Dispatcher
About The Position
Be a logistics hero! Support our operators and keep the system moving. Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where every minute counts? Love being at the center of activity, solving problems on the fly, and keeping people moving? If you have experience in transit, logistics, dispatching, or any role where you’ve juggled schedules, communication, and “lots of moving parts,” TCAT wants to meet you. We’re looking for a Dispatcher who enjoys dynamic work, can stay cool under pressure, and is ready to make an immediate impact on public transportation in Tompkins County. As a TCAT Dispatcher, you are the heartbeat of daily operations. You’ll coordinate bus routes, help Operators get what they need, monitor radio communications, and keep our system running safely, efficiently, and on time. When something unexpected happens (and let’s be honest—transit is full of surprises!), you’re the one who brings order to the chaos. If you like the idea of being the person everyone counts on, this is your kind of job.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- CDL with passenger & air brake endorsements, or willingness to obtain within 3 months
- Experience in dispatching, transit operations, logistics, or fleet management preferred
- Strong communication skills and a clear speaking voice
- Confidence working independently in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
- Solid computer skills (email, spreadsheets, operations software)
- Excellent organization, multitasking, and judgment
- Ability to apply policies and stay calm under pressure
- Willingness to work variable hours—including nights, weekends, holidays
- In accordance with New York State and U.S. Federal regulations, all prospective commercial driver candidates are subject to motor vehicle record check, verification of past employment, criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and ongoing random drug and alcohol testing.
- Any offer of employment is contingent on satisfaction of all FMCSA, DOT, DMV, and NY 19-A regulations.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate Routes & Schedules
- Build and manage weekly Operator schedules in compliance with the labor agreement
- Assign buses and drivers to ensure smooth service
- Handle time-off requests, daily schedule changes, and open work boards
- Monitor operator check-ins and departures to keep service on-time
- Support drug and alcohol testing coordination
- Maintain accurate data in operations software and daily documentation
- Own the Radio
- Initiate and receive all two-way radio communications
- Act as the go-to contact for Operators, mechanics, Transit Supervisors, emergency responders, and other agencies
- Manage communications during inclement weather and service disruptions
- Support & Guide Operators
- Provide coaching, direction, and assistance throughout the day
- Enforce attendance and operational policies
- Help resolve day-to-day issues
- Maintain attendance tracking and timekeeping for payroll
- Administer MOD service requests
- Keep the Operations Area stocked and organized
- Drive a transit vehicle in emergencies
- Provide backup street supervision when needed
- Step in for special events, field work, or other duties as they arise
Benefits
- Health Insurance (Excellus BCBS, significant employer contribution)
- Vision & Dental (employer-paid)
- Life/AD&D, Short & Long Term Disability (employer-paid)
- Voluntary employee, spouse, and child life insurance
- 401(k) with voluntary employee contributions & 10% employer contribution after 2 years
- Paid Time Off including 15 vacation days, 7 paid holidays, 5 floating holidays (paid out annually if unused), 7 sick days, and 3 personal days
- Employee & Childcare Assistance Programs
- Medical FSA & HSA options
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
