Chess Instructor

The Local Investment Commission (LINC); Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 21,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

The Local Investment Commission (LINC) seeks a passionate Chess Instructor to design engaging lessons for students of all ages, from beginners to advanced players.

You will deliver structured curricula, lead in-person and virtual sessions, organize friendly tournaments, and assess progress to adapt instruction accordingly.

The role emphasizes clear communication, patience, and the ability to foster critical thinking and a love of chess.

Qualifications

• Must have proven chess playing ability at intermediate/advanced level or higher.
• Experience teaching or coaching chess to youth or adults in educational or recreational settings.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to explain concepts clearly.
• Ability to create structured lesson plans and adapt teaching methods for diverse learners.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver structured chess curricula for different ages and skill levels.
• Conduct individual and group lessons in-person and virtually.
• Organize chess tournaments, practice sessions, and workshops.
• Assess student progress and provide constructive feedback.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of chess theory and teaching methods.

Skills

Chess playing (intermediate/advanced)

Teaching chess

Communication

Lesson planning

Legal to work in US

Job description

As a Chess Instructor, you will play a pivotal role in fostering strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for chess among students of varying ages and skill levels. Your primary objective will be to design and deliver engaging, comprehensive chess lessons that cater to beginners through advanced players, ensuring each student progresses in their understanding and application of the game. You will create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that encourages critical thinking, sportsmanship, and intellectual growth. Additionally, you will assess student performance regularly and adapt teaching methods to meet individual learning needs. Ultimately, your work will contribute to the development of confident, skilled chess players who appreciate the game's complexity and enjoy continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Proven experience playing chess at an intermediate or advanced level, demonstrated through tournament participation or recognized rankings.
• Prior experience teaching or coaching chess to children or adults in an educational or recreational setting.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly and patiently.
• Ability to create lesson plans and adapt teaching strategies to diverse learning styles.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification from a recognized chess organization such as the United States Chess Federation (USCF) or equivalent.
• Experience using digital chess platforms and educational software to facilitate learning.
• Background in education, coaching, or a related field.
• Experience organizing chess clubs or community programs.
• Familiarity with child development principles and age-appropriate instructional techniques.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement structured chess curricula tailored to different age groups and skill levels.
• Conduct individual and group lessons, both in-person and virtually, to teach chess fundamentals, tactics, strategies, and advanced concepts.
• Organize and oversee chess tournaments, practice sessions, and workshops to provide practical experience and foster competitive spirit.
• Evaluate student progress through assessments and provide constructive feedback to support their growth.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of chess theory, teaching methodologies, and educational tools to enhance lesson quality.

Skills:

The required skills enable the instructor to communicate complex chess strategies effectively and adapt lessons to meet individual student needs, ensuring engagement and comprehension. Strong interpersonal skills foster a positive learning environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions and challenge themselves. Analytical skills are essential for assessing student progress and tailoring instruction accordingly. Preferred skills, such as proficiency with digital chess tools, enhance lesson delivery and provide interactive learning experiences. Additionally, organizational skills support the planning and execution of tournaments and extracurricular activities that enrich the overall educational experience.