Train of Thought is hiring dependable, energetic, and compassionate youth educators to serve elementary and middle school students throughout Los Angeles County. We have served more than 75,000 students across over 150 schools and communities.
We do more than teach students how to play chess. We use the game to help young people recognize their value, think critically, build character, exercise leadership, and make purposeful decisions in the classroom, at home, and throughout life. Competitive chess experience is valuable, but the ability to connect with, inspire, and develop young people is essential.
Because coaches travel to different school sites, this position requires regular access to a reliable personal vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and current automobile insurance. Candidates must be able to transport themselves and program materials to assigned locations consistently and on time.
CAREER PATHWAY & COMPENSATION
Train of Thought offers a structured pathway for coaches to grow in responsibility, skill, and compensation. Coaches may advance by completing required training, demonstrating chess and teaching proficiency, performing reliably, applying feedback, and consistently meeting Train of Thought’s instructional and professional standards:
• Teach beginner and intermediate chess lessons
• Lead engaging activities, puzzles, mini-games, and structured play
• Help students practice confidence, discipline, patience, perseverance, respect & leadership
• Create a safe, positive, and well-managed learning environment
• Encourage students to explain their thinking and learn from mistakes
• Follow Train of Thought curriculum and instructional methods
• Communicate professionally with school staff and the Train of Thought team
• Participate in training, observation, coaching, and feedback
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
• Genuinely enjoys working with children
• Is dependable, punctual, patient, and emotionally mature
• Can lead a group with warmth, confidence, and clear expectations
• Communicates respectfully with students and adults
• Is open to learning and applying feedback
• Has work experience teaching, coaching, mentoring, or tutoring young people
• Has foundational chess knowledge or a strong willingness to learn
• Has a reliable personal vehicle, valid driver’s license, and automobile insurance
• Is available during after-school hours, generally between 1pm and 6pm on weekdays
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
• Classroom, after-school, camp, tutoring, mentoring, or youth-development
• Experience teaching chess or playing competitively
• Experience serving culturally and economically diverse communities
• Familiarity with social-emotional learning or positive behavior support
REQUIREMENTS
• Successful interview and teaching demonstration
• Professional resume with references for relevant work experience
• Required background clearance and TB test
• Reliable personal vehicle, valid driver’s license, and automobile insurance
• Consistent availability and responsive communication
• Willingness to complete training and receive ongoing coaching
• Why you want to work with young people
• Your experience leading children
• Your current chess experience
• The communities and age groups you have served
• Your consistent weekly availability
Train of Thought is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, demonstrated ability, organizational needs, and successful completion of applicable screening requirements.
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.