Commercial Truck Driving Instructor

Clover Park Technical College•Lakewood, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The CDL Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality commercial truck driving instruction to students pursuing Class A and/or Class B Commercial Driver’s Licenses in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations. This position supports the College’s mission by preparing students for immediate entry into the transportation and logistics workforce through classroom instruction, hands-on vehicle operation training, and skills assessment. The instructor develops and maintains curriculum aligned with FMCSA standards, industry best practices, and program learning outcomes to ensure students are prepared to successfully complete Washington State CDL knowledge and skills examinations. The CDL Instructor contributes to Clover Park Technical College’s commitment to workforce development by expanding access to high-demand skilled trades careers and promoting student success in the transportation industry.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with no disqualifying violations under FMCSA regulations.
Three (3) or more years of commercial motor vehicle driving experience within the past seven (7) years.
Eligibility to serve as a registered FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) instructor, including meeting instructor qualification standards under 49 CFR Part 380.
Clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) meeting Washington State DOL standards for licensed CDL instructors.
Knowledge of federal and state commercial motor vehicle regulations, hours of service rules, FMCSA standards, and Washington State CDL licensing requirements.
Ability to communicate clearly in oral and written form; demonstrated ability to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds and varying academic skill levels.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree or vocational/technical certificate.
Prior teaching, training, or instructional experience in a formal educational or workforce training setting.
Experience operating multiple CMV configurations (flatbed, tanker, doubles/triples, or specialized cargo).
Familiarity with community college operations, workforce development programs, or apprenticeship training models.
HAZMAT endorsement and/or experience with hazardous materials transportation regulations.

Responsibilities

Delivers scheduled classroom instruction covering FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory curriculum including federal and state regulations, hours of service, cargo securement, hazardous materials awareness, and vehicle systems
Conduct pre-trip inspection labs using CPTC’s training vehicles
Administers knowledge checks and practice tests aligned to the Washington State CDL written examination; maintains accurate attendance and academic records in compliance with college policy.
Develops, updates, and aligns curriculum to current FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training standards and Washington State DOL requirements
Maintains the program’s registration on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR)
Prepares and updates course outlines, syllabi, lesson plans, and instructional materials
Track regulatory changes and incorporates updates into classroom and BTW content
Coordinate with the Dean to ensure program compliance with accreditation and state reporting requirements.
Evaluates individual student progress using formative and summative assessments against FMCSA ELDT proficiency standards
Provide timely feedback and remediation to students who need additional support
Advise students on CDL licensing pathways, exam preparation, and career entry
Maintains records of student competency completions and submits required documentation to the Washington State DOL and FMCSA TPR system
Conducts or coordinates daily pre-trip inspections of training vehicles and trailers
Identify and reports maintenance needs to the Dean or facilities staff
Ensures training vehicles are roadworthy, legally registered, and properly insured before student use
Maintain training area safety standards including cone layouts and range markings
Monitors fuel levels and coordinates fueling schedules.
Participates in program advisory committee meetings and maintains relationships with regional trucking carriers, logistics companies, and workforce development partners to promote student employment outcomes
Stay current on CDL industry trends, regulations, and technology
attends professional development activities as required by the collective bargaining agreement and as directed by the Dean
Participate in departmental meetings, student recruitment events, and college-wide initiatives as assigned.