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

Drivers Education Instructor information

See Salem, OR salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do drivers education instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for drivers 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 drivers education instructor?

Drivers Education Instructors are professionals who teach individuals how to drive safely and responsibly. They provide both classroom instruction on traffic laws, road safety, and defensive driving techniques, as well as behind-the-wheel training in a vehicle. Their goal is to prepare students to pass the driving test and become competent, safe drivers. Instructors are usually certified and must meet specific state requirements to teach driver's education.

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

To thrive as a Drivers Education Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of traffic laws, safe driving practices, and a valid instructor certification or teaching license. Familiarity with driving simulators, instructional vehicles equipped with dual controls, and digital learning platforms is highly valuable. Patience, clear communication, and the ability to calmly manage stressful situations are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure effective teaching, student safety, and confident, competent new drivers on the road.

What are some common challenges drivers education instructors face when teaching new drivers, and how can they address them?

Drivers Education Instructors often encounter challenges such as nervous or anxious students, varying learning paces, and language or communication barriers. To address these, instructors use patience, clear communication, and adaptive teaching techniques to ensure every student feels comfortable and supported. They also emphasize safety, provide constructive feedback, and may adjust lesson plans to match individual needs. Building trust and maintaining a calm demeanor are key to helping students gain confidence behind the wheel.

What is the difference between Drivers Education Instructor vs Driving School Instructor?

AspectDrivers Education InstructorDriving School Instructor
Required CredentialsDriver's education certification, state licensingDriver's education certification, state licensing
Work EnvironmentClassroom settings, behind-the-wheel trainingClassroom and behind-the-wheel instruction at driving schools
Employer & IndustrySchools, government programs, private companiesDriving schools, private training centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Drivers Education Instructors and Driving School Instructors require similar certifications and work environments, focusing on teaching new drivers either in classrooms or behind the wheel. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Driving School Instructor' is often used interchangeably but may refer specifically to instructors employed by private driving schools. Understanding these roles helps prospective instructors identify the right employment opportunities in driver education.

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

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

Infographic showing various Drivers Education Instructor job openings in Salem, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,985 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Instructor PT Non-Exempt Gen Ed

Institute of Technology

Salem, OR • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 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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