CDL Class A LEAD Instructor Trainer in Oceanside, California at 160 Driving Academy

About the Role160 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–$36.00, 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.

Our Schedule

• 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.

What You Will Do at 160 Driving Academy

• 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.

Our Benefits

• 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.

Why Work at 160 Driving Academy?We train the people America runs on. With 90+ yards across 32 states and the highest training volume of any CDL school in the country, we offer real career growth for experienced drivers who want to make a lasting impact.If you’re ready to lead instructors, support students, and help shape the future of CDL training while staying local, we want to hear from you.
Apply today to begin your career as a Lead CDL Class A Instructor Trainer.160 Driving Academy appreciates and supports our nation’s veterans and strongly encourages them to apply.
Equal Opportunity Employer160 Driving Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Our Required Credentials

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Class A CDL with a minimum of 24 months of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer driving experience. Exception – The State of Nevada requires 5 years of Class A CDL experience.
• Safe driving record with an MVR free of major violations.
• Knowledge of the rules of the road and local state laws.
• Reliable and trustworthy to show up daily on time and ready to lead your team.
• Ability to pass DOT physical and DOT-mandated drug and alcohol screening.
• Strong leadership, communication, mentoring, and coaching skills.
• High level of patience and the ability to deal with difficult and stressful situations calmly.
• Basic computer skills for scheduling, reporting, and tracking student progress.
• Must reside in the state you are applying for or have confirmed relocation housing secured.
• Background check clearance required.
• Must meet all state instructor licensing requirements where applicable.
• Manual transmission experience with the ability to teach manual operation.
• Ability to adapt instruction and coaching to different learning styles.

Preferred Qualifications

• Leadership or supervisory experience in transportation or training environments.
• Prior experience mentoring or training instructors and students.
• Four or more years of consistent Class A driving experience.
• Driver Training Instructor certification (when required by the state, we will assist with getting the certification).
• Knowledge of FMCSA regulations and CDL training/testing standards.