Job Description
Speech & Debate Instructor (Coach) Location: Irvine, CA Job Type: Part-time Pay: $21.00- $25.00 per hour Expected Hours: 1–15 hours/week (may vary by assignment) Schedule: Monday - Fridays, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (may vary) Work Setting: In-person / Hybrid (based on placement) Start Date: June 2026 Duration : June - August 2026 (with potential for long-term continuation) About Cogito Debate (Cogito International Inc.) Cogito Debate has served over 3,000 students since 2016 through partnerships with public school districts, charter schools, private schools, homeschool programs, and our main campus in Irvine, CA. As a WASC-accredited academic enrichment program that has been around since 2016, Cogito focuses on developing communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills through structured speech and debate training. We are currently expanding our programs and inviting passionate educators to join our coaching team. Position Overview Cogito Debate is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Speech & Debate Instructor to guide students in developing strong public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking skills. In this role, you will coach students through structured curriculum, competition preparation, and tournament participation while fostering confidence, discipline, and intellectual growth. Key Responsibilities Lead engaging Speech & Debate classes for either elementary, middle and/or high school students Prepare students for tournaments and competitive events Provide individualized, constructive feedback to improve speaking and reasoning skills Teach core debate formats and speech events, including: Parliamentary Debate (MS & HS) , Lincoln-Douglas, Public Forum, Mock Trial, SPAR Debate, and/or Speech events (as applicable) Track student progress and communicate updates with parents and administration Maintain professionalism in all student, parent, and staff interactions Follow assigned schedules and communicate availability or conflicts promptly Participate in occasional training sessions, workshops, or promotional events Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required (Communication, English, Education, or related field preferred); Master’s degree welcomed Strong background in Speech & Debate (competitive experience and/or coaching experience required) Familiarity with major debate formats and rules (LD, Mock Trial, PF, Parli, SPAR, etc.) Excellent verbal and written communication skills Strong teaching, mentoring, and leadership abilities Ability to analyze arguments and teach critical thinking strategies Highly organized with the ability to manage class structure and competition schedules Commitment to ethical coaching, sportsmanship, and student development Additional Details Coaches should be available for at least 2–3 classes per week depending on assignment Class schedules are provided in coordination with Cogito Administration How to Apply Interested candidates should send their resume to: info@cogitodebate.com or enroll@cogitodebate.com Pay: $21.00 - $25.00 per hour Education Bachelor's (Required) Experience: Public Speaking or Debate: 1 year (Preferred) Location: Irvine, CA 92618 (Preferred) Work Location: In person