CDL Trainer

Texas State Technical College•Abilene, TX

22h•$57,542•Onsite

About The Position

The CDL Trainer provides classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction to prepare individuals for their written and practical Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) examinations. This role ensures students develop the skills, knowledge, and safety practices required for commercial vehicle operation while adhering to federal and state regulations. Trainers maintain training materials, assess student progress, and support program improvements. This position also administers CDL skills tests and may require travel between training locations.

Requirements

Valid Class A CDL license from a state-approving agency with appropriate endorsements (Passenger, Air brakes, Hazmat) required.
DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate required.
Two years of required commercial driving experience.
One year of required technical skills in vehicle operation and maintenance.
Clean Driving Record: No major accidents within the last three years required.

Nice To Haves

Preferred teaching or training experience or demonstrated expertise in conducting both written and practical CDL exams.
Clean Driving Record: No major accidents within the last five years preferred.
Strong understanding of higher education and workforce development landscape.
Demonstrated experience in non-credit course/curriculum development with practical involvement in developing and implementing a variety of credit, non-credit and short-term credit programs.
Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree, except in cases where a specific degree is required to meet accreditation standards, licensure requirements, or other legislative or regulatory obligations.

Responsibilities

Deliver comprehensive classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction to prepare students for obtaining their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or other endorsements.
Ensure proficiency in vehicle operation, pre-trip inspections, shifting techniques, coupling/uncoupling procedures, and defensive driving strategies.
Teach and reinforce state and federal regulations, including FMCSA guidelines, hours of service (HOS), hazardous materials (HAZMAT) handling, and proper load securement.
Ensure students understand and comply with all industry standards and safety protocols.
Conduct skills assessments, written exams, and practical road tests to evaluate student progress.
Provide timely feedback and maintain accurate records of student performance, attendance, and certification readiness.
Perform pre- and post-trip inspections on training vehicles, ensuring operational safety, compliance with DOT regulations, and proper maintenance of training equipment.
Address any safety concerns or equipment deficiencies as needed.
Maintain a structured and safe learning environment by enforcing safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring adherence to all training site safety regulations.
Demonstrate proficiency in instructional techniques by integrating real-world scenarios, simulation training, and updated industry methodologies.
Continuously improve course content and delivery to align with workforce demands.
Accurately complete and maintain training records, student progress reports, maintenance logs, and certification documentation.
Ensure all reports comply with institutional, state, and federal regulatory requirements.
Communicate effectively with students, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
Respond promptly to student inquiries providing clear guidance on course expectations, policies, and testing requirements.
Actively participate in curriculum development, discipline committee meetings, and program improvement initiatives.
Align training materials with industry advancements and workforce needs.
Stay current with CDL training standards and certification requirements, including, First Aid (including CPR & AED) Certification, Third-Party Examiner Certification, Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) compliance, FMCSA Compliance Training, OSHA Certifications, Vehicle Inspection Training, Skills Assessment and Certification, and ongoing professional development which must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
Travel as required to multiple training locations, ensuring consistent instruction and program delivery across sites.
Lift up to 50 pounds, operate trailer landing gear, and secure loads.
Frequent climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and standing for extended periods, including crawling under vehicles and handling tools.
Exposure to varying weather, noise, and hazards associated with heavy equipment.
Maintain dexterity, coordination, and endurance to demonstrate safe driving techniques.