Defensive Driving Instructor Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

The CDL Instructor delivers classroom, range, and behind-the-wheel instruction for the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training and certification program at the Goodwill Career & Technical Academy. Through engaging instruction, coaching, and hands-on training, the instructor prepares students to safely operate commercial vehicles, successfully earn their Commercial Driver's License, and pursue rewarding careers in the transportation industry.

The instructor is also responsible for maintaining a safe and compliant training environment, monitoring student progress, completing required documentation, and supporting program operations to ensure a high-quality learning experience and successful student outcomes.

*NOTE- This is a contract position with an immediate start. The regular instructional schedule is Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Role and Responsibilities

• Deliver classroom, simulation, range, and behind-the-wheel instruction that prepares students to successfully meet all requirements for the Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL) Skills Test.
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve instructional materials, lesson plans, and training resources for both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, adapting teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles.
• Instruct students on applicable policies, procedures, and safety practices while ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and licensing requirements.
• Monitor student progress, maintain accurate training records, collect required program data and ensure timely, complete documentation in accordance with organizational and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate student schedules and communicate appointment details, arrival expectations, required documentation, and other program requirements with students and case management staff.
• Coordinate the maintenance, repair, and readiness of training vehicles, ensuring rental trucks are operational, repairs are completed promptly, and relevant team members are informed of vehicle status.
• Ensure all vehicles, equipment, and training resources are prepared and available for daily instruction and Department of Public Safety (DPS) skills testing.
• Maintain the CDL training range by ensuring all supplies and equipment—including cones, signage, awnings, safety materials, and other instructional resources—are organized, functional, and adequately stocked.
• Schedule all Department of Public Safety (DPS) skills tests and coordinate driving appointments in accordance with Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) eligibility requirements, including timely scheduling after CLP issuance, communication with students and case managers, and coordination of retesting when necessary.
• Monitor student testing outcomes, maintain required records, and submit all program documentation accurately and on time.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

This position does have supervisory responsibilities 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must hold a valid Commercial Driver License.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of verifiable commercial truck driving experience within the past ten (10) years, with a safe driving record as verified by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
• Thorough knowledge of federal and state regulations governing commercial motor vehicle operations, including applicable FMCSA and Texas CDL requirements.
• Demonstrated knowledge of safe driving practices, defensive driving techniques, and tractor-trailer operation.
• Ability to successfully pass a criminal background check and maintain a driving record that meets organizational, insurance, and regulatory requirements. Candidates must have no disqualifying driver-related convictions within the previous five (5) years and no felony or fraud-related convictions that would prevent employment or certification.
• Minimum of one (1) year of instructional, training, coaching, or vocational education experience preferred; experience teaching adults in a classroom and/or hands-on training environment is strongly preferred.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• One (1) year of vocational education tractor-trailer driver teaching or driver trainer experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a non-climate-controlled environment.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel and twist for 8 hours. 
• Ability to lift 35 pounds frequently. 
• While performing the duties of this job, the employees is regularly required to talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone. 
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work. 
• Regular, predictable attendance is required as business demands dictate.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Goodwill Central Texas is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all Team Members. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Background Check Requirement:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check. This may include verification of employment history, education, criminal background, and other information relevant to the position.

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