CDL Driver Trainer

H & L Charter is an award winning, family owned and operated ground transportation company located in Ontario, CA. Our family has been transporting the Inland Empire and Southern California communities for over 40 years - schools, youth organizations, corporations, colleges & universities, senior excursions, fundraisers, special events, churches, travel & tour operators and so many more. H & L Charter believes in Safety & Service and all of our team members are dedicated to providing our clients with the best possible experience.

Position Summary:

H & L Charter is seeking a qualified and experienced School Bus/SPAB Driver Trainer to join our team. This individual will be responsible for delivering comprehensive training, coaching, evaluation, and certification programs for both new and existing charter/SPAB (School Pupil Activity Bus) drivers. The Driver Trainer ensures all drivers meet company standards and comply with applicable regulations, including those set by the Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), California Highway Patrol (CHP), and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

In addition to promoting safety, customer service, and operational excellence, the Driver Trainer plays a critical role in fostering a culture of professionalism and compliance. This position also supports ongoing safety improvements, compliance monitoring, and contributes to the overall efficiency of the transportation operation.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct hands-on, behind-the-wheel training for charter/SPAB drivers.

Facilitate classroom instruction covering safety practices, DOT/FMCSA regulations, Title 13 CCR, hours-of-service, defensive driving, emergency procedures, passenger safety, vehicle inspection, and company policies. 

Administer and evaluate road tests, pre-trip inspections, driving skills, and emergency evacuation drills for both new and current drivers. 

Monitor driver performance using direct observation, dash cameras, ELDs, GPS tools, and ride-alongs; provide feedback, coaching, and remedial training as necessary.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date training records, certifications, DMV pull notices, and CHP-required documentation.

Coordinate training schedules, vehicles, materials, and resources in collaboration with the Operations Team.

Assist in onboarding and orientation of driver applicants.

Support certification and re-certification processes, including SPAB proficiency and safety drills.

Review and investigate incidents and complaints, administering appropriate follow-up training and documentation.

Participate in internal and external meetings and training (e.g., Safety Committee, CBA, ABA).

Assist in performance evaluations and disciplinary actions by providing observations, reports, and recommendations.

Promote and uphold a safety-first, compliant, and professional culture among the driving staff.

Stay informed of changes to transportation laws, safety regulations, and compliance policies; effectively communicate updates to the team.

Operate and manage various technology platforms such as Google Drive, ELD systems, GPS/mapping tools, and dash cams.

Adhere to company policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Driver Manual.

Ensure punctuality, reliability, and professionalism in all aspects of the role.

Perform other related duties as assigned by the President.

Requirements

Licensing & Certifications

Valid California Commercial Driver’s License (Class A or B) with Passenger (P) and School Bus/SPAB (S) endorsementsC

Current Medical Examiner’s Certificate

CA State Department of Education School Bus Driver/SPAB Instructor Certificate

CPR and First Aid Certification 

Experience

Minimum 3–5 years of experience operating a school bus/SPAB vehicle

Prior experience as a certified trainer or instructor 

Supervisory or management experience 

Skills & Abilities

Fluent in spoken and written English; able to read, write, and communicate clearly with supervisors, coworkers, and clients

Ability to interpret maps, routes, schedules, and written instructions

Basic math skills for estimating trip durations, scheduling, and driver hours

Strong leadership and mentoring abilities with the capacity to coach, train, and provide constructive feedback

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to instruct adult learners effectively

High attention to detail and ability to maintain confidentiality

Ability to lift up to 35 pounds

Correctable eyesight and hearing

Basic mechanical understanding of fleet vehicle operations

Excellent organizational and recordkeeping skills

Ability to work independently and manage multiple training schedules

Technology Proficiency

Skilled in using Google Drive, email, internet applications, ELD systems, route optimization tools, dash cameras, and digital mapping systems

Other Requirements

Valid right-to-work identification

Two (2) letters of recommendation

Pay & Benefits

$30-35 per hour, based on experience, certificates held

401 K with 4% Match

Medical / Dental / Vision / Life Insurance

Holiday / Vacation / Sick Time