CDL Classs A Instructor Trainer

160 Driving Academy•Freeport, IL

4h•$28 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

160 Driving Academy is the largest CDL training school in the country, with a strong history of training a high volume of students annually and maintaining an excellent first-time pass rate. The CDL Class A Instructor Trainer role involves teaching students all aspects of CDL preparation, from initial inspections to final testing, both in the yard and behind the wheel. This position is based at a designated yard and requires collaboration with other instructors and a Lead Instructor. Occasional travel to other regional yards may be necessary to provide coverage. Maintaining the cleanliness and presentability of the yard is also a responsibility. This role is ideal for experienced Class A drivers seeking a local position that allows them to stay home nightly 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.
Ability to climb in/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 (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.
Demonstrate a student-centric approach to teaching with ability to exhibit patience and professionalism.
Ability to climb in/out of a tractor cab, sit and stand for extended periods, and demonstrate maneuvers.
Keep the yard clean and presentable — light upkeep such as litter pickup, basic painting, and general tidiness.

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.
Opportunity for annual merit increases to hourly wage based on business performance.
Monthly bonus pool payout: When your yard averages an 80% first-time pass rate, every first-time pass adds $100 to a shared pool, split across the team and paid monthly. Full bonus eligibility requires a 4.7/5 average student rating.
$100 accident-free bonus for top 15 yards.
Additional paid hours for placement fairs and truck care during scheduled downtime.