Job Description
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.
Starting salary is $57,542.40 USD Annual.
The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
Equivalent combination of education, training and relevant professional experience will be considered.
Essential Functions
- CDL Instruction & Training: 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.
- Regulatory Compliance & Safety Standards: 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.
- Student Evaluation & Assessment: 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.
- Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance: 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.
- Safety & Risk Management: Maintain a structured and safe learning environment by enforcing safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring adherence to all training site safety regulations.
- Instructional Excellence & Curriculum Enhancement: 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.
- Record-keeping & Compliance Documentation: 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.
- Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate effectively with students, colleagues, and external stakeholders. Respond promptly to student inquiries providing clear guidance on course expectations, policies, and testing requirements.
- Program Development & Institutional Participation: Actively participate in curriculum development, discipline committee meetings, and program improvement initiatives. Align training materials with industry advancements and workforce needs.
- Professional Development & Certification Compliance: 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 & Multi-Site Training Support: Travel as required to multiple training locations, ensuring consistent instruction and program delivery across sites.
Education, Experience, & Skills
Required Qualifications
- 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.
Note: At TSTC, formal education is valued, but it is not the only measure of readiness. We recognize that relevant professional experience, industry expertise, and demon