CDL Class A Instructor Trainer

160 Driving Academy•Maxwell, IL

9d•$28 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

160 Driving Academy is seeking an experienced Class A driver to train students in CDL skills at a designated training yard. The instructor teaches students from their first pre-trip inspection through their CDL examination, providing hands-on instruction in the yard and behind the wheel using automatic and manual transmissions. The instructor works with other instructors and a Lead Instructor to follow the defined curriculum and deliver a consistent student experience. Occasional coverage at other regional yards may be needed, and travel may involve an overnight hotel stay; per diem and mileage are paid in those circumstances. The role also includes keeping the yard and building clean and presentable, light upkeep, and helping transfer trucks to repair operations or neighboring yards. Most yards operate Monday through Friday, either 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. or 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Higher-volume yards may operate seven days a week, ten hours per day, with alternative shifts that can include four-day work weeks. Reliable, on-time attendance is essential. A 90-day probationary period applies to ensure adherence to safety, compliance, and curriculum expectations. Compensation includes opportunities for annual merit increases and a monthly shared bonus pool tied to the yard’s first-time pass rate and student ratings. Additional compensation may include a $100 accident-free bonus for employees at the top 15 yards and paid hours for placement fairs and truck care during scheduled downtime. Benefits include shared-expense medical and dental coverage, paid vacation, attendance and birthday paid days off, relocation assistance, and referral bonuses. The academy provides branded gear and access to yard laptops, and describes a career path from Yard Instructor to Assistant Lead Instructor, Lead Instructor, and Regional Manager.

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 160 Driving Academy location where they apply.
Manual transmission experience, including licensure 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 through a background check.
Strong communication skills and 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 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 maneuvers.

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.
Knowledge of FMCSA and state regulations related to CDL training and testing.

Responsibilities

Teach Class A driving skills through hands-on outdoor-yard training 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 the 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.
Work with fellow instructors and the Lead Instructor to follow the defined curriculum and deliver a consistent student experience.
Help keep the yard and building clean and presentable, including light upkeep.
Cover for instructors at nearby regional yards in certain emergencies or when coverage is needed.
Assist with transferring trucks to repair operations and neighboring yards.
Demonstrate patience and professionalism while providing student-centered instruction.

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.
Eight-hour paid day off after a full year of perfect attendance.
Paid eight-hour floating holiday for an 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, including vests, hats, flashlights, and gauges, 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 and student ratings.
$100 accident-free bonus for employees at the top 15 yards.
Additional paid hours for placement fairs and truck care during scheduled downtime.
Career path from Yard Instructor to Assistant Lead Instructor, Lead Instructor, and Regional Manager.