About the Mechanics' Institute
The Mechanics' Institute (Institute), was founded in 1854 and is one of San Francisco's enduring arts and culture institutions, described by the San Francisco Chronicle as a "vibrant cultural oasis." Located in a historic building in downtown San Francisco, the Institute offers a vibrant full-service library, a world-renowned chess club providing expert instruction and opportunities for competition for youth and adults, and a robust calendar of cultural events, programs, and classes. The Institute engages local, national, and international audiences with our in-person and virtual programs and services.
Current Openings:
Scholastic Chess Program Coordinator | Advancement Coordinator | Chess Coach | Lead Chess Coach | Chess Tournament Director or Lead Chess Tournament Director |
Scholastic Chess Program Coordinator
The Scholastic Chess Program Coordinator works to advance the goals and activities of Mechanics’ Institute through onsite and online support of the robust chess program offerings. The Scholastic Chess Program Coordinator is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the oldest continuously running chess club in the United States, including greeting and providing information to visitors, ensuring a safe and accessible environment, administering classes and tournaments, tracking and evaluating program offerings, and contributing to the Programs Team efforts across the institution. Read the full description.
Advancement Coordinator
The Mechanics’ Institute is seeking an Advancement Coordinator to oversee revenue-generating activities and donor-facing functions. The scope of the position includes fundraising, donor cultivation and relations, grant application and management, marketing, and outreach. The successful candidate will have opportunities to develop strategies and create revenue-generating activities. Assist in planning, organizing, and supervising fund development activities, marketing and outreach functions under general direction of Sr. Director of Advancement. Read the full description.
Chess Coach
Reporting to the Chess Program Manager, the Chess Coach will teach regular classes and assist Lead Chess Coaches for large classes for scholastic chess programs. Scholastic chess includes classes held at Mechanics' Institute, on school campuses during or after school hours, online classes, seasonal camps, and weekend classes. Qualified candidates should have a foundational knowledge of chess and be familiar or be willing to be trained in chess instructional techniques. Candidates should also have a basic foundation in classroom management and conflict resolution strategies, particularly working with children. The Chess Coach will be part of the Mechanics’ Institute team, working on building a culture of unity and quality that reflects outward to the community. Read the full description.
Lead Chess Coach
Reporting to the Chess Program Manager, the Lead Chess Coach will provide regular instruction and leadership in our in-person scholastic chess programs. Scholastic chess includes classes held at Mechanics' Institute, on school campuses during or after school hours, online classes, seasonal camps, and weekend classes. Qualified candidates should have a foundational knowledge of chess and be familiar or be willing to be trained in chess instructional techniques. Candidates should also have a solid foundation in classroom management and conflict resolution strategies, particularly working with children, as well as experience in supporting and training other instructors. The Lead Chess Coach will be part of the Mechanics' Institute team, working on building a culture of unity and quality that reflects outward to the community.Read the full description.
Chess Tournament Director or Lead Chess Tournament Director
The Chess Tournament Director (TD) or Lead Chess Tournament Director (Lead TD) provides onsite tournament directing for in-person events at the Mechanics' Institute. There may also be opportunities to direct tournaments virtually and at other venues, depending on Institute approval. The TD and Lead TD may also participate in arranging matches, tracking scores, and assisting with player sign-ups for events. The TD must have a current certification from US Chess and be eligible to direct tournaments, and the Lead TD must also be FIDE-certified. Read the full description.
All positions have the following:
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Requires the ability to walk, stand, carry materials, stoop, kneel, bend at the waist, reach overhead, and climb stairs.
- May require sitting and/or standing for long periods of time.
- May be required to lift up to 25 pounds on a regular basis.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
- Onsite work is performed within a standard office environment and/or chess room.
- Will be required to operate basic office equipment including but not limited to computer, printers, telephone, etc.
- The noise level in the work environment is usually at low to moderate.
The Mechanics' Institute is committed to building an equitable and inclusive workplace and seeks talented staff from diverse backgrounds. The Institute does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex (including the actual gender or perception of sex identity, appearance or behavior), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics legally protected by federal, state, or local laws and regulations.