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About the Role

Reporting to the Area Manager/Regional Program Director, the CDL Program Director provides leadership for the CDL Program, serving as the subject matter expert in curriculum development, revision, and implementation. This role involves training Account management staff, engaging with potential and current students, and overseeing Driver Trainers. The CDL Program Director is responsible for hiring, developing, evaluating, and recognizing faculty, as well as monitoring and supporting the student population to ensure academic success and retention.

Responsibilities

• Services to Students
  • Supplement Driver Trainer advising for students receiving failing assessments.
  • Provide academic advising and referrals to outside resources when needed.
  • Arrange for student tutoring and lead retention initiatives for students facing barriers.
  • Maintain regular contact with students, respond to questions/concerns, and post office hours.
  • Monitor student attendance, contact students who miss classes, and maintain records of interactions.
  • Identify students needing tutoring and offer academic advice.
• Curriculum and Instructional Quality
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for academic curriculum and participate in development/revision processes.
  • Provide leadership in implementing new and revised curriculum.
  • Contribute to creating the master schedule, including course sequencing, room assignments, and teaching assignments.
• Faculty Performance and Development
  • Assist in recruiting, interviewing, hiring, orienting, and mentoring Driver Trainers.
  • Ensure adherence to administrative and classroom delivery duties as outlined in job descriptions.
  • Maintain faculty files, including transcripts, professional development, observations, and performance reviews.
  • Observe classes, coach Driver Trainers, and conduct performance appraisals.
  • Conduct regular faculty meetings and document discussions.
  • Provide product knowledge training to Account management and Career Services personnel.
  • Promote faculty participation in professional development activities.
  • Stay current with federal/state regulations and accreditation standards.
  • Assist in evaluating student questionnaire data and recommend improvements.
• Leadership and Development
  • Define roles and objectives for Driver Trainers, monitor performance, and provide feedback.
  • Resolve performance issues to foster teamwork and motivation.
  • Identify opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Perform all duties of a full-time Driver Trainer.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Industry certification in the field of instruction (if required) or demonstrated equivalent knowledge.
• 3 years of experience in academic instruction in a post-secondary environment.
• 5 years of industry experience in the field of instruction.
• 2 years of experience in a management or supervisory role.
• Ability to qualify as a CDL Driver/Driver Trainer.
• Knowledge of faculty development, including requirements, delivery methods, and reporting.
• Motivation, dedication, professionalism, integrity, and enthusiasm for teaching.
• Sensitivity to the needs of adult learners and alignment with the school’s mission.
• Ability to inspire students to meet employer expectations.
• Knowledge of industry standards and course content within the field of instruction.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database programs (CampusVue preferred).
• Strong interpersonal, creative problem-solving, and presentation skills.
• Management skills for planning, organizing, and evaluating programs in a dynamic environment.
• Knowledge of federal FMCSA and state Department of Motor Vehicle standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree or higher, or equivalent work experience in the field of instruction.
• 5 years of experience in academic instruction in a post-secondary environment.
• 10 years of experience in the field of instruction.
• Working knowledge of federal/state government education regulations.
• 3 years of experience in a management or supervisory role.
• Previous experience as an academic program director.
• Experience in student guidance or related fields.

Physical Demands

• Mobility & Balance: Ability to frequently climb in/out of the cab, bend, squat, kneel, twist, and reach for inspections and navigating tight spaces.
• Strength: Ability to crank trailer landing gear (often 100+ lbs), handle training/safety equipment, and assist with loading/unloading if applicable.
• Endurance: Ability to sustain physical activity and alertness during extended driving/instructional periods, including exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Sensory Acuity and Overall Health: Must possess and maintain a valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate and meet DOT physical qualifications for holding a CDL, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Specific Tasks: Physically demonstrate skills such as coupling/uncoupling trailers, performing inspections, and maneuvering large vehicles.
• Environmental Exposure: Work outdoors in conditions including extreme heat, cold, rain, or snow during training.

Work Environment

The work environment is typically indoors with moderate noise levels. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.