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Driving Instructor Jobs in Yakima, WA (NOW HIRING)

Are you looking for a driving job that respects your time and pays you well? Look no further. At Nichols Trucking, we put our drivers first-with the support, equipment, and home time you deserve. We ...

Are you looking for a driving job that respects your time and pays you well? Look no further. At Nichols Trucking, we put our drivers first-with the support, equipment, and home time you deserve. We ...

Advantages of Driving Blue * Top Performers Earn $85,000-$125,000+ Annually on Dedicated Routes * Over 250 home-time and pay packages are available * Rider and pet permits are available * 401(k) Plan ...

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Driving Instructor information

See Yakima, WA salary details

$6

$21

$39

How much do driving instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for driving instructor in Yakima, WA is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are driving instructors?

Driving instructors are professionals who teach individuals how to safely operate vehicles and prepare them for driving tests. They provide instruction on traffic laws, road safety, and practical driving skills. Driving instructors may work with new drivers, individuals seeking to improve their driving, or those needing specialized training. They assess student progress and tailor lessons to individual needs. Becoming a driving instructor typically requires certification and a valid driver's license.

How much do top driver instructors make?

Top driving instructors can earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of students they teach. Earnings may also include bonuses for high performance or additional certifications, and many work flexible hours to maximize income.

Can you make money as a driving instructor?

Driving instructors can earn income through hourly lessons, with earnings varying based on location, experience, and the number of students. Many instructors work as independent contractors or for driving schools, and income can increase with additional certifications or specialization. However, earnings depend on factors such as demand, hours worked, and local rates.

How quickly can you become a driving instructor?

Becoming a driving instructor typically requires completing a training course that lasts several weeks to a few months, depending on the program and region. Candidates must also obtain relevant licenses or certifications and gain experience as a licensed driver before qualifying as an instructor.

What Do Driving Instructors Do?

Driving instructors teach students how to drive safely and follow traffic laws. As a driving instructor, your job duties include creating lesson plans for classroom instruction, giving students hands-on driving practice, and providing feedback to students on how they can improve. You need strong teaching and communication skills to help your students learn essential driving concepts and methods. Driving instructors usually find jobs teaching first-time drivers who are preparing for their driver’s license test or experienced drivers who want to drive different vehicles, such as motorcycles or commercial vehicles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Driving Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Driving Instructor, you need a thorough understanding of traffic laws, vehicle operation, and teaching techniques, typically supported by a valid instructor's license and a clean driving record. Familiarity with driving simulation tools, dual-control vehicle systems, and learner assessment platforms is also important. Patience, clear communication, and strong interpersonal skills help build student confidence and address learner anxieties. These skills are essential for ensuring students' safety, promoting effective learning, and fostering responsible driving habits.

What is the difference between Driving Instructor vs Driving Examiner?

AspectDriving InstructorDriving Examiner
Required CredentialsDriving Instructor qualification (e.g., ADI license)Driving Examiner qualification (e.g., DVSA certification)
Work EnvironmentTeaching learners in vehicles, driving schools, or on-roadAssessing candidates at testing centers or on-road
Employer & Industry UsageDriving schools, independent instructorsGovernment testing agencies, DVSA
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for career paths in driver trainingRelated to testing and certification process

Driving Instructors focus on teaching learners how to drive and prepare them for driving tests, while Driving Examiners assess and certify candidates' driving skills during official tests. Both roles require specific qualifications and are integral to driver training and licensing processes, but they differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by driving instructors, and how can they be managed?

Driving instructors often encounter students with varying confidence levels and learning speeds, which can make lesson planning and progress tracking a challenge. Additionally, instructors must remain patient and alert while ensuring safety in unpredictable traffic situations. Effective communication, ongoing professional development, and building rapport with students can help manage these challenges. Collaborating with other instructors for support and best practices also contributes to a positive and successful teaching environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a driver trainer?

To become a driving instructor, candidates typically need a valid driving license, relevant driving experience, and completion of a certified instructor training program. Additional requirements may include passing background checks and obtaining an instructor qualification or certification from the appropriate licensing authority.
What are the most commonly searched types of Driving Instructor jobs in Yakima, WA? The most popular types of Driving Instructor jobs in Yakima, WA are:
What job categories do people searching Driving Instructor jobs in Yakima, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Driving Instructor jobs in Yakima, WA are:
What cities near Yakima, WA are hiring for Driving Instructor jobs? Cities near Yakima, WA with the most Driving Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Driving Instructor job openings in Yakima, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,563 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Field Instructor - Electrical Technology Program

