Truck Driving Instructor

Job Title: Truck Driving Trainer
Reports To: Director / Program Coordinator, Training Institute
Department: Training Institute
Location: State Center Community College District – Herndon Campus or designated driving site
Employment Type: Part-Time / Hourly (Not to Exceed)
Wage Rate: $55.86–$81.80 per hour (Trainer Level VI–X, depending on experience and qualifications)

Position Summary:

The State Center Community College District’s Training Institute is seeking a skilled and student-focused Truck Driving Trainer to deliver high-quality instruction in its Class A Commercial Driver License (CDL) training program. The Trainer will provide both classroom-based instruction and Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) training to prepare students for the California CDL Class A licensing exam, with a focus on safety, compliance, and job readiness. This role requires expertise in truck operations, DOT and FMCSA regulations, and hands-on teaching of vehicle inspections, yard maneuvers, and road driving. Trainer level placement (VI–X) will be based on relevant industry experience, instructional skill, and program leadership contributions.

Key Responsibilities:

Instruction & Student Training

• Deliver engaging classroom instruction covering topics such as vehicle systems, hours-of-service, trip planning, safety procedures, and California CDL exam requirements.
• Provide hands-on Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) training, including pre-trip inspections, straight-line backing, alley docking, and on-road driving in compliance with FMCSA standards and state testing criteria.
• Adapt instructional methods to accommodate diverse learner needs, experience levels, and learning styles.

Test Preparation & Compliance

• Prepare students for the California Class A CDL skills and knowledge exams, ensuring they understand state and federal regulatory requirements.
• Instruct students on proper truck and trailer inspection procedures, basic control skills, coupling/uncoupling, and real-world driving scenarios.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of FMCSA, DOT, and California DMV testing regulations.

Safety & Risk Management

• Enforce all safety protocols during yard and road training sessions.
• Monitor student performance and make real-time adjustments to maintain safety during hands-on instruction.
• Conduct risk assessments on student readiness before transitioning to more advanced driving elements.

Lab & Equipment Management

• Inspect and maintain training vehicles for safety and readiness before each session; report mechanical issues promptly.
• Coordinate vehicle assignments and ensure trucks are clean, fueled, and compliant with DOT inspection standards.
• Assist with scheduling and staging vehicle use for training, testing, and maintenance.

Student Mentorship & Progress Monitoring

• Track and report student attendance, participation, and skill progression.
• Provide regular feedback and coaching to help students improve technique, build confidence, and overcome learning challenges.
• Support students with test preparation strategies and job-readiness conversations related to the trucking industry.

Program Quality & Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with other Trainers and the Program Coordinator to maintain high program standards and contribute to continuous improvement.
• Assist in onboarding new students, orienting them to expectations, and helping maintain a supportive, inclusive learning environment.
• Mentor junior trainers or assistants when assigned and participate in staff meetings or advisory sessions to ensure consistency across instruction.

Minimum Qualifications:

• License: Valid California Class A Commercial Driver License (CDL) with a clean driving record. Must have a current DOT medical card.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of recent Class A driving experience required; prior instructional or driver training experience preferred.
• Certifications:
• Must meet California DMV’s qualifications to train CDL students.
• Completion of a Driver Trainer or Instructor Certification Program preferred (e.g., from PTDI, CVTA, or DMV-approved training).
• Education: High school diploma or GED required. Completion of a commercial driving training program is preferred.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with FMCSA, DOT, and California CDL exam regulations and requirements.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Proficient in classroom instruction and practical driving training for commercial vehicles with manual automatic transmissions.
• Knowledge of current trucking industry trends, logbook/HOS rules, and defensive driving techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; patient and supportive when working with adult learners of varied backgrounds.
• Strong commitment to safety, compliance, and student success.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a training team.
• Physical ability to climb into truck cabs, perform pre-trip inspections, and tolerate extended periods outdoors.

Other Requirements:

• Ability to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends, depending on the training schedule.
• Must pass a background check and drug screening in accordance with DOT regulations and SCCCD policy.
• Must have the ability to travel to designated training sites or DMV test locations as needed.

Trainer Level Placement (VI–X):

Final trainer level and hourly rate will be assigned based on:

• Total years of commercial driving and/or training experience.
• Teaching and instructional effectiveness (as assessed through demonstration and interview).
• Professional certifications, instructor endorsements, or training leadership experience.
• Ability to lead BTW sessions, support curriculum delivery, and contribute to continuous improvement of the CDL training program.

To Apply:

Submit a resume, cover letter describing your Class A driving and training experience, and copies of relevant licenses or certifications. Qualified applicants will be invited to a structured interview and may be asked to deliver a sample lesson or road skills evaluation.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $55.86 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 30 per week

Work Location: In person

Salary : $56 - $82