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Cdl Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Cdl Program Director information

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$44K

$63.1K

$73.5K

How much do cdl program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for cdl program director in the United States is $63,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
More about Cdl Program Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Cdl Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Cdl Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cdl Program jobs? The most popular types of Cdl Program jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Cdl Program Director jobs? The top employers for Cdl Program Director jobs are:
What states have the most Cdl Program Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Cdl Program Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cdl Program Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 48% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $63,054 per year, or $30.3 per hour.
CDL Driver Apprentice

CDL Driver Apprentice

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Williston, VT

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Overview

The CDL Driver Apprentice will obtain a Commercial Driving Permit and complete the Federally required CDL instruction and training to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle providing service to customers in their respective Line of Business (LOB) while working alongside a knowledgeable Casella Waste Driver Trainer. The incumbent will continue in the apprentice role until all training requirements are completed and they have passed the CDL licensing exam and road test.

Are you ready to begin your career as a Casella Driver and commit to the successful completion of a CDL program? Casella will cover all costs associated with the training program and provide you an onboarding and cultural experience at our Home Office in Rutland, VT, where the company was founded in 1975!

Drivers at Casella participate in a Career Pathways Program that offers exceptional Advancement Opportunity, Regular Merit Increases, and Safety Bonus Incentives.

Starting hourly rate for this position is $23- $25 per hour.


Responsibilities

  • Performs pre/post trip inspections of assigned vehicle in accordance with Casella safety standards as well as state and federal regulations; ensures all safety equipment and devices are operational and secured properly in vehicle; maintains appearance of truck in accordance with company standards.
  • Performs and exhibits dedication to safe operation of roll rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks on streets, highways, customer sites, and construction sites.
  • Provides a distinguishably different level of service through courteous interactions with all customers and provides service in a timely manner; exhibits a positive attitude towards company, customer and municipal goals.
  • Follows route assignments and completes end of day documentation; completes all assigned company and federally mandated paperwork accurately.
  • Completes assigned route sheet for one Line of Business (LOB); empties all receptacles, places bins serviced at any location back where they were picked up in the upright position and cleans area around accidental waste spills.
  • Attends and participates in all scheduled training programs and meetings as required by Casella or Manager.
  • Notifies Dispatch immediately of any customer requests, service interruptions, incidents, accidents, property damage, or unsafe situations.
  • Always exhibits an ability to be observant and aware of surroundings and is mindful of all laborers on the truck and demonstrates an ability to use problem solving skills.
  • Assists driver with all backing maneuvers while on route.
  • Participates in training and other learning opportunities to expand knowledge of the company, products, sales and services and performs any other duties needed to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and/or abide by our core values.

Career Path Definitions & Distinctions

Apprentice: Completes training for Helper safety (Rear Load Residential), customer service training and required training to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle while providing service to customers in their line of business. Obtains CDL Permit.
Class I Driver: Demonstrates the ability to complete assigned route sheet for 1 Line of Business as well as ability to complete tasks necessary as to one of the following: Rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks.
Class II Driver: Demonstrates the ability to complete assigned route sheet for 2 Lines of Business as well as ability to complete tasks necessary as to two of the following: Rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks. Shows a development of improvement of communication skills with customers and coworkers. Exhibits evidence of increased knowledge of the company and industry. Illustrates an ability to be a mentor to new employees.
Class III Driver: Demonstrates the ability to complete assigned route sheet for 3 Lines of Business as well as ability to complete tasks necessary as to three of the following: Rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks. Demonstrates an increased effort of providing positive contributions to the community on behalf of the community. Displays a capability to participate in training and development of new employees.
Lead Driver: Demonstrates the ability to develop driver training plans and coach employees to achieve successful outcomes. Exhibits the ability to complete assigned route sheets for all lines of business. Provides courteous customer service and communicates professionally with. Actively participates in the company’s progress with the career paths program and helps drivers to move up in their careers.


Qualifications

The successful candidate will have a High School Diploma or GED, must be at least 18 years of age, hold a state issued standard CDL Driver’s Class B permit with air brake endorsement or has the ability to get one within 6 months and must be legally eligible to work in the United States. The physical ability to handle objects more than 50lbs is expected frequently throughout the day and work under many different weather conditions is expected. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, effective listening and problem-solving skills, and dedication to providing excellent customer service is desired. It is also important that the candidate has demonstrated the ability to work as part of a team in a collaborative environment.

This position requires successful completion of pre-employment testing, including a drug screen.