ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chess Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Bethesda, 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 ...

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Frederick, 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 ...

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Rockville, MD

$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 ...

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Fairfax, 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 ...

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Huntingtown, 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 ...

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Alexandria, VA

$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 ...

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Washington, DC · 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 ...

Magnus Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Chantilly, 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 ...

Silver Knights Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Warrenton, 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 ...

Apply Early

Silver Knights Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Chantilly, 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 ...

Apply Early

Silver Knights Chess Academy

Chess Instructor

Bethesda, 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 ...

Apply Early

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsChess Master Jobs

Chess Master information

See salary details

$20

$61

$72

How much do chess master jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 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.

How much do chess masters get paid?

Chess masters' earnings vary widely based on their level of experience, tournament success, and sponsorships. Top-ranked players can earn hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars annually through prize money, endorsements, and coaching, while many earn less from tournament winnings and appearances. Income often depends on performance, reputation, and participation in high-profile events.

What are Chess Masters?

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 is Magnus Carlsen's salary?

Magnus Carlsen, a professional chess player and grandmaster, earns income through tournament winnings, sponsorships, and endorsements. His annual earnings can vary widely but have been reported to reach several million dollars during peak years. As a chess master, income depends on performance, reputation, and marketability in the competitive chess scene.

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 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 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.

Can you make money as a chess master?

A chess master can earn income through tournament prizes, coaching, streaming, and content creation. Success depends on skill level, reputation, and opportunities in competitive play or teaching, with top players earning significant prize money and sponsorships.

Do chess grandmasters have other jobs?

Chess grandmasters often pursue other careers alongside their chess activities, such as coaching, writing, or commentary, due to the variability in earning potential from tournament prizes alone. Many also work in related fields or have sponsorships, but some focus solely on competitive play if they achieve high rankings and sponsorship support.
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:
Chess Master jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chess Master job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,432 per year, or $61.3 per hour.
Chess Instructor

Chess Instructor

Magnus Chess Academy

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$55/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 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.

Apply