CDL Trainer

Job Description

The CDL Trainer provides classroom and behind‑the‑wheel instruction to prepare individuals for their written and practical Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) examinations. This role ensures students develop the skills, knowledge, and safety practices required for commercial vehicle operation while adhering to federal and state regulations. Trainers maintain training materials, assess student progress, and support program improvements. The position also administers CDL skills tests and may require travel between training locations.

Essential Functions

• CDL Instruction & Training: Deliver comprehensive classroom and behind‑the‑wheel instruction to prepare students for obtaining their CDL or other endorsements, covering vehicle operation, pre‑trip inspections, shifting techniques, coupling/uncoupling procedures, and defensive driving strategies.
• Regulatory Compliance & Safety Standards: Teach and reinforce state and federal regulations, including FMCSA guidelines, hours of service (HOS), hazardous materials (HAZMAT) handling, and proper load securement.
• Student Evaluation & Assessment: Conduct skills assessments, written exams, and practical road tests; provide timely feedback and maintain accurate records of performance, attendance, and certification readiness.
• Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance: Perform pre‑ and post‑trip inspections on training vehicles, ensuring operational safety, DOT compliance, and proper maintenance of equipment.
• Safety & Risk Management: Enforce safety protocols, conduct risk assessments, and maintain a safe learning environment in accordance with site regulations.
• Instructional Excellence & Curriculum Enhancement: Integrate real‑world scenarios, simulation training, and updated industry methodologies; continuously improve course content and delivery.
• Record‑keeping & Compliance Documentation: Accurately complete and maintain training records, student progress reports, maintenance logs, and certification documentation to meet institutional, state, and federal requirements.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate effectively with students, colleagues, and external stakeholders; respond promptly to inquiries and provide clear guidance on policies and testing requirements.
• Program Development & Institutional Participation: Participate in curriculum development, discipline committee meetings, and program improvement initiatives, aligning materials with industry advancements.
• Professional Development & Certification Compliance: Stay current with CDL training standards and certifications (First Aid/CPR/AED, Third‑Party Examiner, ELDT, FMCSA, OSHA, Vehicle Inspection, Skills Assessment) and obtain required certifications within six months of hire.
• Travel & Multi‑Site Training Support: Travel as required to multiple training locations to ensure consistent instruction and program delivery.

Required Qualifications

• Valid Class A CDL license with appropriate endorsements (Passenger, Air brakes, Hazmat).
• DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
• Minimum two years of commercial driving experience.
• Minimum one year of technical experience in vehicle operation and maintenance.
• Clean driving record – no major accidents within the last three years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Teaching or training experience, or demonstrated expertise in conducting both written and practical CDL exams.
• Clean driving record – no major accidents within the last five years.
• Strong understanding of higher education and workforce‑development landscapes.
• Experience developing non‑credit courses or curricula and implementing short‑term credit programs.
• Relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree where accreditation or licensure does not require a specific degree.
• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor conditions, including shop or lab settings, and to use standard equipment.

Core Competencies

• Stakeholder Engagement – building and maintaining effective relationships at all levels.
• Problem‑Solving – identifying, analyzing, and resolving challenges with strong critical‑thinking abilities.
• Customer Service and Teamwork – proactive engagement and effective collaboration.
• Adaptability and Flexibility – adjusting to changing priorities and fast‑paced environments.
• Professionalism & Confidentiality – maintaining high ethical standards and handling sensitive information discreetly.
• Ownership and Accountability – meeting deliverable deadlines with superior organizational skills.
• Organization and Attention to Detail – managing multiple tasks, prioritizing effectively, and delivering high‑quality results.
• Ethical Conduct – upholding integrity in all external relations activities.

Work Environment & Additional Information

This is an on‑campus, full‑time position requiring physical presence at the assigned location, with occasional travel to other sites. The role involves lifting up to 50 lb, operating trailer landing gear, and securing loads. Physical activities include frequent climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, standing for extended periods, crawling under vehicles, and handling tools. Work may be performed outdoors in varying weather, noise, and heavy‑equipment hazards. The position is classified as salaried, exempt under the FLSA, and is not ORP eligible.

Pay

Starting salary is $57,542.40 USD per year. The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Schedule

Full‑time, standard 40‑hour work week.