CDL Class A Instructor Trainer

160 Driving Academy•Waukegan, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

160 Driving Academy is the largest CDL training school in the country, with a strong history of success and a wide network of locations. As a CDL Class A Instructor Trainer, you will be responsible for teaching students all aspects of Class A driving, from initial inspections to passing their CDL exam. This role involves hands-on training in outdoor yards and behind the wheel, working with a team of instructors and a Lead Instructor. The position is based at a designated yard, with occasional opportunities to assist at other regional yards. Maintaining the cleanliness and presentability of the yard is also part of the responsibilities. This is a local, hands-on role for experienced Class A drivers seeking a career that allows them to stay home every night and be compensated for impactful outcomes.

Requirements

High school graduation certificate or equivalent.
Valid Class A CDL with a minimum of 24 months of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer driving experience. Exception – The State of Nevada requires 5 years of Class A CDL experience.
The state where you obtained your driver’s license must be the same state where you are applying to work at a 160 Driving Academy location.
Manual transmission experience — licensed to operate and able to teach manual transmission.
Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) free of violations.
Ability to pass DOT physical and DOT-mandated drug and alcohol screening.
Background check clearance required.
Strong communication skills with the ability to mentor and coach students.
Basic computer skills for tracking student progress and scheduling.
Residence in the state you are applying for, or a confirmed residence secured for relocation.
Must meet all state requirements for instructor licensing where instructor licensing is required.
90-day probationary period at hire.

Nice To Haves

Four or more years of consistent Class A driving experience.
Prior experience mentoring, coaching, or training drivers.
Driver Training Instructor certification (we provide guidance and support to obtain it if your state requires it).

Responsibilities

Teach Class A driving skills using hands-on training in outdoor yards on automatic and manual transmissions.
Guide students step-by-step through pre-trip inspections, yard maneuvers, and on-road driving.
Prepare students to pass CDL testing standards on the first attempt.
Track student attendance and progress; provide additional support when needed.
Maintain accurate training records, evaluations, and documentation.
Reporting of all incidents and accidents to your lead and corporate in a timely manner.
Work closely with fellow instructors and your Lead Instructor to deliver a consistent student experience and follow our defined curriculum.
Help keep the yard and building clean and presentable.
Cover for other instructors at nearby regional yards in certain emergencies.
Assist with the transfer of trucks to repair operations and neighboring yards for use.
Teach students CDL A driving skills through classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Provide step-by-step guidance in pre-trip inspections, yard maneuvers, and road driving.
Ensure students understand CDL testing standards and are fully prepared for the exam.
Promote safety, professionalism, and industry best practices in all training.
Track student attendance and progress, providing additional support when needed.
Maintain proper documentation, including student evaluations and training records.
Work collaboratively with other instructors to provide an effective training experience.

Benefits

Medical and dental (shared expense).
Paid vacation: 1 week to start, 2 weeks after year 1, 3 weeks after year 2.
8-hour paid day off for a full year of perfect attendance.
Paid day off for your birthday after 1 year of service (8 hours floating holiday).
$3,000 relocation benefit for moving to our locations 100+ miles away.
$500 referral bonus per instructor hire.
Branded gear (vests, hats, flashlights, gauges) and access to yard laptops.
Career path: Yard Instructor ? Assistant Lead Instructor ? Lead Instructor ? Regional Manager.
Local, steady work schedule with no overnight travel.
Hourly pay based on experience.
Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, PTO, and paid holidays.
Onboarding and training to help you transition from driver to instructor.
Career stability and relocation opportunities.
An opportunity to make a lasting impact by training the next generation of truck drivers.