CDL Behind the Wheel (BTW) instructor 

Location Options (3): 

- Northwest: Fairfax, Fredericksburg, Warrenton, or Leesburg

- Central: Chester or West Broad

- Eastern: Virginia Beach and Norfolk

Start: November 2025

Duration: Initially One Year

ST Pay Rate: $40 - $42 / hr ST (occasional OT required)

Job Summary

A CDL Behind the Wheel (BTW) instructor is a qualified professional tasked with training prospective commercial motor vehicle operators in the safe handling of Trucks on public roads. The role primarily emphasizes practical driving instruction during range sessions, facilitating candidates’ preparedness to pass the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) examination and attain certification as CDL drivers.

Key instructional areas include essential maneuvers such as pre and post trip inspection, backing, executing lane changes, and navigating diverse road conditions.

Key responsibilities of a CDL BTW instructor:

Provide comprehensive hands-on instruction to students on the operation of various commercial vehicles, including bucket trucks with a focus on proper driving techniques, safety protocols, and compliance with traffic regulations. Instruct students on performing detailed pre-trip inspections to detect potential mechanical issues with their assigned vehicles. Guide trainees through essential driving techniques such as backing, parallel parking, and maneuvering in confined areas. Delivery education on highway operations, including merging, lane changes, and speed management under varying road conditions. Highlight the importance of road safety, defensive driving practices, and hazard recognition.

Monitor student progress, identify opportunities for improvement, and offer tailored feedback. Ensure full compliance with all state and federal CDL training standards and requirements.

Additional responsibilities include administering CDL Entry Level Driver Theory, Basic Work Zone Traffic Control, and DMV Escort Driver Training modules.

Required qualifications for a CDL BTW instructor:

• Lineman, serviceman, augur truck operator, or other roles requiring comparable experience.

• Requires a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License and a clean driving record

• Significant experience driving commercial vehicles, including over-the-road (OTR) experience.

• Completion of a certified CDL instructor training program (preferred).

• Ability to effectively communicate driving instructions and safety guidelines to students.

• Capacity to work with diverse learners and adjust teaching methods based on individual needs.

• Familiarity with general Microsoft applications such as MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.

• Proficient oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to prioritize and organize tasks effectively.

• Proficient in using general Microsoft applications such as MS Word, Excel, and Outlook