Class D Driver Training Instructor

Position Summary

Central Ohio Youth for Christ (COYFC) is seeking a patient, safety-focused, and dependable Class D Driver Training Instructor to provide comprehensive driver education to novice drivers. The instructor will primarily work with teenagers ages 15–18, as well as adult students ages 19 and older.

This position combines structured classroom instruction with individualized, behind-the-wheel training. The instructor will help students develop safe driving habits, understand and apply Ohio traffic laws, practice defensive driving techniques, and prepare for the Ohio BMV driver examination.

The ideal candidate is an experienced driver and educator who is calm under pressure, communicates effectively, demonstrates excellent judgment, and enjoys helping new drivers build confidence and competence behind the wheel.

As part of Central Ohio Youth for Christ, the Driver Training Instructor will also support the organization's Christian mission and values.

Essential Responsibilities

Classroom Instruction

• Deliver the state-approved 24-hour Class D driver education curriculum.

• Teach Ohio traffic laws, roadway rules, defensive driving techniques, and safe-sharing-of-the-road practices.

• Present information in a clear, engaging, and age-appropriate manner.

• Prepare students for the knowledge requirements of the Ohio BMV driver examination.

• Encourage students to ask questions and actively participate in classroom discussions.

• Maintain an organized and positive learning environment.

Behind-the-Wheel Instruction

• Provide individualized, one-on-one driving instruction to students.

• Typically provide approximately eight hours of behind-the-wheel instruction per teen student, as required by the applicable training program.

• Progressively introduce students to increasingly challenging driving environments, including:

  • Quiet residential neighborhoods

  • Local streets

  • Intersections and traffic signals

  • Higher-traffic roadways

  • Expressways and other appropriate driving environments

• Teach students vehicle control, defensive driving, traffic awareness, lane positioning, parking, turns, merging, and other essential driving skills.

• Adapt instruction to the student's individual skill level, confidence, and learning pace.

Safety & Risk Management

• Maintain constant awareness and control of the training vehicle during all lessons.

• Properly utilize vehicle safety equipment, including dual-brake systems.

• Prioritize the safety of students, instructors, passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists at all times.

• Identify and address unsafe driving behaviors immediately.

• Follow all applicable Ohio laws, regulations, organizational policies, and driver-training requirements.

• Maintain a professional and safety-conscious environment during every instructional session.

Student Progress & Communication

• Evaluate student performance and identify areas requiring additional instruction or practice.

• Maintain accurate records of classroom and behind-the-wheel training hours.

• Document student progress and required training activities.

• Provide constructive, encouraging, and specific feedback to students.

• Communicate appropriately with parents/guardians regarding student progress when applicable.

• Report significant concerns, incidents, or safety issues to the Training Manager promptly.

Professional & Team Responsibilities

• Maintain current knowledge of Ohio traffic laws and driver-training requirements.

• Maintain required licenses, certifications, and documentation.

• Attend required staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities.

• Work collaboratively with the Training Manager and other staff members.

• Demonstrate professionalism, dependability, punctuality, and sound judgment.

• Perform other duties related to driver education and the organization's mission as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Candidates must:

• Be at least 21 years of age.

• Hold a valid driver's license for at least five years.

• Have no history of driver's license suspension.

• Have two or fewer currently active points on their Ohio BMV driver abstract.

• Successfully complete an FBI/BCI fingerprint background check.

• Successfully complete the required state-regulated physical examination signed by a licensed physician.

• Possess or obtain an Ohio Class D Driver Training Instructor license.

• Meet all applicable Ohio requirements for providing driver education and behind-the-wheel instruction.

Basic Qualifications

• Previous experience teaching, coaching, mentoring, or training teenagers and/or young adults.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Patient, calm, and supportive approach when working with students of varying skill levels.

• Demonstrated commitment to safe driving practices.

• Ability to provide constructive feedback in a positive and encouraging manner.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

• Strong organizational and documentation skills.

• Dependable, responsible, and professional demeanor.

Physical & Work Requirements

The position requires the ability to:

• Sit and operate a motor vehicle for extended periods.

• Remain attentive and alert throughout classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction.

• Respond quickly and appropriately to changing traffic and driving conditions.

• Demonstrate and observe driving techniques from the passenger seat.

• Work flexible hours based on student schedules, including potential evenings and weekends.

• Safely operate a training vehicle equipped with dual controls.

Christian Mission & Ministry Responsibilities

Central Ohio Youth for Christ and its affiliates are faith-based organizations committed to advancing a Christian mission and maintaining organizational values consistent with their stated religious beliefs.

Employees are expected, consistent with the organization's policies and applicable law, to support and represent the organization's religious mission and values in their work.

Responsibilities may include:

• Supporting and participating in Christian activities and ministry opportunities.

• Being willing to contribute to devotional, prayer, or worship activities.

• Seeking spiritual guidance and wisdom through prayer and reflection in support of organizational and ministry initiatives.

• Respectfully sharing one's faith journey and Christian beliefs when students express an interest in learning about the love of Christ.

• Representing Central Ohio Youth for Christ in a manner consistent with its mission, values, and Statement of Faith.

Work Schedule

This is a part-time position requiring approximately 15–20 hours per week, with potential for full-time employment based on organizational needs, performance, and program growth.

We are very flexible with scheduling, and the right candidate will have the flexibility to set their own work hours within the needs of the program and organization.

The schedule may vary based on student enrollment and availability and may include weekday, evening, and weekend hours.

Equal Opportunity & Employment Requirements

Employment is subject to successful completion of all required background checks, driving-record verification, physical examination, licensing requirements, and other applicable employment requirements.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or requirements. Duties and responsibilities may be modified as organizational needs change.