Area Training Manager

First Student•Remote CT, CT

2d•$70,000 - $75,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Area Training Manager is responsible for leading and executing driver training programs across multiple First Student locations throughout Connecticut. This role partners closely with Operations, Safety, Recruiting, and Customer Experience teams to ensure training is delivered consistently, regulatory requirements are met, and candidates receive an outstanding onboarding experience. You’ll directly supervise full-time and part-time trainers, coordinate training schedules across the area, monitor compliance, support safety initiatives, and help drive successful candidate onboarding from hire through qualification. This position requires travel throughout Connecticut (up to 50%) to support training operations, conduct site visits, coach trainers, and partner with location leadership. When not traveling, you’ll work in a hybrid capacity completing administrative responsibilities, planning training activities, reviewing compliance, and supporting operational needs.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Minimum 3 years of management experience, preferably in training or a related field.
Minimum 3 years of experience in transportation, safety, or training operations.
Working knowledge of federal, state, and local transportation and training regulations.
Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong leadership, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
Proven organizational and time management abilities.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Consistent attendance and punctuality.
Valid driver’s license required.
Ability to travel up to 50% throughout Connecticut.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Experience with learning management systems or training management software preferred.

Responsibilities

Execute company training programs across multiple locations, ensuring consistency with company standards and operating procedures.
Partner with Location Managers to facilitate efficient and effective new hire and ongoing training programs.
Support continuous improvement of training content and delivery methods.
Ensure consistent, high-quality training throughout the assigned territory.
Directly supervise full-time and part-time trainers throughout the assigned area.
Coordinate trainer schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all training activities.
Conduct coaching sessions, performance evaluations, and ongoing development conversations.
Ensure trainers maintain all required certifications and compliance requirements.
Balance trainer workloads while partnering with locations to effectively manage labor budgets.
Assist with recruiting, onboarding, and developing new trainers as needed.
Partner closely with Customer Experience Specialists to provide an outstanding onboarding experience.
Monitor candidate progress from hire through successful completion of training.
Ensure candidates receive clear, timely communication regarding schedules, expectations, and next steps.
Help improve candidate throughput and overall training completion rates.
Collaborate with Operations and Safety leadership to align training with operational goals and safety initiatives.
Support local safety training and ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
Serve as the primary training resource for Location Managers throughout the assigned territory.
Provide hands-on support during peak training periods or trainer absences when necessary.
Ensure all training activities comply with federal, state, local, and company regulations.
Maintain accurate training documentation and records.
Serve as the primary administrator for all training documentation and compliance.
Ensure all FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) requirements are accurately entered and maintained.
Monitor trainer and trainee compliance.
Prepare reports on training activity, trainer performance, compliance metrics, and candidate progression while using data to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Observe training sessions and provide ongoing coaching and feedback to trainers.
Partner with the Region Training Manager to continuously improve training content and delivery methods.
Address training concerns and implement solutions to maintain consistent, high-quality instruction.
Ensure company training standards are consistently executed across every location.
Ensure appropriate trainer staffing levels across all assigned locations.
Allocate training resources based on business needs and hiring demands.
Assist with recruiting and onboarding additional trainers as operational needs evolve.
Provide direct training support when needed during high-volume periods or trainer absences.
Maintain an active presence throughout the assigned territory by conducting regular site visits.
Build strong working relationships with trainers, trainees, and operational leadership.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of First Student’s operational and training objectives.

Benefits

Competitive Salary: $70,000 – $75,000 annually
Hybrid work environment
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Company-paid Life Insurance
401(k) with company match
Paid vacation and holidays
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
PerkSpot employee discount program
Tremendous career advancement opportunities across more than 540 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada
Positive, collaborative, safety-first culture focused on employee development and operational excellence