Position Summary
The Training Director is responsible for the design, implementation, and oversight of the company's driver training and safety education programs across all terminals and remote locations. This role leads a geographically dispersed training team, ensures full compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, and builds a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives under pressure, manages competing priorities throughout the day, and keeps both staff and student drivers engaged, motivated, and set up for long-term success.
Minimum Qualifications
- Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) with a verifiable minimum of 5 years of safe, on-road driving experience.
- Master's Degree required (Education, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, Transportation/Logistics, or related field preferred).
- Clean MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) and satisfactory background check consistent with FMCSA and company standards.
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience in a training, driver development, or safety leadership role within trucking/transportation.
- Minimum 3+ years of proven management/supervisory experience required, including hiring, performance management, and leading teams (remote team management experience strongly preferred).
- In-depth, fluent working knowledge of FMCSA regulations, Hours of Service (HOS), CSA/BASIC scoring, DOT compliance, and driver qualification file requirements.
- Demonstrated experience building, writing, and structuring training curricula and instructional materials from the ground up (not just delivering existing programs) required.
- Certified Trainer credentials (e.g., PTDI, CDS, or equivalent) a plus, or willingness to obtain within a defined timeframe.
- Ability to travel nationally on a regular basis to support terminals, training sites, and remote teams
- Preferred Qualifications
- Experience managing a remote or hybrid team across multiple states or regions.
- Background in curriculum design or adult learning theory.
- Familiarity with ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) requirements and Training Provider Registry (TPR) reporting.Core Responsibilities
- Build, develop, standardize, and continuously improve national driver training curricula, onboarding programs, and remedial/re-training programs from the ground up.
- Lead, manage, and support a team of trainers and training staff across multiple locations remotely, providing clear direction, accountability, and consistent communication.
- Build a strong sense of teamwork and shared purpose among a dispersed staff, fostering collaboration across regions and departments.
- Ensure all training programs and materials remain fully aligned with current FMCSA guidelines, DOT regulations, and evolving industry safety standards.
- Monitor and evaluate trainer performance and student outcomes; provide coaching, corrective action, and professional development as needed.
- Serve as a hands-on problem solver, addressing day-to-day operational issues, scheduling conflicts, and “personal fires” as they arise across the training network.
- Manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously in a fast-paced, constantly shifting environment; comfortable with frequent context-switching and unplanned challenges.
- Drive student engagement and retention by creating an interactive, supportive, and motivating learning environment, both in person and through virtual/remote instruction.
- Track and report on training KPIs, completion rates, safety incidents, and compliance metrics to senior leadership.
- Utilize learning management systems (LMS), scheduling software, spreadsheets, and reporting tools to manage program data and communicate results.
- Partner with Safety, Recruiting, and Operations departments to align training initiatives with broader company goals.
- Conduct periodic ride-alongs, site visits, and audits to verify training quality and regulatory compliance in the field.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, technology, and best practices in adult learning and driver development.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong Leadership Skills – proven ability to lead, motivate, and hold accountable a team working across different locations and time zones.
- Strong Work Ethic – self-directed, reliable, and willing to put in the effort required to keep programs running smoothly.
- Problem-Solving – quick, practical decision-making under pressure; able to resolve issues before they escalate.
- Multitasking – skilled at juggling multiple responsibilities, projects, and unexpected issues in the same day without losing focus.
- Thrives on Challenges – energized by a dynamic workday and comfortable operating without a fixed routine.
- Excellent Computer Skills – proficient with Microsoft Office/Google Workspace, LMS platforms, ELD/telematics systems, and reporting software.
- Communication – clear, professional verbal and written communication with staff, drivers, and executive leadership.
- Student & Staff Engagement – ability to keep trainees and team members engaged, motivated, and invested in their own development.
- Regulatory Fluency – deep, practical command of FMCSA rules and the ability to translate regulations into clear, actionable training content.
- Adaptability – comfortable managing change, shifting priorities, and evolving compliance requirements.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to travel extensively (up to 25% or more) by air and road to training sites nationwide.
- Ability to sit, stand, and operate a commercial motor vehicle for extended periods during training ride-alongs and evaluations.
- Ability to work extended or non-traditional hours as business needs require, including occasional evenings or weekends to support remote staff across time zones.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience managing a remote or hybrid team across multiple states or regions.
- Background in curriculum design or adult learning theory.
- Familiarity with ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) requirements and Training Provider Registry (TPR) reporting.
- Bilingual capabilities a plus.
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the role. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Pay: $60,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- CDL A driving : 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
