AT - Program Director - CDL

About the Role

Reporting to the Area Manager/Regional Program Director, the CDL Program Director provides leadership for the CDL Program, offering subject matter expertise in curriculum development, revision, and implementation. This role involves training Account management staff, engaging with potential students, and participating in new student orientation. The CDL Program Director oversees Driver Trainers, monitors student progress, and plays an active role in student advising and retention initiatives.

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 and respond to their questions or concerns.
  • Post office hours for students and refer them to appropriate staff for non-academic issues.
  • Contact students who miss classes or accumulate excessive absences.
  • Maintain records of interactions and correspondence with students.
  • Monitor and follow up with students who were unreachable or did not return as promised.
  • Identify students needing tutoring and offer academic advice.
• Curriculum and Instructional Oversight
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for academic curriculum.
  • Participate in curriculum development and revision led by the Home Office Executive team.
  • Lead the implementation of new and revised curriculum.
  • Provide input for creating the master schedule, including course sequencing and room assignments.
• Faculty Performance and Development
  • Assist in the recruitment, interviewing, and hiring of faculty.
  • Orient, monitor, supervise, mentor, and assist new Driver Trainers.
  • Ensure Driver Trainers adhere to administrative and classroom delivery duties.
  • Maintain faculty files, including documentation of transcripts, professional development, and performance reviews.
  • Observe classes and coach Driver Trainers to improve instructional and classroom management skills.
  • Conduct performance appraisals and provide feedback for improvement.
  • Conduct regular weekly faculty meetings to discuss course improvements and instructional methods.
  • Provide product knowledge training to Account management and Career Services personnel.
  • Promote faculty participation in professional development activities.
  • Maintain current knowledge of federal and state regulations and accreditation standards.
  • Assist in evaluating student questionnaire data and conduct faculty conferences as needed.
  • Collaborate with peers to coordinate interdepartmental activities.
  • Resolve personnel issues among program area Driver Trainers.
  • Perform all duties of a full-time Driver Trainer.
• Leadership and Development
  • Define roles and objectives for Driver Trainers, monitor performance, and provide feedback.
  • Resolve performance issues to motivate and foster teamwork.
  • Identify opportunities for professional growth and skill development.

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 ability to facilitate learning on course content.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database programs (CampusVue preferred).
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to meet defined goals and present ideas effectively.
• 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 documented specialized competency 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 pre/post-trip inspections and navigating tight spaces.
• Strength: Ability to crank trailer landing gear (often 100+ lbs), handle training and safety equipment, and assist with loading/unloading if applicable.
• Endurance: Ability to sustain physical activity and remain alert during extended driving and 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 required for a CDL, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Specific Tasks & Considerations:
  • Demonstrate skills such as coupling/uncoupling trailers, performing inspections, and maneuvering large vehicles.
  • Work outdoors in various conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, or snow.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is usually not exposed to weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is typically moderate. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.