What are the responsibilities and job description for the CDL Class A LEAD Instructor Trainer position at 160 Driving Academy?
Description
About the Role
160 Driving Academy is the largest CDL training school in the country — 14 years strong, 90 locations across 32 states, training roughly 20,000 students a year at an average 88% first-time pass rate. Our instructors and leaders are why. As a Lead CDL Class A Instructor, you will oversee daily training operations while mentoring instructors and supporting student success from enrollment through CDL testing. You’ll work hands-on in the yard, on the road, and alongside instructional staff to ensure training consistency, safety, and strong first-time pass outcomes.This is a local leadership opportunity for experienced Class A drivers ready to transition from long-haul driving into a career focused on coaching, mentoring, and developing the next generation of CDL drivers and instructors — while being home every night.
Our Compensation
Requirements
Requirements
About the Role
160 Driving Academy is the largest CDL training school in the country — 14 years strong, 90 locations across 32 states, training roughly 20,000 students a year at an average 88% first-time pass rate. Our instructors and leaders are why. As a Lead CDL Class A Instructor, you will oversee daily training operations while mentoring instructors and supporting student success from enrollment through CDL testing. You’ll work hands-on in the yard, on the road, and alongside instructional staff to ensure training consistency, safety, and strong first-time pass outcomes.This is a local leadership opportunity for experienced Class A drivers ready to transition from long-haul driving into a career focused on coaching, mentoring, and developing the next generation of CDL drivers and instructors — while being home every night.
Our Compensation
- Hourly base pay of $30.00–$32.00, based on experience and state regulations.
- Performance bonus opportunities tied to training outcomes and yard performance.
- Opportunity for annual merit increases based on business performance.
- Additional paid hours for placement fairs, truck care, and operational support during scheduled downtime.
- Monday through Friday, typically 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM or 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Higher-volume yards may operate seven days per week with alternative scheduling options, including some four-day work weeks.
- Reliable, on-time attendance is essential to support both instructors and students.
- Occasional fill in at another regional yard. There is a possibility to stay over in a hotel. Per diem paid, and mileage is paid if you are using your own vehicle.
- Mentor and support CDL instructors to ensure effective and consistent training delivery.
- Oversee student instruction including pre-trip inspections, yard maneuvers, and road driving.
- Promote safety, professionalism, and compliance throughout all training activities.
- Monitor student progress and assist instructors with CDL exam preparation strategies.
- Track training effectiveness and provide coaching and feedback to instructors.
- Maintain accurate documentation, evaluations, attendance records, and training reports.
- Work collaboratively with instructors and leadership to maintain consistent curriculum standards.
- Assist with scheduling, operational coordination, and instructor coverage when needed.
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and professional training yard and facility.
- Support truck transfers to repair operations and neighboring yards when required.
- Exhibit patience, professionalism, and a student-focused approach to leadership and instruction.
- Lead your team in carrying out company policies and operation procedures.
- Reporting of all incidents and accidents to corporate in a timely manner.
- Dealing with emergencies in a professional and calm manner.
- Ability to climb in and out of tractor cabs, demonstrate maneuvers, and remain active throughout the workday.
- Complete a 90-day probationary period to ensure adherence to safety, compliance, and curriculum standards.
- Additional requirements that apply specific to the role may be requested.
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage (shared expense).
- Paid vacation:
- 1 week to start
- 2 weeks after year 1
- 3 weeks after year 2
- Paid holidays and PTO.
- 8-hour paid day off for perfect annual attendance.
- Paid birthday holiday after 1 year of service.
- $3,000 relocation benefit for eligible moves over 100 miles.
- $500 referral bonus per instructor hire.
- Branded gear and access to yard laptops and equipment.
- Career path opportunities: Yard Instructor ? Assistant Lead Instructor ? Lead Instructor ? Regional Manager.
Requirements
Requirements
- Must reside in the state or have a residence in place for relocation.
- Valid CDL Class A license with a minimum of 24 months of verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience.
- Safe driving record and ability to pass DOT physical and drug/alcohol screening.
- Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to mentor students.
- Basic computer skills to track student progress and scheduling.
Salary : $30 - $32