CDL Instructor

Colorado Mesa University•Grand Junction, CO

11d•Onsite

About The Position

CMU Tech is seeking an experienced Class A CDL professional who is passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping others succeed. As a CDL Instructor, you'll guide students through every stage of their training journey—from mastering pre-trip inspections and vehicle safety checks to developing the skills and confidence needed to pass their CDL exam and begin a rewarding career in the transportation industry. This is a hands-on teaching role where you'll work directly with students on the training range, and behind the wheel. Whether you're demonstrating backing maneuvers, coaching students through road-driving exercises, or helping them prepare for testing, you'll play an important role in shaping the next generation of professional drivers. If you're ready to step away from long-haul schedules and use your experience to make a lasting impact, this position offers the opportunity to stay close to home while helping students achieve their goals.

Requirements

Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL). With no restrictions (Manual)
Minimum of two years of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer driving experience.
Safe driving record and commitment to professional standards.
Strong knowledge of commercial vehicle operations, safety practices, and applicable federal regulations.
Excellent communication skills and a desire to mentor and support student learning.
Ability to demonstrate vehicle operations and training exercises in both range and road environments.
Ability to meet all applicable DOT physical, drug screening, and driver qualification requirements.
Applicant must be able to verify U.S. employment eligibility.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience mentoring, coaching, or training others.
Familiarity with CDL testing requirements and commercial driver education.
Knowledge of FMCSA regulations and industry compliance standards.
Experience working with diverse learners and adapting instruction to meet individual needs.
Certification as a CDL tester in Colorado or other states
Experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and who have a demonstrated commitment to improving the levels of access and success for underrepresented students within higher education.

Responsibilities

Provide instruction in CDL Class A skills, safety procedures, and industry best practices.
Provide instruction in designated CDL vehicles and trailers to include manual transmissions.
Coach students through pre-trip inspections, vehicle control exercises, backing maneuvers, and on-road driving.
Create a positive learning environment that encourages confidence, professionalism, and safe driving habits.
Monitor student progress, evaluate performance, and provide individualized feedback and support to prepare students for successful CDL-A skills tests
Maintain accurate training records, attendance documentation, and student evaluations.
Document and upload all training proficiency requirements for each student.
Work collaboratively with fellow instructors and program leadership to ensure a consistent, high-quality learning experience.
Promote compliance with FMCSA, DOT, and state regulations governing commercial vehicle operations.
Provide safe, professional, and effective driving instruction in accordance with FMCSA, DOT and state regulations and Colorado Mesa University/CMU Tech policies.
Promote a strong safety culture by modeling professionalism, effective risk management, hazard identification, and sound decision-making.
Maintain confidentiality of student records and protected educational information in accordance with applicable university policies and regulations.
Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and professional training equipment and environment.
Represent Colorado Mesa University/CMU Tech professionally during CDL training related activities and interactions with students, faculty, staff, and industry partners.
Assist the department in marketing and recruiting students from Western Colorado to attend CDL training.
Participate in events that will advertise the program and make contacts through employers, workforce centers and other industry leaders.
Some recording of marketing/recruiting events and training performance will need to be done to allow reports to be completed related to grant funding.
Maintain instructor licenses and required endorsements.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the CDL and Community Education Center program.
Provide instruction during weekdays, evenings and occasional weekends.