CDL Class A Instructor Trainer

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 with an overall 88% average first‑time pass rate. Our instructors are why.

As a CDL Class A Instructor Trainer, you teach students from their first pre‑trip inspection to the day they pass their CDL exam — in the yard, and behind the wheel. You will be based at a designated yard, working alongside a team of instructors and a Lead Instructor. From time to time, you may be asked to fill in at other regional yards when coverage is needed.

Keeping your yard clean and presentable — light upkeep such as litter pickup, basic painting, and general tidiness — is part of the role.

This is local, hands‑on work for experienced Class A drivers ready to trade the long‑haul life for a role that keeps you home every night and pays you for outcomes that matter.

Opportunity for annual merit increases to hourly wage based on business performance. Monthly bonus pool payout:
When your yard averages an 80% first‑time pass rate, every first‑time pass adds $100 to a shared pool, split across the team and paid monthly. Full bonus eligibility requires a 4.7/5 average student rating. $100 accident‑free bonus for top 15 yards. Additional paid hours for placement fairs and truck care during scheduled downtime.

Monday through Friday, 7:00AM to 3:30PM or 8:00AM–4:30PM for most yards. Higher volume yards sometimes run seven days a week, ten hours per day — opening alternative shifts including some four‑day work weeks with three days off. 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.

• Teach Class A driving skills using hands‑on training in outdoor yards on automatic and manual transmissions.
• Guide students step‑by‑step through pre‑trip inspections, yard maneuvers, and on‑road driving.
• Prepare students to pass CDL testing standards on the first attempt.
• Track student attendance and progress; provide additional support when needed.
• Maintain accurate training records, evaluations, and documentation.
• Report all incidents and accidents to your lead and corporate in a timely manner.
• Work closely with fellow instructors and your Lead Instructor to deliver a consistent student experience and follow our defined curriculum.
• Help keep the yard and building clean and presentable.
• Cover for other instructors at nearby regional yards in certain emergencies.
• Assist with the transfer of trucks to repair operations and neighboring yards for use.
• Maintain a student‑centric approach to teaching with ability to exhibit patience and professionalism.
• Demonstrate the physical ability to climb in/out of a tractor cab, sit and stand for extended periods, and perform driving maneuvers.
• Adhere to a 90‑day probationary period to ensure compliance with safety, curriculum, and company standards.

• High school graduation certificate or equivalent.
• Valid Class A CDL with a minimum of 24 months of verifiable Class A tractor‑trailer driving experience (5 years for Nevada).
• The state where you obtained your driver’s license must be the same state where you are applying to work at a 160 Driving Academy location.
• Manual transmission experience — licensed to operate and able to teach manual transmission.
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) free of violations.
• Ability to pass DOT physical and DOT‑mandated drug and alcohol screening.
• Background check clearance required.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to mentor and coach students.
• Basic computer skills for tracking student progress and scheduling.
• Residence in the state you are applying for, or a confirmed residence secured for relocation.
• Must meet all state requirements for instructor licensing where instructor licensing is required.
• 90‑day probationary period at hire.
• Preferred:
  Four or more years of consistent Class A driving experience.
• Preferred:
  Prior experience mentoring, coaching, or training drivers.
• Preferred:
  Driver Training Instructor certification (training provided if required by the…