CDL Instructor

Title: CDL Instructor

Agency: Mountain Gateway Community College

Location: Clifton Forge - 560

FLSA: Exempt

Hiring Range: $52,000 to $70,000 (salary will be determined based on the candidate's educational background and professional experience)

Full Time or Part Time: Full Time

Additional Detail

Job Description:

Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) is a two-year public institution of higher education and one of 23 community colleges in Virginia. The college is supported by the Commonwealth of Virginia; the counties of Alleghany, Bath, Botetourt (northern portion) and Rockbridge; the cities of Buena Vista, Covington, and Lexington; and the town of Clifton Forge. MGCC provides opportunities for the extension of knowledge, skills and personal enrichment in an environment that maintains high academic standards and respect for each individual. The college strives to keep programs and services financially and geographically accessible for all students. Credit and non-credit courses are offered to meet life-long learning needs. On-site and distance learning options incorporate up-to-date technologies.

Train the Next Generation of Professional Drivers

Are you an experienced CDL Class A driver looking for a rewarding career that allows you to share your knowledge, work closer to home, and make a lasting impact on the transportation industry?

We are seeking a dedicated CDL Instructor to join our growing Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training program. This position provides classroom, range, and behind-the-wheel instruction to students preparing for successful careers in commercial transportation. The majority of behind-the-wheel and skills training will be conducted in the Clifton Forge and Buena Vista, Virginia area, allowing instructors to work directly with students in a dynamic, hands-on training environment.

This is an opportunity to move from the driver's seat to the instructor's seat while helping build the workforce that keeps America moving.

Why Join MGCC?

Make a Difference

Help students gain the skills, confidence, and professionalism needed to earn their CDL and launch successful careers in trucking and transportation.

Stay Local

Enjoy a career that allows you to leverage your industry experience while spending more time at home and less time on the road.

Outstanding Virginia State Benefits

As a Virginia state employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that include:

• Virginia Retirement System (VRS) participation
• Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid annual and sick leave
• Paid state holidays
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Employee assistance programs
• Professional development opportunities
• Optional deferred compensation and retirement savings plans
• Tuition assistance and educational opportunities where applicable

Position Responsibilities:
CDL Instructor for the Commercial Driver's License program is a full-time (12 month - 40 hours per week) non-credit faculty position in the Workforce Solutions & Community Education (WSCE) division. The position reports to the CDL Program Head. The position is responsible for providing training to CDL students.

• Classroom and Behind-the-Wheel Instruction: Deliver high-quality classroom, range, and road training for Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A students in accordance with program standards and federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.
• Assess student progress, provide constructive feedback, and document performance to ensure readiness for CDL skills testing and employment.
• Promote and enforce a safety-first culture by modeling safe driving practices and ensuring compliance with all program safety policies and procedures.
• Support student success through coaching, guidance, and individualized instruction that addresses varying learning styles and skill levels.
• Maintain accurate student attendance, training hours, skills assessments, and other required instructional documentation.

• Ensure all training activities are conducted in accordance with FMCSA regulations, ELDT requirements, DOT standards, and applicable state licensing requirements.
• Assist with maintaining student records, training documentation, and reporting requirements within program databases and federal registries.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of training vehicles and report maintenance or safety concerns to appropriate personnel.
• Work closely with the CDL Program Head to support training schedules, testing preparation, and efficient program operations.

• Professional Representation: Represent the CDL program in a professional manner when interacting with students, employers, industry partners, and community stakeholders.
• Recruitment Support: Participate in recruiting events, career fairs, and program outreach activities to promote CDL training opportunities.
• Workforce Preparation: Prepare students for successful entry into the transportation industry by emphasizing professionalism, regulatory compliance, and employability skills.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the CDL Program Head to support the success, growth, and compliance of the CDL training program.

Minimum Qualifications:

Licensing & Certifications

• Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A with appropriate endorsements.
• Current DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate (Medical Card) or ability to obtain and maintain one.
• Clean driving record with no disqualifying offenses.
• Eligibility to serve as a CDL instructor under applicable state and federal regulations.
• Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) instructor qualifications as required by FMCSA regulations.

Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of recent commercial driving experience operating Class A commercial vehicles.
• Previous experience training, mentoring, coaching, or instructing drivers preferred.
• Experience with over-the-road, regional, local, or specialized commercial transportation operations preferred.
• Experience working with diverse populations and adult learners preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of FMCSA, DOT, and state CDL regulations and safety requirements.
• Strong understanding of vehicle inspection procedures, defensive driving techniques, and safe operating practices.
• Ability to effectively teach classroom, range, and behind-the-wheel instruction.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to evaluate student performance and provide constructive feedback.
• Proficiency in maintaining accurate training records and documentation.
• Ability to use computers and training management systems for recordkeeping and reporting.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a training team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely operate commercial motor vehicles for extended periods.
• Ability to enter and exit commercial vehicles, climb ladders, and perform vehicle inspections.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to pass any required background checks, drug screenings, and DOT-related requirements.

Additional Considerations:

• Prior CDL instructor or driver trainer experience.
• Experience preparing students for CDL skills testing.
• Associate degree or higher in transportation, education, workforce development, or a related field.
• Knowledge of Virginia and West Virginia CDL licensing and testing procedures.
• Experience using Learning Management Systems (LMS) or student information systems.

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer