The Driver Trainer is responsible for developing, delivering, and evaluating training programs for drivers operating motorcoach, school bus, shuttle, and other commercial passenger transportation vehicles. This position ensures drivers are properly trained, qualified, and compliant with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. The Driver Trainer provides classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, coaching, and performance evaluations to support safe, reliable, and customer-focused transportation services.
The Driver Trainer works closely with Operations, Safety, Human Resources, and Maintenance to promote a culture of safety, improve driver performance, reduce accidents, and support employee development and retention.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
New Hire Training and Onboarding
-
Conduct new driver orientation and onboarding programs.
-
Deliver classroom and hands-on training related to company policies, safety procedures, customer service expectations, and operational requirements.
-
Train drivers on vehicle operation, route familiarization, defensive driving techniques, and emergency procedures.
-
Evaluate driver readiness and recommend qualification for independent service.
-
Ensure all required onboarding and training documentation is completed accurately.
Behind-the-Wheel Training
-
Conduct road training and skills assessments for new and existing drivers.
-
Evaluate vehicle handling, passenger management, route adherence, and safety performance.
-
Provide coaching and corrective instruction to improve driver performance.
-
Train drivers on proper pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
-
Conduct route certification and familiarization training as required.
Safety and Compliance Training
-
Deliver ongoing safety training programs and refresher courses.
-
Ensure compliance with DOT, FMCSA, state school bus regulations, and company requirements.
-
Conduct remedial training following accidents, incidents, complaints, or policy violations.
-
Educate drivers on defensive driving, distracted driving prevention, fatigue management, and passenger safety.
-
Support drug and alcohol awareness and regulatory compliance initiatives.
Driver Performance Monitoring
-
Conduct ride-alongs, field observations, and performance evaluations.
-
Monitor driver safety trends and identify opportunities for improvement.
-
Provide documented coaching and follow-up training plans.
-
Collaborate with Operations and Safety teams regarding driver performance concerns.
-
Assist in determining driver eligibility for continued service assignments.
Training Program Administration
-
Maintain accurate training records and driver qualification documentation.
-
Track training completion, certifications, and regulatory requirements.
-
Assist in developing and updating training materials, manuals, and standard operating procedures.
-
Prepare reports regarding training activities, compliance status, and driver performance metrics.
-
Support audits and regulatory inspections as needed.
Recruitment and Workforce Development Support
-
Participate in recruiting events, job fairs, and CDL training initiatives.
-
Assist with driver candidate assessments and pre-employment evaluations.
-
Support employee development and career progression programs.
-
Mentor new drivers throughout their probationary and qualification periods.
Qualifications:
Education
-
High school diploma or GED required.
-
Associate's degree in Transportation, Education, Safety, Business, or related field preferred.
Experience
-
Minimum 3 years of commercial driving experience in motorcoach, school bus, transit, shuttle, or passenger transportation operations.
-
Previous training, coaching, mentoring, or instructional experience preferred.
-
Strong safety and customer service record required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
-
Extensive knowledge of commercial passenger transportation operations.
-
Knowledge of DOT, FMCSA, state school bus regulations, and industry safety standards.
-
Strong presentation, facilitation, and coaching skills.
-
Ability to evaluate driver performance objectively and provide constructive feedback.
-
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
-
Strong organizational and documentation skills.
-
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and training management systems.
Certifications Preferred
-
Valid CDL with Passenger Endorsement required.
-
School Bus Endorsement preferred (if supporting school bus operations).
-
Certified Driver Trainer or equivalent transportation training certification preferred.
-
Smith System Instructor, Defensive Driving Instructor, or similar certification preferred.
-
Current DOT medical certification.