Perry Technical Institute

Yakima, WA • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

FIELD INSTRUCTOR
ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Perry Technical Institute is seeking a driven electrical professional to share their industry expertise and help develop the next generation of skilled electricians. As a Field Instructor, you'll work side-by-side with students on real-world installations, coaching safe practices, and troubleshooting in a hands-on learning environment. We provide the training, curriculum, and mentorship needed to support your transition into teaching. With a 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio, you'll have the opportunity to provide a meaningful mentorship and hands-on guidance to every student. Other benefits include a consistent schedule, work-life balance, and a full benefits package (detailed below).
This is a full-time, year-round teaching appointment in the Electrical Technology program. Working hours are Monday through Thursday, 6:20 AM - 4:35 PM. This position will report to the Electrical Administrator and the Electrical Technology Department Head.
This position is responsible for oversight and teaching of student groups during the field training section of the program. Field Instructors work closely with students as they tackle practical challenges and industry-based projects, providing guidance, mentorship, and real-time feedback. The majority of time is spent working alongside students as they complete hands-on projects and develop the technical and professional skills needed for success in the electrical trade. Classroom instruction may also be required as needed to support the Electrical Technology Program.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Duties are performed in a classroom, lab and field. Working effectively and collaboratively in a team environment is a must. Working conditions will align with the career and technical education field as follows:
Career and technical education teachers, especially those in postsecondary schools, teach courses and develop lesson plans. [They will normally work in a building and perform tasks such as word processing, telephone calls, emails, and lecturing. Career and technical educators will also spend time supervising students in a simulated lab environment. Working conditions may also include exposure to outdoor elements by supervising students in field work.]
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Career and Technical Education Teachers, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/career-and-technical-education-teachers.htm (visited July 12, 2020).
This is an exempt, full-time, regular position.
SALARY RANGE: $75,000 - $85,000 Per Year
The job posting includes the expected hiring wage range while the full wage scale for this position can be calculated by starting with the hiring range and increasing the wage three percent annually over the duration of employment. Increase in wages depends on approval of an annual budget and is not guaranteed.
PTI offers a comprehensive benefits package:
  • PTI pays 100% of employees' medical, dental and vision premiums and 60% for qualified dependents
  • Paid Life Flight Network membership
  • Flexible spending plan
  • 401(k) with a 4% match and profit-sharing opportunity
  • Paid sick leave (accrue 4 hours per pay period)
  • 5 paid weeks of scheduled breaks
  • 14 paid holidays
  • 4-day work weeks

This PTI Test Sample Paycheck Calculator may assist in providing an estimated salary after taxes and benefit deductions.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must have three (3) years of related practical work experience in the subject area(s) taught, as required by all faculty teaching technical and occupationally related courses in non-degree program.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and to interface with business and professional constituents.
  • Ability to operate a computer.
  • General journeyman electrician certification - Must qualify to work in ALL types (specialties) of electrical work.
  • Will on occasion be required to drive on behalf of Perry Technical Institute. Employee must possess a working vehicle, hold a valid driver's license, have an acceptable driving record, and produce proof of insurance.
  • Must be willing to consent to a drug test.
  • Must be able to read, speak, and effectively communicate in English.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Certificate of completion from an accredited career school in the subject area(s) taught or associate degree.
  • Previous teaching experience.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to integrate industry scenarios and role playing into instruction.
  • Ability to contribute to curriculum development.
  • Experience with Learning Resource Systems (LRS)

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Maintain compliance at all times with Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 19.28.161 as follows: Under RCW 19.28.161, Washington State allows a modified electrical journeyman-to-trainee ratio for accredited school programs. Accredited public community/technical colleges or non-profit schools can have a 1:4 ratio (one certified electrician to four students) while students are actively working as part of an approved electrical construction program.
  • Responsible for teaching groups of students during their field experience.
  • Teach primarily in a field environment but will at times teach in a hands-on lecture and lab environment.
  • Utilization of effective communication skills when teaching and overseeing students in hands on training.
  • Utilization of strong construction electrical skills including: Conduit sizing/bending EMT and rigid, above and underground installations, circuit tracing, conduit/box fill, and wire sizing.
  • Recognize and acquire necessary materials for specific jobs.
  • May work on aerial platforms, boom and bucket lifts.
  • Must be able to demonstrate and apply NEC knowledge.
  • Will be safety conscious in all aspects of the trade.
  • Grade, assess and document student progress and attendance using Perry Tech's LRS.
  • Provide student advising on progress as per Perry Tech policy.
  • Attend routine department meetings.
  • Attend routine faculty meetings.
  • Participate in various Perry Tech committees as assigned (safety, strategic planning, etc.).
  • Conduct program tours.
  • Attend and participate in Perry Tech "Open House" events.
  • Attend and complete various yearly Perry Tech issued trainings.
  • Participate in course and program development.
  • Remain current in industry through continued education.
  • Interact with other departments in pursuing the institution's goals and objectives, including Enrollment Services and Career Services.
  • Complete and maintain an ongoing professional growth plan.
  • Attend and complete new instructor orientation and training.
  • Perform/organize routine vehicle maintenance to work trucks.
  • Maintain an organized work truck with an inventory of tools and standardized stock of parts/materials.
  • Record detailed time sheets with duties performed and time spent on job.
  • Assist Electrical Administrator with organization of electrical jobs.
  • Responsible for recording student attendance and productivity.
  • Create curriculum to enhance on-the-job learning.
  • Have good attendance and the ability to work well with others.
  • Other duties as assigned.