulfilling the responsibilities of our top instructors, the Lead Teacher Trainer takes on the added challenge of assisting in the training, development, and coaching of other instructors.

So, if you're looking for a unique opportunity and think you can be a charming Chess Instructor, then apply with Chess Wizards... and get paid to teach chess!

Why Join Us?

  • Competitive Pay: $65 - $85 per class (Typical class time is approximately one hour and thirty minutes which includes pre-class setup, instructional time, and post-class responsibilities)
  • Travel Compensation: Mileage reimbursement provided for trips over 15 miles one way (30 miles roundtrip), from your home or work location. Work locations are assigned by the manager based on available schools and classes in your area.
Lead Teacher Trainer Essentials:
  • A Lead Teacher Trainer must be able to reach most or all of our classes in the metropolitan areas - reliable transportation is essential.
  • Lead fun, interactive chess classes for 10-15 energetic elementary students. Instructors should be comfortable guiding activities, keeping students engaged, and redirecting behavior when needed
  • Minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with groups of children (teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar)
  • Lead Teacher Trainers are expected to set the example of what the best Chess Wizards experience should be for our 4 customer groups: Kids, Parents, School Administration, and Fellow Colleagues, in full alignment with the Chess Wizards Mission Statement.
  • Must be available during the after school hours at least 4 days per week. Our preference is availability 5 days a week, for our peak program weeks during the fall, winter and spring sessions (semesters). We will ensure that you have a full Monday-Friday after school schedule during our peak program weeks, provided that we have classes scheduled for that day. Actual class start time will vary, depending on the assignment. Most of our classes begin directly after each school's afternoon dismissal bell, which are usually between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Our standard program time is one hour. Teachers must arrive 15 minutes prior to the program start time to set up and prepare, and stay until all students have been safely dismissed to an authorized adult. Our Lead Teacher Trainers are paid per-class (Typical class time is approximately one hour and thirty minutes which includes pre-class setup, instructional time, and post-class responsibilities). Official class times that are longer than one hour pay more, appropriate to the extra time added.
  • Lead Teacher Trainers are our first scheduling choice for day camp opportunities during the winter, spring, and summer breaks!
  • Strong grasp of chess fundamentals. You should be able to clearly and confidently explain piece movement, basic strategy, and simple tactics in an age-appropriate way.
  • Assist their local Area Manager in ensuring that all our programs and instructors are visited by management for coaching, customer conversations, and quality control.
  • Assist with the training, coaching, and performance evaluation of our instructors.
  • Help troubleshoot and resolve program challenges.
  • Complete class evaluation reports and discuss with their supervisor.
  • Communicate daily during programming season with their supervisor.
  • Speak regularly with school administration and parents during site visits, gather feedback, and assist with customer service and marketing efforts.
  • Maintain standard professional communication best-practices
  • Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students

Application Requirements

  • Resume: Include a resume detailing your relevant experience, including working with children in educational, recreational, or mentoring settings, as well as any teaching, tutoring, or classroom experience.
  • Questionnaire: As part of your application, you will be asked to complete a required questionnaire related to your interest in the role, your experience working with children, and your qualifications to teach chess, among other topics

Chess Wizards Lead Teacher Trainers receive full training and ongoing support, with access to a complete curriculum and materials. Enjoy free chess classes, opportunities for career advancement, flexible work schedules, and a fantastic company culture!

Location Requirement: This position is based in Libertyville, IL. Please note that relocation assistance is not provided. Candidates must be currently residing in the area or be willing to relocate at their own expense.

Chess Wizards is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Employment Type: PART_TIME