Job Description

Company: Chess Wizard

Location: Bay Area, CA Metro Area and surrounding suburbs (Hybrid role: On-site & Remote)

Full-Time

Compensation: up to $50,000 - $60,000 per year (based on experience) + performance-based bonuses

About Us

Chess Wizards was founded in August 2002 by a group of enthusiastic individuals who decided to change the culture of chess in Chicago. Since then, we have expanded our scholastic and summer camp programs to schools, park districts, and community centers across the United States.

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated and organized Wizard Area Manager to oversee Chess Wizards programs within an assigned region. This role is responsible for supporting program operations, recruiting and developing instructors, ensuring program quality and safety, and building strong relationships with school partners. The Area Manager plays a key leadership role in delivering exceptional chess experiences for students while supporting the growth and success of the Chess Wizards team.

Key Responsibilities

• Share responsibility for the overall operations of Chess Wizards programs within an assigned region in partnership with the Regional Activities Director.
• Ensure the safety, well-being, and positive learning experience of all students in Chess Wizards programs.
• Recruit, hire, and onboard qualified instructors and on-site staff in alignment with school, state, and company requirements, including background checks and clearance standards.
• Coordinate staffing plans prior to each session based on enrollment projections, working closely with Partnership Managers, Human Resources, Finance, and other internal teams to meet hiring deadlines and program needs.
• Train, mentor, and provide ongoing professional development to instructors to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality, engaging classroom experiences.
• Develop and support Lead Instructors and Trainers, and help identify and cultivate future leaders as the program grows.
• Schedule and manage on-site staff to ensure alignment with company expectations, school partner needs, and the Chess Wizards mission.
• Conduct regular instructor observations and performance evaluations (at least once per session), providing structured feedback, coaching, and follow-up to support continuous improvement.
• Address performance concerns in accordance with company accountability policies and ensure follow-through on improvement plans.
• Ensure all program sites are visited regularly by regional leadership to monitor program quality and strengthen relationships with school administrators.
• Collaborate with school partners to maintain strong relationships and ensure a consistent, high-quality program presence.
• Organize at least one special event per school year, such as tournaments or enrichment activities, in coordination with the Regional Director.
• Support marketing and outreach initiatives to promote enrollment and program growth within assigned regions.
• Collaborate with National Senior Leadership on special projects, including curriculum development, training initiatives, marketing efforts, and customer relationship management.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 1+ year in a leadership role within an educational setting.
• Strong understanding of chess principles is required.
• Excellent ability to engage, motivate, and support instructors, students, and school partners.
• Ability to adjust to changing needs, manage multiple priorities, and resolve challenges effectively.
• Must have a reliable home office setup, including high-speed internet, computer, email, and video conferencing tools (e.g., Skype or equivalent).
• Must have reliable transportation and be able to travel within the metro and surrounding suburban areas (up to a 30-mile radius).
• Must be available Monday–Friday, with coverage from morning through afternoon for school visits and program support.
• Compliance: Must meet all applicable state requirements for educational workers prior to the start date.

Preferred Qualifications

• USCF rating or equivalent chess competitive experience.

Location Requirement: This position is based in Bay Area, CA. Please note that relocation assistance is not provided. Candidates must be currently residing in the area or willing to relocate at their own expense.

What We Offer

• Play a key role in shaping young minds and growing a passionate team of instructors.
• Competitive compensation based on experience: $50,000 - $60,000 per year, plus performance-based bonuses.
• Flexible hybrid work model: enjoy the balance of remote work and in-person engagement.
• Growth opportunities: be part of a company that values innovation and professional development.
• Full-time employees are eligible for health insurance coverage and paid time off (PTO), in accordance with company policy and eligibility guidelines.

How to Apply

Please submit your application, including a resume and cover letter.

Chess Wizards is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

For more information about our programs, please visit our website: http://www.chesswizards.com/