CDL Class A Instructor Trainer in Commerce, Georgia at 160 Driving Academy
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Job Description
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 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.
Our Compensation
- 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.
Our Schedule
- Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM or 8:00 AM - 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.
- Students depend on their instructors being present. Reliable, on-time attendance is core to the role.
What You Will Do At 160 Driving Academy
- 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.
- Reporting of 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.
- 90-day probationary period to ensure adherence to safety, compliance and curriculum.
- Assist with the transfer of trucks to repair operations and neighboring yards for use.
- Student-centric approach to teaching with ability to exhibit patience and professionalism.
- Ability to climb in/out of a tractor cab, sit and stand for extended periods, and demonstrate maneuvers.
- Additional requirements that apply specific to the role may be requested.
Our Required Credentials
- High school graduation certificate 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.
- 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 Experience
- Four or more years of consistent Class A driving experience.
- Prior experience mentoring, coaching, or training drivers.
- Driver Training Instructor certification (we provide guidance and support to obtain it if your state requires it).