CDL Class A Instructor Trainer

160 Driving Academy•Rockford, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

160 Driving Academy is hiring a CDL Class A Instructor Trainer to teach students the practical skills needed to earn a Class A CDL, from pre-trip inspections and yard maneuvers to on-road driving. The role is based at a designated training yard and works alongside other instructors and a Lead Instructor. Instructors may occasionally cover nearby regional yards, with hotel accommodation, per diem, and mileage paid when applicable. This is a local, hands-on role for experienced Class A drivers. Most yards operate Monday through Friday, either 7:00 AM–3:30 PM or 8:00 AM–4:30 PM. Higher-volume yards may operate seven days a week for ten hours per day, with alternative shifts that can include four-day work weeks. Reliable, punctual attendance is essential. The role includes light yard and building upkeep, such as litter pickup, basic painting, and general tidiness. A 90-day probationary period applies to ensure adherence to safety, compliance, and curriculum requirements. Compensation includes the opportunity for annual merit increases to hourly wages based on business performance. A monthly shared bonus pool is available when a yard averages an 80% first-time pass rate: each first-time pass adds $100 to the pool, which is split across the team and paid monthly. Full bonus eligibility requires an average student rating of 4.7 out of 5. Top-performing yards may also receive a $100 accident-free bonus. Additional paid hours are available for placement fairs and truck care during scheduled downtime.

Requirements

High school graduation certificate or equivalent.
Valid Class A CDL and at least 24 months of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer driving experience; Nevada requires five years of Class A CDL experience.
The state where the applicant obtained their driver's license must be the same state as the location where they are applying.
Manual transmission experience, including a license to operate and the ability to teach manual transmission.
Motor Vehicle Record free of violations.
Ability to pass a DOT physical and DOT-mandated drug and alcohol screening.
Clearance of a background check.
Strong communication skills and the ability to mentor and coach students.
Basic computer skills for tracking student progress and scheduling.
Residence in the state of application or confirmed residence secured for relocation.
Meet all state requirements for instructor licensing where licensing is required.
Complete a 90-day probationary period at hire.
Ability to climb in and out of a tractor cab, sit and stand for extended periods, and demonstrate driving maneuvers.
Reliable, punctual attendance.

Nice To Haves

Four or more years of consistent Class A driving experience.
Prior experience mentoring, coaching, or training drivers.
Driver Training Instructor certification; the company provides guidance and support to obtain it if required by the state.

Responsibilities

Teach Class A driving skills through hands-on training in outdoor yards using automatic and manual transmissions.
Guide students through pre-trip inspections, yard maneuvers, and on-road driving.
Prepare students to meet CDL testing standards and pass on their first attempt.
Track student attendance and progress and provide additional support when needed.
Maintain accurate training records, evaluations, and documentation.
Report incidents and accidents promptly to the Lead Instructor and corporate team.
Work with fellow instructors and the Lead Instructor to provide a consistent student experience and follow the defined curriculum.
Keep the yard and building clean and presentable, including light upkeep.
Cover for instructors at nearby regional yards in certain emergencies or when regional coverage is needed.
Assist with transferring trucks to repair operations and neighboring yards.
Demonstrate patience and professionalism while teaching and supporting students.

Benefits

Medical and dental coverage with shared expense.
Paid vacation: one week to start, two weeks after year one, and three weeks after year two.
An eight-hour paid day off for a full year of perfect attendance.
An eight-hour floating holiday for the employee's birthday after one year of service.
$3,000 relocation benefit for moving to a location more than 100 miles away.
$500 referral bonus per instructor hire.
Branded gear and access to yard laptops.
Opportunity for annual merit increases to hourly wages based on business performance.
Monthly shared bonus pool tied to yard first-time pass rates, subject to the stated eligibility requirements.
$100 accident-free bonus for top 15 yards.
Additional paid hours for placement fairs and truck care during scheduled downtime.
Per diem and mileage paid for qualifying regional yard coverage.