Market Area CDL Driver Trainer

Position Summary

The Market Area Trainer is responsible for educating employees in the safe and efficient operation of company vehicles through classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. This role prepares drivers for specific lines of business, evaluates performance, supports retraining efforts, and ensures compliance with the Smith System 5 Keys defensive driving program. The Market Area Trainer works closely with Operations and Safety leadership to continuously improve driver performance, reduce risk, and promote a strong safety culture across the market.

Hiring Range: $35.00 - $40.00/hr depending on experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Delivers Smith System 5 Keys training through classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction; conducts initial and refresher training, evaluates driver readiness for release, performs route observations, and provides retraining following incidents in coordination with Safety and Operations.
• Trains, road-tests, and coaches Designated Driver Trainers (DDTs), including supporting consistent use of Casella-specific materials and adapting training approaches to different experience levels.
• Supports new drivers throughout onboarding by delivering classroom and on-road training, evaluating performance during the 4-6 week program, and participating in manager release decisions.
• Supports active drivers through refresher training, cross‑training and skill certification across lines of business, and route observations that reinforce safe driving behaviors.
• Provides targeted retraining, route observations, and performance coaching for repeat drivers following incidents.
• Maintains Smith System certification compliance, integrates market risk trends and seasonal hazards into training, communicates incident trends with Safety Managers, and uses market performance metrics and Power BI reporting to inform instruction.
• Leads structured behind-the-wheel training sessions (observation, demonstration, coaching, and feedback drives), coordinates schedules with Operations, conducts training in company vehicles or ride‑alongs, and maintains approved training routes and documentation.
• Maintains strong collaboration with Operations and Safety leadership by participating in meetings, Market Route Observations, trainer development, and responding to incident notifications requiring retraining.
• Serves as a mentor and coach to DDTs, new drivers, and current employees, reinforcing safe driving habits through guidance, feedback, and accountability.
• Maintains accurate training records, tracks participation across driver groups, and provides regular reporting and updates to management.
• Participates in training and other learning opportunities to expand knowledge of the organization's products, sales, and services, and performs other applicable duties necessary to help drive the organizations vision and to fulfill its mission, in line with its core values.
• Ensures compliance with all organization, state and federal policies, regulations, and laws regarding employment and employee safety.

Education, Experience & Qualifications

The successful candidate will possess a strong background in commercial driving, safety training, and instructional delivery. Demonstrated experience coaching, evaluating, and developing drivers across varying levels of experience is required. The incumbent must be able to effectively communicate with drivers, trainers, managers, and safety teams while maintaining accurate documentation and compliance standards.

Required education, experience, and qualifications include:

• Smith System 5 Keys Driver Trainer Certification - Truck & Large Vehicl

• Refresher certification required every two years

• Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL-B)

• CDL-A tractor trailer license not required, but eligible as part of professional development

• Working knowledge of all applicable lines of business, including:

• Front Load

• Roll Off

• Side Load

• Rear Load

• Container Delivery

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong coaching and mentorship skills, the ability to assess driver performance objectively, and the flexibility to adapt instructional methods to diverse learning styles and experience levels.

Attributes

Safety-focused, patient, and highly communicative professional with strong instructional and coaching abilities. Demonstrates leadership presence in both classroom and operational settings, adapts training approaches to individual learning needs, and consistently promotes continuous improvement, accountability, and operational excellence.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Insurance, Maternity & Parental Leave, Flexible Spending Accounts, Discounted Stock Program, 401K, Boot & Clothing Allowance, Safety Awards, Employee Assistance Plan, Wellness Incentive, Tuition Assistance, Career Pathways, and More.