Job Description
The CDL Instructor is responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering training and instruction for the Commercial Driver License (CDL) program.
This is a full time, 12-month, position located on the Columbia, TN Campus.
Essential Functions
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee the CDL program, providing instruction as needed.
- Participate in recruitment activities at local and regional schools in alignment with the Workforce and Continuing Education Marketing Plan.
- Schedule and manage training for on-site students, and oversee scheduling, staffing, and observation of training conducted at external partner locations.
- Coordinate with an approved mechanic to ensure all CDL program vehicles receive required routine, annual, and corrective maintenance.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records and ensure timely completion of all required FMCSA reporting as well as internal documentation.
- Develop, implement, and maintain an internal ELDT course to replace the current vendor-provided online version.
- Represent the CDL program during annual Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reviews, ensuring compliance with all program standards and addressing any findings or recommendations.
- Serve as the primary college liaison for CDL-related industry partnerships.
- Maintain all required program certifications, accreditations, and licensures, as well as a clean driving record.
- Assist in the selection, evaluation, supervision, and support of temporary and part-time CDL instructors or instructional assistants.
- Support marketing and outreach efforts with business and industry partners to build and sustain a consistent student and customer base.
- Maintain regular communication with the Director of Workforce and Continuing Education to report on program operations and identify opportunities to improve quality and efficiency.
- Support the development and oversight of programs and services that promote enrollment growth, student progression, retention, and successful completion within the service area.
Supplemental Functions
- Support all WCE activities
- Serve on college committees as directed
Education, Training, and Experience Required
- Unrestricted Class A CDL license
- Minimum 5 years’ experience with CDL driving
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken English.
- Ability to establish, coordinate, and implement independent management decisions.
- Ability to effectively use information technology, including Microsoft Office and related applications.
- Ability to relate to diverse faculty, staff, students, and the public.
- Ability to balance workload with multiple tasks.
- Ability to work without direct supervision.
- Ability to analyze, evaluate, and take appropriate action.
Working Conditions
- Normal work week of 37.5 hours – 7:45 am – 4:15 pm Monday through Friday. Evening and weekend hours as required.
- Visual and hand usage for personal computers.
- Working outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Driving CDL trucks as needed.
Hiring Salary Range: $46,840 - $56,210
This position is based at the Columbia, TN Campus.
About Columbia State Community College:
As Tennessee’s first community college (established in 1966), Columbia State is committed to student success both in and out of the classroom, as well as economic and community development in our nine-county service area. Columbia State is a member of the Tennessee Board of Regents.
Columbia State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:
- Vacation and Sick Leave
- 14 paid holidays
- Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
- Retirement plans
- Optional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation Plans
- Educational benefits for the employee and their spouse and dependents

