After-School Chess Coach (Spring)

Part Time After-School Chess Coach (Winter/Spring)
Checkmate Academy
Location: Petaluma
$50-$70/hour

Checkmate Academy is looking for enthusiastic after-school chess coaches to teach beginner-level chess to elementary and middle school students in the Bay Area. We especially welcome college students who enjoy teaching, mentoring, and sharing their passion for chess, but anyone committed to working with children and chess is encouraged to apply.

As a coach, you will help students develop critical thinking, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills in a fun and supportive environment. Classes are held once a week for one hour each. Coaches should be available for a minimum of two school semesters.

Who We’re Looking For:

• Good understanding of chess basics (ELO of 1000 or higher preferred, but not required)
• Passion for teaching and inspiring students through chess
• Strong communication and classroom management abilities
• Ability to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment
• Reliable transportation to schools in Petaluma
• Experience working with children in groups (coaching, tutoring, mentoring, or teaching is a plus)

After-School coach Responsibilities:

• Lead engaging, structured chess lessons using the Checkmate Academy curriculum
• Foster a positive classroom where students of all abilities feel supported
• Maintain classroom order and ensure a welcoming learning environment
• Provide guidance to students individually when needed
• Represent Checkmate Academy positively while building relationships with schools and parents

About Us

Checkmate Academy helps thousands of students from elementary through middle school build strategic thinking through chess. We operate after-school programs in 100+ schools across California and Massachusetts, including our MarinChess branch - the largest after-school chess provider in the Northern Bay Area. Our mission is to make chess accessible to all students while equipping them with valuable life skills like critical thinking, decision-making, and resilience. We believe in fostering a fun, inclusive learning environment that helps students grow both on and off the board.

If you are interested please feel free to email me at stanley@checkmateacademy.org.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $50.00 - $70.00 per hour

Expected hours: 1 – 3 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Application Question(s):

• What is your chess rating (online, FIDE, or USCF)?
• Do you have experience working in a classroom environment?

Ability to Commute:

• Petaluma, CA 94975 (Required)

Work Location: In person