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Cdl Instructor Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

NEXUS LANE LLC

CDL Onboarding Instructor Needed

Aurora, IL

$21.25 - $27.50/hr

if you have at least 10+ years of experience driving a Class A Commercial Motor Vehicle and are ... for an Onboarding Instructor to work part-time (1 or 2 days a week) to work with drivers with ...

NEXUS LANE LLC

CDL Onboarding Instructor Needed

Aurora, IL

$21.25 - $27.50/hr

if you have at least 10+ years of experience driving a Class A Commercial Motor Vehicle and are ... for an Onboarding Instructor to work part-time (1 or 2 days a week) to work with drivers with ...

Hines

CDL Driver

Kirkland, IL

A Brief Overview The CDL Driver I is responsible for the safe, efficient transportation of materials to various job sites and other locations. This role requires maintaining a Class A or B Driver ...

US LBM Holdings, LLC

CDL Driver

Kirkland, IL · On-site

A Brief Overview The CDL Driver I is responsible for the safe, efficient transportation of materials to various job sites and other locations. This role requires maintaining a Class A or B Driver ...

US LBM Holdings LLC

CDL Driver

Kirkland, IL · On-site

A Brief Overview The CDL Driver I is responsible for the safe, efficient transportation of materials to various job sites and other locations. This role requires maintaining a Class A or B Driver ...

Nason's Landscaping

Be Seen First

CDL Driver

Rockford, IL · On-site

$1.0K - $2.5K/wk

* Position: CDL Flatbed Truck Driver * Experience: Minimum 1 year of verified flatbed experience required * Pay: Competitive, based on experience * Schedule: Home daily * Equipment: Well-maintained ...

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All JobsCdl Instructor JobsCdl Instructor Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Cdl Instructor information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do cdl instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdl instructor in DeKalb, IL is $23.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $26.20 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.

Can you make money as a driving instructor?

A CDL instructor can earn income through teaching commercial drivers, with earnings depending on experience, location, and the number of students taught. Many instructors work full-time or part-time, and some may supplement income by offering private lessons or working for driving schools. Certification and a good reputation can also influence earning potential.

How much money do CDL instructors make?

CDL instructors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work full-time schedules and may need certifications such as a commercial driver's license and instructor credentials.

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.

How much do truck driver instructors make in the US?

Truck driver instructors in the US typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often hold commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and may teach at driving schools or training programs, with some earning additional pay for overtime or specialized instruction.

What Does a CDL Instructor Do?

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required for drivers who want to operate trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. A CDL instructor teaches students how to operate these vehicles and pass the CDL exam. In this role, you work with students both in the classroom and on the road. Your job duties focus on teaching them to operate a vehicle safely in a structured area as well as on public roads, and to learn the skills necessary to pass their state’s CDL exam. CDL instructors must earn certification before they begin teaching at a truck driving school or vocational college.

What are the requirements to be a CDL instructor?

To become a CDL instructor, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license with the appropriate endorsements, several years of driving experience, and a clean driving record. Additionally, they often must complete a certified instructor training program and pass a state or federal instructor exam. Some states may also require background checks and CPR certification.

What are CDL Instructors?

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 cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Cdl Instructor jobs? Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Cdl Instructor job openings:
Cdl Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cdl Instructor job openings in DeKalb, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $49,650 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
PT Temporary CDL Instructor

PT Temporary CDL Instructor

Kishwaukee College

Malta, IL • On-site

$25/hr

Temporary

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
PT Temporary CDL Instructor
Job Summary
This is a temporary position established to provide instructional coverage during a leave of absence. The CDL Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality vocational training that prepares students to obtain a Class-A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and enter the trucking and transportation industry. This temporary assignment supports continuity of the Truck Driving Training program and is expected to end when the coverage need concludes.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Build meaningful relationships and collaborate effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
  • Communicate clearly and professionally in both verbal and written formats, tailored to diverse audiences and contexts.
  • Maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information and adhere to FERPA and institutional policies.
  • Manage multiple tasks efficiently, prioritize responsibilities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
  • Proficient in software systems, such as Microsoft Office Suite and basic office equipment; comfortable learning new technologies as needed.
  • Provide exceptional support and assistance to students, staff, and community members with empathy and professionalism.
  • Respond positively to change and adapt to new policies, procedures, and technologies.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision and demonstrate a strong sense of initiative.

Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or a combination of relevant experience, education and training that equates to the required degree.
  • Clean driving record and a valid, and current, Class-A driver's license.
  • Department of Transportation medical card.
  • Minimum of 3 years of over-the-road driving experience or 5 years local driving experience in a commercial tractor trailer combination vehicle.
  • Current Illinois driver abstract.
  • Ability to pass a Department of Transportation medical and drug screening.
  • Ability and knowledge to teach both the classroom portion and hands-on portion of the Truck Driving Training program.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate's degree, or a combination of relevant experience, education and training.
  • Driver training experience in both classroom and behind the wheel environments.

Physical Demands
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 pounds with proper equipment; reasonable accommodations available.
  • Medium physical activity required; must be able to work in an office setting, use standard office equipment, and communicate effectively in various formats.
  • Primarily daytime hours with some evening and weekends to support College events and initiatives.

EOE Statement
Kishwaukee College is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and any reasonable and timely accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act will be made upon documented request by the employee.
Position Status
Temporary
Hours per Week
25
Weeks per Year
31
Budgeted Hours per Year
775
Temporary Position - Begin Date
05/30/2026
Temporary Positions - End Date
12/31/2026
Type of Position
PT Non-Benefited
Hiring Salary Range Requested
$25.00 per hour
Support Staff Pay Band (if applicable)
Support Staff Pay Range (if applicable
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S405P
Number of Vacancies
1
Job Open Date
06/09/2026
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions Summary
Advertising Summary
Posting Link
https://kish.peopleadmin.com/postings/4515
Illustrative Examples of Essential Functions
Job Duty Name
Description of Job Duty
  • Deliver and maintain 160-hour vocational (non-credit) Class-A commercial driver's license (CDL) classes
    • Deliver classroom-based training to prepare students for the Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) exam.
    • Provide training on basic truck operation and truck driving safety procedures.
    • Provide behind-the-wheel driving training on various types of roads
    • Provide behind-the-wheel training on maneuvering and backing in a yard location.
    • Evaluate and grade students throughout the class.
    • Support students during the Class-A CDL exam.
  • Deliver customized truck driving training.
  • Maintain student files, daily logs, equipment logs, and all records in compliance with Illinois Community College Board and Illinois Secretary of State Standards.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Duty?
Yes
Percentage Of Time
100

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