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Cdl Instructor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Bison Transport USA

CDL A Truck Driver

Nashville, TN

$750 - $2.0K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

In-Cab Instructors earn $1,750 - $2,000/week plus $500/successful student * Recent CDL Grads starting mileage pay (ask driver recruiter for more details) * Assigned Tractors & Take Home (within ...

Bison Transport USA

CDL A Truck Driver

Antioch, TN

$750 - $2.0K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

In-Cab Instructors earn $1,750 - $2,000/week plus $500/successful student * Recent CDL Grads starting mileage pay (ask driver recruiter for more details) * Assigned Tractors & Take Home (within ...

TNBR Careers

CDL Driver (Part-time)

Mc Minnville, TN · On-site

$35/hr

CDL Driver (Part-Time) Title: CDL Driver (for Mobile Trailer) Classification: Temporary ... Instructors will be asked to sign a background release authorizing TCAT - McMinnville to complete a ...

Ancora Education

CDL Driver Trainer-MMC

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

The CDL Driver Trainer will have proven longevity in the field, excellent communication skills, and possess demonstrated physical, intellectual, and leadership ability to perform duties over t ...

Waste Connections

CDL Driver

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

If you're a safety-focused CDL driver looking for a stable, rewarding career with a growing company, this is your opportunity to make a real impact in your local community. Why Work at Waste ...

lansing

CDL Driver

Knoxville, TN · On-site

A Day in the Life at Lansing: CDL Driver (youtube.com) HOME EVERY NIGHT! CDL Driver's day usually begins around 7:00 AM -- sometimes earlier -- and ends at approximately 4:30 PM -- generally no ...

EmployPro/Prime Drivers

NON CDL Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

NON CDL Drivers * Home Daily * Start time 6:00AM * Starting pay is $19/hour/ Plus OT * Touch Freight Required Apply online at www.primedrivers.com or contact us at 615-836-7798 Requirements ...

lansing

CDL Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

A Day in the Life at Lansing: CDL Driver (youtube.com) HOME EVERY NIGHT! CDL Driver's day usually begins around 7:00 AM -- sometimes earlier -- and ends at approximately 4:30 PM -- generally no ...

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All JobsCdl Instructor JobsCdl Instructor Jobs in Tennessee

Cdl Instructor information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do cdl instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdl instructor in Tennessee is $22.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common challenges CDL instructors face when training new drivers, and how can they be addressed?

CDL Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among students, language barriers, and ensuring that all trainees understand and adhere to safety regulations. Managing a classroom with diverse backgrounds requires strong communication and adaptability. To address these challenges, instructors typically use a combination of hands-on demonstrations, clear instructions, and individualized coaching. Additionally, fostering a supportive learning environment helps students feel comfortable asking questions and making progress at their own pace.

What is the difference between Cdl Instructor vs Truck Driver?

AspectCdl InstructorTruck Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Instructor CertificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining schools, classrooms, driving rangesOn the road, freight yards, delivery routes
Employer & Industry UsageTraining institutions, trucking schoolsTransportation companies, freight carriers

While both roles require a CDL license, a Cdl Instructor focuses on teaching and training new drivers in a classroom or controlled environment, whereas a Truck Driver operates commercial vehicles on the road for transportation and delivery. The instructor role emphasizes education and safety training, while the driver role emphasizes logistics and operational skills.

What is a CDL instructor?

CDL Instructors are professional trainers who teach students how to safely operate commercial motor vehicles, such as trucks and buses, in order to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). They provide both classroom instruction on regulations, safety, and vehicle systems, as well as hands-on training behind the wheel. CDL Instructors are responsible for preparing students to pass written and skills exams required by state and federal agencies. Their role is crucial in ensuring new drivers are competent and compliant with transportation laws.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CDL instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CDL Instructor, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), extensive driving experience, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial vehicle operation, Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, and training aids or simulators is essential. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are key soft skills for effectively teaching diverse learners. These skills ensure that future commercial drivers are trained safely and competently, supporting public safety and regulatory compliance.
More about Cdl Instructor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cdl Instructor jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Cdl Instructor jobs in Tennessee are:
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What job categories do people searching Cdl Instructor jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Cdl Instructor jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Cdl Instructor jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Cdl Instructor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cdl Instructor jobs in TN? For Cdl Instructor jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cdl Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cdl Instructor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,912 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Part Time CDL Instructor (Workforce and Continuing Education)

TNBR Careers

Columbia, TN • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Columbia State is looking for Part-Time CDL Instructors!

Share your experience and train the next generation of CDL Drivers. No administrative work, just teaching.

  • Competitive hourly pay: $30-$40  an hour
  • Perfect for retirees or semi-retired drivers
  • Contract-based employment

Job Purpose

This position is responsible for delivering high-quality, hands-on and classroom instruction to students of the Commercial Driver License (CDL) Program. This role is focused exclusively on instruction and student skill development, with administrative, compliance, and program management functions assigned to full-time staff.

Essential Functions

  • Deliver classroom, range, and road instruction in accordance with FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards and program curriculum.
  • Provide clear, consistent instruction on safe vehicle operation, inspection procedures, and CDL exam preparation.
  • Evaluate student performance and provide timely, constructive feedback to support skill development and program completion.
  • Maintain accurate daily attendance records and basic student progress documentation.
  • Ensure all training activities are conducted in a safe manner and in compliance with applicable regulations and institutional policies.
  • Conduct pre-trip, range, and road demonstrations aligned with CDL testing standards.
  • Assist students in preparing for testing required for CDL licensure.
  • Communicate regularly with program leadership regarding student progress, concerns, or instructional needs.
  • Support a positive learning environment that promotes student confidence, retention, and success.

Supplemental Functions

  • Participate in occasional instructor meetings or training sessions.
  • Assist with occasional skills testing days or program events as needed.

Education, Training, and Experience Required

  • Unrestricted Class A CDL license (required)
  • Minimum of 2 years of recent CDL driving experience
  • Prior teaching, training, or mentoring experience preferred but not required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Strong knowledge of commercial driving regulations and safe driving practices
  • Ability to effectively teach and demonstrate CDL skills to adult learners
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to provide clear instruction and constructive feedback
  • Commitment to safety, compliance, and student success
  • Ability to work independently in an instructional setting

Working Conditions

  • Flexible, part-time schedule based on program needs (daytime, evening, or weekend hours available)
  • Significant time spent outdoors in various weather conditions
  • Regular use of CDL vehicles for instruction and demonstration

Have questions? Email us at WorkforceDev@ColumbiaState.edu

Apply