1

Chess Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Chess Instructor

Herndon, VA · On-site

$55/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Chess Instructor

Columbia, MD · On-site

$55/hr

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Chess Master information

See salary details

$20

$61

$72

How much do chess master jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for chess master in the United States is $61.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56.25 and $67.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chess master?

Chess Masters are highly skilled chess players who have achieved a recognized title by reaching a certain level of expertise and performance in chess tournaments. The term is often associated with titles awarded by FIDE, the international chess federation, such as 'FIDE Master' (FM), 'International Master' (IM), and 'Grandmaster' (GM). Achieving a Chess Master title typically requires a combination of high tournament performance ratings and meeting specific norms in official competitions. These titles are lifelong recognitions of a player's skill and accomplishments in the game. Becoming a Chess Master is a significant milestone for competitive chess players.

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

To thrive as a Chess Master, you need an advanced understanding of chess theory, strong analytical skills, and significant competitive experience, often demonstrated by achieving official chess ratings and titles from organizations like FIDE. Mastery of chess databases, analysis software (such as ChessBase), and online platforms for practice and study is essential. Exceptional concentration, resilience, and strategic thinking set standout players apart in high-pressure matches. These skills and qualities are crucial for consistently performing at the highest levels, outmaneuvering opponents, and adapting to evolving strategies in competitive play.

What are some common challenges faced by chess masters when preparing for high-level tournaments?

Chess Masters often face the challenge of staying ahead of rapidly evolving opening theory while preparing for high-level tournaments. They must invest significant time in analyzing their opponents' previous games, studying new strategies, and refining their own repertoire. Balancing intensive preparation with maintaining mental and physical well-being is crucial, as the pressure and expectations at this level can be intense. Collaboration with coaches and seconds is common, allowing Chess Masters to simulate possible game scenarios and receive fresh insights.

What is the difference between Chess Master vs Chess Coach?

AspectChess MasterChess Coach
CredentialsHigh-level tournament titles, national/international rankingsChess coaching certifications, teaching experience
Work EnvironmentCompetitive tournaments, personal trainingOne-on-one or group coaching sessions, online or in-person
Industry UsageCompetitive chess circuits, media appearancesChess academies, schools, online platforms

Chess Masters are elite players competing in tournaments, while Chess Coaches focus on teaching and improving others' skills. Both roles require deep knowledge of chess, but their primary activities differ: playing versus teaching.

How do you become a chess master?

To become a chess master, a player must achieve a high level of skill through consistent practice, study of chess strategies, and participation in competitive tournaments. Earning titles such as FIDE Master or International Master involves meeting specific performance and rating requirements set by chess governing bodies. Developing strong analytical skills and understanding opening, middle, and endgame principles are essential for progression.
More about Chess Master jobs

What job categories do people searching Chess Master jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Chess Master jobs are:

Infographic showing various Chess Master job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,432 per year, or $61.3 per hour.

Regional Support Chess Instructor

Yes For Chess

San Jose, CA

$30 - $34/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Regional Support Chess Instructor

Location: San Jose and South Bay, CA

Pay: $30 to $34 per hour

Job Type: Part-Time | In Person

Join Our Leadership Team

We're looking for a dependable Regional Support Chess Instructor to support our growing after-school programs throughout the South Bay.

This role is designed for instructors who enjoy taking on additional responsibility and are interested in growing with Yes For Chess over time. Rather than being assigned to just one or two schools, Regional Support Instructors help support multiple South Bay programs, assist with launching new school locations, provide classroom coverage when needed, and help ensure students receive a consistent, high-quality experience across our programs.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, thrives in different classroom environments, is comfortable traveling throughout the South Bay, and wants to play an important role in a growing organization. Higher hourly rate is offered in recognition of the flexibility, reliability, and travel this role requires.

What You'll Do

Teach engaging after-school chess classes

Support multiple South Bay school locations throughout the week

Provide classroom coverage when needed

Help launch new school programs.

Build positive relationships with students, schools and families

Communicate professionally with the office team

Deliver a fun, consistent classroom experience

What Makes This Position Different?

Regional Support Instructors play an important role in helping our South Bay programs succeed. Because of the flexibility and reliability this role requires, they are often the first considered for expanded opportunities as the company grows, including additional teaching hours, online coaching, tournaments, curriculum projects, mentoring new instructors, and future operational responsibilities.

What We're Looking For

Basic chess knowledge is required-you don't need to be a chess master.

We're looking for someone who:

Is confident with the basic rules and fundamentals of chess and enjoys teaching beginners.

Can comfortably teach elementary students who are learning the game.

Is reliable, organized, and communicates well.

Is friendly, patient, and energetic.

Is comfortable leading an elementary classroom independently.

Is willing to travel throughout the South Bay.

Wants to grow with the company.

Enjoys making a positive impact on children.

Experience teaching, tutoring, coaching, leading camps, working in childcare, or supporting youth programs is a strong plus.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

What We Offer

$30 to $34 /hour teaching rate

Guaranteed teaching schedule of at least four weekday afternoons per week (approx. 6-9 teaching hours).

Mileage reimbursement for qualifying travel is available

Ongoing coaching and support

Structured curriculum

Supportive team environment

The Ideal Candidate

This position is perfect for someone who enjoys working in different schools, adapts quickly to new environments, and likes having a variety of teaching assignments.

If you're dependable, enjoy working with children, and are looking for a flexible, higher-paying part-time role, we'd love to hear from you.

Teaching Region

Primary teaching assignments: San Jose, South San Jose, Santa Clara, Milpitas, and Sunnyvale

This position requires reliable transportation and regular travel between schools throughout the South Bay. A personal vehicle is strongly preferred.

Schedule

Guaranteed minimum of 4 afternoons per week (approximately 7-9 hours per week).

Monday-Friday afternoons

Classes generally begin between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM

Most teaching assignments last approximately 90 minutes

Training begins in August

Teaching begins in September

Additional teaching opportunities may become available as our programs grow.

About Yes For Chess

Yes For Chess is one of the Bay Area's longest-running after-school chess programs. For over 18 years, we have introduced thousands of elementary students to chess through fun, engaging, and educational after-school classes.

Our goal isn't to create chess masters-we help students build confidence, critical thinking skills, and a love for learning through chess. We're proud of our supportive team culture and invest heavily in training, coaching, and helping our instructors succeed.

Employment Type: PART_TIME