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Truck Driver Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

CDL Trainer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$22.25 - $28.75/hr

... a Driver Merchandising position. The role requires using effective teaching skills; it also ... Will be required to attend and successfully pass CDL Instructor certification via 3rd Party.

CDL Trainer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$22.25 - $28.75/hr

... a Driver Merchandising position. The role requires using effective teaching skills; it also ... Will be required to attend and successfully pass CDL Instructor certification via 3rd Party.

CDL Trainer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$22.25 - $28.75/hr

... a Driver Merchandising position. The role requires using effective teaching skills; it also ... Will be required to attend and successfully pass CDL Instructor certification via 3rd Party.

CDL Trainer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$62K - $70K/yr

Will be required to attend and successfully pass CDL Instructor certification via 3rd Party ... Able to be certified on manual and powered pallet jacks (includes hand trucks). * Ability to use ...

Truck Driver Instructor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$17

$27

$40

How much do truck driver instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for truck driver instructor in Portland, OR is $27.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.45 and $31.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a truck driver instructor do?

A Truck Driver Instructor is responsible for teaching students how to safely operate commercial trucks and prepare for their commercial driver’s license (CDL) exams. They provide both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, covering topics such as traffic laws, vehicle inspection, and safe driving techniques. Instructors also assess students' progress, ensure they understand safety regulations, and help them develop the skills needed for a career in truck driving.

What are some common challenges truck driver instructors face when training new drivers?

Truck Driver Instructors often encounter challenges such as addressing a wide range of skill levels among students and ensuring all trainees understand and follow safety regulations. Managing nervousness or overconfidence in new drivers can also be demanding, as instructors must balance patience with firm guidance. Additionally, adapting teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of changing industry standards are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Truck Driver Instructor, you need extensive commercial driving experience, a valid CDL, and often an instructor certification or teaching credential. Familiarity with commercial driving simulators, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and current Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is crucial. Excellent communication, patience, and strong interpersonal skills help instructors effectively teach and mentor students from diverse backgrounds. These skills ensure that new drivers are properly trained for safety, compliance, and success on the road.

What is the difference between Truck Driver Instructor vs Truck Driver Trainer?

AspectTruck Driver InstructorTruck Driver Trainer
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), instructor certificationCDL, sometimes instructor certification
Work EnvironmentDriving schools, training centersCompany fleet, training programs
Employer & IndustryDriving schools, vocational institutionsTransportation companies, logistics firms

Truck Driver Instructors primarily teach new drivers in training centers, focusing on classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. Truck Driver Trainers often work within companies, mentoring drivers on the job. While both roles require CDL and instructor certifications, instructors typically work in educational settings, whereas trainers are embedded in corporate fleets. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the trucking industry.

How do you become a truck driver instructor?

To become a truck driver instructor, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with a clean driving record, several years of experience driving large trucks, and often a minimum of one to two years of professional driving. Additionally, many states or companies require completion of a training program or certification in driver instruction, along with good communication skills and knowledge of safety regulations.

Is it worth training as a truck driver instructor?

Training as a truck driver instructor can be valuable for those with extensive driving experience and a desire to teach others, often requiring certification and knowledge of safety regulations. It offers a stable career path with opportunities to work in training centers or transportation companies. The role involves strong communication skills and knowledge of industry standards, making it a worthwhile option for experienced drivers seeking a teaching position.
Infographic showing various Truck Driver Instructor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,770 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

CDL Trainer

swirecc

Wilsonville, OR • On-site

$22.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

What does a CDL Trainer do at Swire Coca-Cola?

This position is responsible for training and preparing individuals to attain their CDL Class A and or B License for a Driver Merchandising position. The role requires using effective teaching skills; it also requires understanding and adhering to state, DOT regulations and Swire Safety policies. This role is responsible for teaching both classroom theory and behind-the-wheel training curriculum.
Responsibilities:

  • Train and prepare candidates to successfully attain CDL-A/B license.
  • Ensure active status and compliance toward the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR).
  • Ensures compliance with regulatory and company policies and procedures.
  • Maintains all records and compliance documents for training program.
  • Responsible for training in-outlet delivery expectations and service standards.
  • Ensures functional handheld computer knowledge of trainees.
  • Manage drivers
  • Staff, train, evaluate and develop team members
  • Maintain positive customer relationships and resolve customer issues
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


Requirements:

  • High School Diploma (or GED) or equivalent certification required
  • Class A CDL License and a clean driving record within MVR guidelines required. CDL license needs to cover both automatic and manual vehicles. required
  • Interstate License required
  • 2+ years’ experience driving a commercial motor vehicle requiring CDL A OR a minimum of two years of experience as a behind-the-wheel commercial motor vehicle instructor required
  • Ability to drive manual transmission preferred
  • Must meet any state qualification requirements for commercial motor vehicle instructors.
  • Must be 21 years of age and legally eligible to work in the United States.
  • Comfortable facilitating training with computer and hands on delivery.
  • Will be required to attend and successfully pass CDL Instructor certification via 3rd Party.
  • Local delivery experience preferred.
  • Ability to operate a manual or powered pallet jack.
  • Ability to work with limited supervision.
  • Able to be certified on manual and powered pallet jacks (includes hand trucks).
  • Ability to use various computer applications including Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with customer, clients and team members