Job Summary
The Assistant Chess Coach serves as the trusted second-in-command to the Head Chess Coach, acting as an extension of their leadership and ensuring the consistent delivery of the club's standards, values, and instructional methods. This position extends beyond traditional coaching support, requiring the ability to independently lead classes, oversee daily operations, mentor students, and assume responsibility for key aspects of the chess program when the Head Coach is unavailable or focused on other priorities.
The Assistant Chess Coach is expected to demonstrate initiative, sound judgment, and professionalism while maintaining a high standard of instruction and student engagement. As a representative of the Head Coach, this individual plays a vital role in fostering a positive learning environment, supporting operational excellence, and contributing to the continued growth and success of the club.
Job Requirements & Responsibilities
1. Classroom Preparation & Logistics
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start of each lesson to ensure the classroom is fully prepared.
- Set up the classroom, including chess boards, clocks, teaching materials, and any required equipment.
- Take and maintain accurate student attendance records.
- Assist with student check-in and ensure the class begins in an organized and timely manner.
- Assist with warm-up activities and exercises to prepare students for the lesson.
- Ensure the classroom remains clean, organized, and ready for instruction before, during, and after each session.
- Proactively identify and address logistical needs to support a smooth and efficient learning environment.
2. Classroom Support During Lessons
- Provide active support to the Head Coach throughout each lesson to ensure a productive and well-managed learning environment.
- Assist with classroom management by addressing behavioral issues promptly and professionally, including supervising students outside the classroom when necessary.
- Provide individualized instruction to students who require additional support, including brief one-on-one or small-group coaching to reinforce lesson concepts.
- Support students who may be falling behind by providing additional explanations, practice, and guidance.
- Supervise students during restroom breaks or when they need to temporarily leave the classroom, ensuring their safety and timely return.
- Help maintain student focus, engagement, and participation throughout the lesson.
- Anticipate the needs of the Head Coach and take initiative in resolving minor issues without disrupting instruction.
- Reinforce the lesson objectives and instructional methods established by the Head Coach.
3. Student Observation, Progress Tracking & Parent Communication
- Actively observe students during lessons, practice games, and tournament play to assess their development, engagement, learning habits, and overall progress.
- Monitor each student's strengths, areas for improvement, behavioral patterns, and any challenges that may affect their learning experience.
- Document and communicate observations to the Head Coach to support student evaluations, lesson planning, and individualized instruction.
- Assist in tracking student progress over time by providing accurate and consistent feedback based on classroom observations.
- Identify students who may require additional academic, behavioral, or instructional support and bring these concerns to the attention of the Head Coach.
- Participate in parent communication by providing professional updates regarding student progress, achievements, and areas of improvement.
- Support the Head Coach during parent conversations by sharing relevant observations and feedback when appropriate.
- Ensure all communication with parents reflects the club's standards and aligns with the Head Coach's guidance.
4. Events & Special Activities
- Participate in all club events, tournaments, camps, workshops, and special activities as assigned by the Head Coach.
- Attend mandatory workdays associated with monthly club events and special programs, including weekends or evenings when required.
- Assist with event setup, registration, logistics, supervision, and cleanup to ensure events are organized and run efficiently.
- Help coordinate activities, supervise students, and provide instructional support throughout each event.
- Represent the club professionally by maintaining a positive attitude, demonstrating leadership, and creating a welcoming environment for students, parents, and guests.
- Be flexible and willing to take on additional responsibilities as needed to support the successful execution of club events.
5. Weekly Meetings with the Head Coach
- Attend a scheduled weekly meeting with the Head Chess Coach to review lessons, student progress, and overall class performance.
- Discuss observations, challenges, and opportunities for improvement based on the week's instruction and student development.
- Collaborate with the Head Coach to identify adjustments to teaching methods, classroom management, and lesson delivery where needed.
- Share feedback, raise concerns, and contribute ideas to improve the quality and effectiveness of the club's programs.
- Review upcoming lessons, events, and priorities to ensure alignment and consistency in coaching and program delivery.
- Come prepared with relevant observations, notes, and updates to support productive discussions and informed decision-making.
Qualifications
- Strong understanding of chess principles, tactics, strategy, and tournament play.
- Previous coaching, teaching, or competitive playing experience preferred.
- Demonstrated leadership, maturity, and sound judgment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Self-motivated, dependable, organized, and able to work independently.
- Passion for mentoring students and helping them reach their full potential.
- Ability to take initiative, solve problems, and act as a trusted representative of the Head Coach and the club.
Pay: Up to $20.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
