Full Time CDL Instructor

Commercial Driving Instructor

Job Summary/Description

As a Commercial Driving Instructor at DRIVE509, you play a vital role in training, guiding, and developing the next generation of commercial drivers. In this position, you are responsible for delivering high-quality instruction in the classroom, training yard, and on the road in accordance with DRIVE509 standards, FMCSA ELDT requirements, and Washington State regulations.

You are expected to demonstrate professionalism, patience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to safety at all times. Your role includes teaching vehicle inspections, backing maneuvers, and road driving; reinforcing safe and compliant commercial driving practices; and supporting students of varying skill levels as they work toward earning their CDL.

In addition to instructional duties, you are responsible for maintaining accurate training documentation, monitoring student progress, and providing clear, constructive feedback. You also contribute to the preparation, upkeep, and continual improvement of training materials, lesson plans, and instructional resources.

As a member of the DRIVE509 team, you are expected to show initiative, be dependable, and support the overall operations of the school. This includes assisting with yard setup, equipment checks, student coordination, and other tasks that ensure efficient training and a positive learning environment. Because we are a small, student-focused organization, flexibility and a willingness to step in where needed are essential components of your role.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality training and instruction to commercial driving students in classroom, yard, and behind-the-wheel environments.
• Teach various components of CDL training, including:
• Vehicle inspection
• Air brake systems
• Backing maneuvers
• Road driving
• Tractor–trailer and tanker operation
• Foster a positive and engaging learning environment for adult learners.
• Evaluate trainee performance and provide timely, constructive feedback.
• Ensure all training aligns with FMCSA ELDT standards, state regulations, and industry best practices.
• Maintain accurate student training records and documentation.
• Assist with curriculum development, training materials, and continuous improvement of instructional content.
• Support DRIVE509 operations by stepping in wherever needed to ensure student success and smooth daily operations.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of commercial vehicle operation, safety protocols, and industry regulations.
• Ability to teach and communicate concepts clearly to adult learners with varying experience levels.
• Proficiency in classroom management and student engagement strategies.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Patience, professionalism, and a commitment to student success.
• Problem-solving abilities and sound judgment in high-responsibility training environments.
• Commitment to safety, compliance, and maintaining DRIVE509’s training standards.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of recent commercial driving experience with a clean driving record.
• Extensive knowledge of tractor-trailer operation, air brake systems, and tanker safety.
• Training or teaching experience preferred but not required—DRIVE509 will train the right candidate.

Physical Requirements

Commercial Driving Instructors must meet certain physical demands to safely perform job duties in the classroom, yard, and behind the wheel.

Applicants must be able to:

• Must have a current DOT Medical Card issued by a FMCSA approved medical examiner that signifies you meet the physical qualifications for CDL drivers outlined in . .
• Stand and walk for extended periods while demonstrating pre-trip inspections and yard skills (up to 6–8 hours/day).
• Climb in and out of commercial vehicles multiple times per day (using 3–4 steps at varying heights).Three (3) points of contact must be maintained when entering and exiting the vehicle.
• Bend, kneel, squat, and reach to inspect vehicle components such as brake chambers, tires, kingpins, and engine compartments.
• Safely lift, push, or pull up to 40–50 lbs (e.g., equipment, training materials, trailer components, chains).
• Tolerate outdoor working conditions in all weather, including heat, cold, wind, and precipitation.
• Sit for extended periods during in-cab instruction or road training (up to 1–4 hours at a time).
• Maintain the physical ability to monitor surroundings, react quickly during driver training, and ensure safety during all phases of instruction.
• Have sufficient hearing, vision, and situational awareness to supervise commercial vehicle operation.

Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities, in accordance with applicable laws, as long as safety and instruction are not compromised.

Work Schedules and Flexibility

• Monday–Friday: 8-hour shifts
• Typical Day Schedules: 6:30AM–3:30PM, 7:30AM–4:30PM,

8:00AM–5:00PM, 9:45AM-6:30PM

• Typical Evening Shift :1:00PM-9:30PM
• HAZMAT Instructors-Saturday/Sunday every 3 weeks on a rotation
• Commercial Driving Instructor schedules at DRIVE509 are generally consistent, with standard daytime shifts assigned based on operational needs. While most instructors typically work the same hours each week, schedules may be adjusted as needed to accommodate student enrollment, training timelines, staffing levels, and overall business needs.
• Instructors are expected to maintain reasonable flexibility and adaptability when shift adjustments are required. This may include supporting alternate start times, extended training days, weekend training rotations, or other schedule modifications during peak enrollment periods.
• Although certain instructors are primarily assigned to daytime or nighttime roles, all instructors must be prepared to assist with occasional evening or night training when coverage is needed. This ensures continuity of instruction for students and supports the smooth operations of the school.
• DRIVE509 will provide as much advance notice as possible for schedule changes; however, instructors should expect that adjustments may occur as part of normal business operations and must be willing to support these changes as needed.

Pay: $25.00 - $29.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• CDL (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Spokane Valley, WA 99216 (Required)

Work Location: In person