Driver Instructor wanted at Driver Training Academy

The transportation and logistics industry is the backbone of many economies, ensuring that goods and services reach their intended destinations on time. In this fast-paced sector, the role of a Driver Training Academy (DTA) Instructor/Assessor is crucial. These professionals not only shape the skills of new drivers but also ensure that experienced drivers maintain and improve their competencies. At the heart of their job lies the responsibility of upholding safety standards, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Purpose of the Job

The primary role of a DTA Instructor/Assessor is to assume full accountability for all assessments and administrative tasks related to driver training. This includes evaluating the competency of both new and existing drivers, ensuring they meet the high standards required by the industry. The Instructor/Assessor is also responsible for facilitating training sessions that cover a range of driving and operational skills, from operating forklifts to handling hazardous materials.

Key Responsibilities

Evaluating Driver Competency

A significant portion of the DTA Instructor/Assessor’s role involves evaluating drivers’ competencies. This includes conducting thorough assessments of new drivers before they are allowed to operate vehicles for the company. The assessments are designed to ensure that drivers are capable of handling the demands of the job, from navigating complex routes to adhering to strict safety protocols.

For existing drivers, the Instructor/Assessor conducts annual assessments to ensure that their skills remain sharp and that they continue to meet the company’s standards. This ongoing evaluation is critical for maintaining a high level of safety and efficiency within the fleet.

Conducting Training Sessions

In addition to evaluations, the Instructor/Assessor is responsible for conducting various training sessions. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Forklift Operation: Both novice and refresher courses are provided to ensure operators are proficient in using forklifts safely and effectively.
• Crane and Lifting Equipment Operation: Training includes the use of truck-mounted cranes, reach trucks, and powered pallet trucks, among other equipment.
• Driving Rigid Vehicles and Conveying Dangerous Goods: These sessions prepare drivers to handle specialized tasks that require a high level of skill and knowledge.
• Basic Firefighting: Ensuring that drivers are prepared for emergencies is another critical component of the training offered by the DTA.

The training sessions are designed to be interactive and hands-on, with a strong emphasis on practical skills. This approach ensures that drivers not only understand the theoretical aspects of their job but also know how to apply this knowledge in real-world situations.

Administrative Responsibilities

Beyond training and assessments, the Instructor/Assessor also handles a variety of administrative tasks. These include:

• Documentation: Ensuring that all training and assessment documents are fully completed, signed, and properly filed is essential for compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
• SHEQx System Management: The Instructor/Assessor is responsible for capturing all relevant information on the SHEQx system, including details of driver evaluations and training sessions. This data is crucial for tracking driver performance and ensuring that all required certifications are up to date.
• Certificate and License Administration: Before issuing certificates and licenses, the Instructor/Assessor must verify the accuracy of employee details. This step is vital for maintaining the integrity of the certification process.

Assessment and Moderation

Conducting outcome-based assessments is another core responsibility of the DTA Instructor/Assessor. These assessments are designed to measure the competency of drivers across various operational tasks. After each assessment, the Instructor/Assessor compiles a detailed report and shares the results with both the driver and the company.

Moderation is also a critical aspect of the role. The Instructor/Assessor must ensure that assessments are fair, consistent, and aligned with industry standards. This involves conducting pre- and post-moderation meetings and providing feedback to assessors to improve the quality of assessments.

Skills and Attributes Required

To excel in this role, a DTA Instructor/Assessor must possess a unique blend of skills and attributes. Communication and facilitation skills are essential, as the job requires the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively. Driving skills are also crucial, as the Instructor/Assessor must be able to demonstrate best practices to drivers.

Personal attributes such as the ability to manage one’s workload with minimal supervision, a “can-do” attitude, and a willingness to explore new ways of working are highly valued. Instructors/Assessors must also be knowledgeable about the SAQA framework, the Skills Development Act, and Driven Machinery regulations.

Conclusion

The role of a Driver Training Academy Instructor/Assessor is multifaceted, combining hands-on training with rigorous assessments and detailed administrative work. By ensuring that drivers are well-trained and competent, these professionals play a vital role in maintaining safety, efficiency, and compliance within the transportation industry.

For those passionate about driver safety and skill development, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact. It’s a job that requires dedication, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the complexities of the logistics and transportation sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the need for skilled DTA Instructors/Assessors will only grow, making this a rewarding and fulfilling career choice.