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Cdl Program Director Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CDL Instructor

Columbia, TN · On-site

$46.84K - $56.21K/yr

The CDL Instructor is responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering training and ... Director of Workforce and Continuing Education to report on program operations and identify ...

CDL Driver Trainer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The CDL Driver Trainer works under the guidance and supervision of the Director of Education, Program Director, Lead Trainer, or their designee. Key Responsibilities * Promotes and Maintains a ...

CDL Driver Trainer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The CDL Driver Trainer works under the guidance and supervision of the Director of Education, Program Director, Lead Trainer, or their designee. Key Responsibilities * Promotes and Maintains a ...

One year of CDL A Tanker experience within the last 3 years OR 3 years of CDL A Tanker experience within the last 10 years * Tanker and Hazmat Endorsement and TWIC Card - or willing to obtain TWIC ...

NON CDL Drivers * Home Daily * Start time 6:00AM * Starting pay is $19/hour/ Plus OT * Touch ... Weekly Pay with Direct Deposit * 1 Week Paid Vacation After 1 Year * Holiday Pay after 6 Months

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 ...

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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Cdl Program Director information

See Tennessee salary details

$39.9K

$57.2K

$66.7K

How much do cdl program director jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cdl program director in Tennessee is $57,229.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,400.00 and $59,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a CDL Program Director, you need in-depth knowledge of commercial driver training, regulatory compliance, and program management, usually backed by relevant industry experience and sometimes a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, and commercial vehicle operation tools is typical. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster effective instruction and maintain program standards. These skills ensure the program runs efficiently, remains compliant, and produces well-trained, safe commercial drivers.

What are some common challenges faced by CDL Program Directors in managing training programs, and how can they be addressed?

CDL Program Directors often face challenges such as maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations, ensuring high training standards, and managing instructor schedules. Balancing administrative duties with student needs can be demanding, especially as regulations or technology evolve. Successful directors address these challenges by staying updated on regulatory changes, fostering open communication with instructors, and implementing efficient scheduling and record-keeping systems. Building strong relationships with local employers can also help align training with industry needs and improve job placement outcomes for graduates.

What are CDL Program Directors?

CDL Program Directors are professionals responsible for overseeing commercial driver’s license (CDL) training programs, typically at educational institutions or private training schools. They manage curriculum development, instructor supervision, regulatory compliance, and student enrollment processes. Their main goal is to ensure the program meets state and federal requirements while preparing students for successful careers as commercial drivers. Program directors often collaborate with industry partners and stay updated on transportation regulations to keep the program relevant and effective.

What is the difference between Cdl Program Director vs Cdl Instructor?

AspectCdl Program DirectorCdl Instructor
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), teaching certification, management experienceCDL, teaching certification, driving experience
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, training program oversightClassroom and behind-the-wheel training
Employer & Industry UsageTraining schools, vocational colleges, trucking companiesDriving schools, vocational colleges, trucking companies
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on program management and curriculum developmentFocuses on direct instruction and driver training

The main difference is that a Cdl Program Director oversees the entire CDL training program, including curriculum and compliance, while a Cdl Instructor directly trains students on driving skills. Both roles require CDL credentials, but the Program Director also needs management experience, whereas the Instructor focuses on teaching driving techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Cdl Program Director jobs in Tennessee? For Cdl Program Director jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cdl Program Director jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Cdl Program Director jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Cdl Program Director jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Cdl Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Cdl Program Director job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $57,229 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
CDL Instructor

CDL Instructor

TNBR Careers

Columbia, TN • On-site

$46.84K - $56.21K/yr

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The CDL Instructor is responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering training and instruction for the Commercial Driver License (CDL) program.

This is a full time, 12-month, position located on the Columbia, TN Campus. 

Essential Functions

  • Plan, coordinate, and oversee the CDL program, providing instruction as needed.
  • Participate in recruitment activities at local and regional schools in alignment with the Workforce and Continuing Education Marketing Plan.
  • Schedule and manage training for on-site students, and oversee scheduling, staffing, and observation of training conducted at external partner locations.
  • Coordinate with an approved mechanic to ensure all CDL program vehicles receive required routine, annual, and corrective maintenance.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records and ensure timely completion of all required FMCSA reporting as well as internal documentation.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain an internal ELDT course to replace the current vendor-provided online version.
  • Represent the CDL program during annual Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reviews, ensuring compliance with all program standards and addressing any findings or recommendations.
  • Serve as the primary college liaison for CDL-related industry partnerships.
  • Maintain all required program certifications, accreditations, and licensures, as well as a clean driving record.
  • Assist in the selection, evaluation, supervision, and support of temporary and part-time CDL instructors or instructional assistants.
  • Support marketing and outreach efforts with business and industry partners to build and sustain a consistent student and customer base.
  • Maintain regular communication with the Director of Workforce and Continuing Education to report on program operations and identify opportunities to improve quality and efficiency.
  • Support the development and oversight of programs and services that promote enrollment growth, student progression, retention, and successful completion within the service area.

Supplemental Functions

  • Support all WCE activities
  • Serve on college committees as directed 

Education, Training, and Experience Required

  • Unrestricted Class A CDL license
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience with CDL driving

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken English.
  • Ability to establish, coordinate, and implement independent management decisions.
  • Ability to effectively use information technology, including Microsoft Office and related applications.
  • Ability to relate to diverse faculty, staff, students, and the public.
  • Ability to balance workload with multiple tasks.
  • Ability to work without direct supervision.
  • Ability to analyze, evaluate, and take appropriate action.

Working Conditions

  • Normal work week of 37.5 hours – 7:45 am – 4:15 pm Monday through Friday. Evening and weekend hours as required.
  • Visual and hand usage for personal computers.
  • Working outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Driving CDL trucks as needed.

Hiring Salary Range: $46,840 - $56,210

This position is based at the Columbia, TN Campus.

About Columbia State Community College:

As Tennessee’s first community college (established in 1966), Columbia State is committed to student success both in and out of the classroom, as well as economic and community development in our nine-county service area. Columbia State is a member of the Tennessee Board of Regents.  

Columbia State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:

  • Vacation and Sick Leave
  • 14 paid holidays
  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • Retirement plans
  • Optional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation Plans
  • Educational benefits for the employee and their spouse and dependents

Columbia State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities.
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies:
Executive Director of Human Resources
humanresources@columbiastate.edu
1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401
931-540-2501