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Driver Education Instructor Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

Driver Education Instructor information

See Salem, OR salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do driver education instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for driver education instructor in Salem, OR is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a driver education instructor?

A Driver Education Instructor is a professional who teaches individuals how to operate motor vehicles safely and responsibly. They provide both classroom instruction on traffic laws, road safety, and defensive driving techniques, as well as behind-the-wheel training to help students develop practical driving skills. Driver Education Instructors work with new drivers, often teenagers, but may also assist adults or those seeking specialized licenses. Their goal is to prepare students to pass driving exams and become safe, competent drivers.

What is the role of a driver education instructor?

The responsibilities of a driver education instructor include teaching a drivers ed class and preparing students to pass a driver’s license exam. Your duties in this career consist of teaching driving principles and rules of the road in a classroom and taking the students out in a car to practice driving. Your job details may vary depending on who you are training. You may work with young, new drivers who are learning to operate an automobile for the first time, or you may work with truck or bus drivers or provide instruction on operation and safety for emergency vehicle drivers.

How does a driver education instructor typically collaborate with students and parents throughout the training process?

As a Driver Education Instructor, you will have frequent interactions with both students and their parents. Instructors often provide progress updates, address concerns, and offer guidance on practicing driving skills outside of scheduled lessons. Open communication is essential, as it helps reinforce safe driving habits and ensures that students are well-prepared for both the written and practical licensing exams. Establishing a supportive environment encourages students to ask questions and gain confidence behind the wheel.

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

To thrive as a Driver Education Instructor, you need a valid driver’s license, in-depth knowledge of traffic laws, and often a specialized instructor certification or teaching credential. Familiarity with simulators, classroom presentation tools, and state-approved curriculum materials is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and strong observational skills help instructors connect with students and provide constructive feedback. These skills ensure students learn safe driving practices, understand legal requirements, and build confidence on the road.

What is the difference between Driver Education Instructor vs Driver Training Instructor?

AspectDriver Education InstructorDriver Training Instructor
Required CredentialsState-specific driver education certification, teaching licenseDriver training certification, sometimes additional instructor credentials
Work EnvironmentClassroom settings, driving simulators, on-road instruction with studentsOn-road driving lessons, behind-the-wheel training with learners
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, driving academies, DMV-approved programsDriving schools, private training companies, DMV-approved programs

Driver Education Instructors and Driver Training Instructors both prepare learners to drive safely, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference lies in their focus: Driver Education Instructors typically teach classroom theory and basic driving skills, while Driver Training Instructors focus on hands-on behind-the-wheel training. Both roles are essential in driver safety education and are often employed by the same organizations.

How do driving schools pay their driver education instructors?

Driving schools typically pay driver education instructors through hourly wages, flat session rates, or salaries, depending on the school's policies. Compensation may also include benefits or bonuses, and instructors often need to hold specific certifications or licenses. Payment schedules can be weekly, biweekly, or monthly based on the employer's arrangements.

Is there still a high demand for driver education instructors?

Driver education instructors are in steady demand due to ongoing driver training needs and licensing requirements. Employment opportunities can vary by region and often depend on state regulations, with certifications and classroom or behind-the-wheel teaching skills being essential. Overall, the job remains a stable option within the transportation and education sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Driver Education Instructor jobs in Salem, OR?

For Driver Education Instructor jobs in Salem, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Driver Education Instructor jobs in Salem, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Driver Education Instructor jobs in Salem, OR are:

What cities near Salem, OR are hiring for Driver Education Instructor jobs?

Cities near Salem, OR with the most Driver Education Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Driver Education Instructor job openings in Salem, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,251 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Instructor PT Non-Exempt Gen Ed

Salem, OR • On-site

Institute of Technology
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

 

JOB DESCRIPTION 

 

Job Title:          General Education Instructor  - Part Time

Reports To:       Director of Education and/or Program Director  

FLSA: Part-time Hourly (OnSite - Salem, Oregon)

                         

DEFINITION:   

Under the immediate supervision of the Director of Education and Program Director, the General Education Instructor provides instruction to classes in the PMA or LPN program. This includes delivering student-centered, hands-on, active instruction. The General Education Instructor is a part-time employee of the Institute of Technology and may assume other assignments within the Institute.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:  

The General Education Instructor must have a passion for teaching and assisting their team in developing exceptional educational methodologies.  

SAMPLES OF DUTIES:  

The information listed below is intended as examples of job duties and responsibilities for positions in this classification. This list is neither inclusive nor exclusive, but indicative of several types of duties performed: 

  • Prepare lesson plans and teach course load per college/school/department policy and procedures
  • Assist with the review, revision, and creation of materials for use in instruction as part of the course load
  • Implement and adhere to an approved Master Course syllabus for each course taught
  •   Evaluate the performance of students regarding course objectives and make necessary provisions to meet learning needs.
  • Maintain student grades in accordance with established policies. Prepare final grades at the end of each semester to update student records and transcripts.  
  • Prepare and maintain classroom or/and /orlab facilities

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Possession of a Master's degree in a related field from a college or university accredited by the US Department of Education
  • A minimum of 15 credits in the subject taught (e.g., Algebra, English, Psychology, Ethics, Speech, etc.)
  • Strong communication, organization, interpersonal, problem-solving, and counseling skills.
  • Able to work independently and coordinate work with colleagues and peers.           
  • Able to travel, as needed.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS

  • An advanced degree in a related field and experience teaching at the college or university level

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Work inside is protected from the weather.
  • Work under constant pressure from deadlines and frequent interruptions.
  • Work effectively in a demanding environment.
  • Work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Noise exposure under 65 decibels, roughly that of an everyday conversation or a ringing telephone.
  • Schedule changes may occur based on business needs.

My signature indicates I fully understand the job description, meet or exceed the minimum qualifications, and am willing to accept responsibility for the duties of the position.

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