CDL Instructor

UHP•Gentry, AR

18d•Onsite

About The Position

UHP is launching a CDL program in 2027 in partnership with Northwest Arkansas employers, including J.B. Hunt and Walmart. The CDL Instructor teaches Class A students in the classroom, on the range, and behind the wheel, preparing them to pass the CDL skills test and enter the workforce. As one of the first instructors on the team, this role will help shape how the program operates. Many students will be veterans and transitioning service members changing careers.

Requirements

Current Class A CDL with the endorsements needed for the vehicles taught, and a valid DOT medical card.
If a CDL was cancelled, suspended, or revoked for a disqualifying offense under 49 CFR 383.51, it must have been reinstated at least two years ago.
At least two years of documented experience driving a commercial vehicle requiring a Class A CDL, or at least two years of experience as a behind-the-wheel CDL instructor.
Ability to be approved as an instructor by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.
Ability to meet FMCSA driver qualification standards and participate in DOT drug and alcohol testing.
Clear spoken and written communication, with comfort using tablets and basic recordkeeping software.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather, climb in and out of truck cabs, and lift up to 50 pounds.
High school diploma or GED.
Genuine passion for veteran transition and human development.
Comfort operating outside traditional corporate, academic, or military structures.
Willingness to build something new rather than maintain something established.
Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, mission-driven, high-accountability environment.
Respect for the coaching profession and elite performance culture, with a service-oriented leadership mindset.
Commitment to a healthy lifestyle and modeling the human-performance principles students learn.

Nice To Haves

Prior CDL instructor, driver trainer, or ELDT experience.
Hazmat, tanker, or doubles/triples endorsements.
Over-the-road or regional driving experience with a strong safety record.
Experience identifying and handling minor maintenance on heavy trucks.
Military veteran status; experience as a motor transport operator (Army 88M) maps directly to the role.

Responsibilities

Teach Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory and behind-the-wheel content for Class A in accordance with the program curriculum.
Run range and road sessions covering pre-trip inspection, straight-line and offset backing, alley docking, parallel parking, and over-the-road driving.
Coach students to pass the CDL skills and road test and provide clear feedback after each session.
Evaluate student progress on a set schedule and accurately and promptly record training hours, attendance, and results.
Operate a safe range and road program and enforce safety rules during every session.
Inspect the training fleet, report maintenance deficiencies, and handle minor repairs.
Manage fuel procurement for the training fleet so trucks are ready for over-the-road instruction.
Maintain complete student records to support compliance with FMCSA Training Provider Registry and Arkansas Division of Higher Education requirements.
Mentor and coach veteran students, connecting military discipline to trade professionalism.
Document student issues and escalate them to the Director.
Provide feedback on curriculum and instructional materials.
Support students from licensing through job placement with employer partners.