Dispatcher

Summit LLC•Beach Park, IL

8d•$23 - $25

About The Position

The Dispatcher directs and monitors daily assignments and schedules drivers and bus assistants while assigning vehicles to cover routes, field trips, and charter work. The role communicates assignment details, provides routing directions, and coordinates special services as needed. It responds to emergencies, coordinates repairs and replacement resources, and informs district and building personnel about service disruptions and changes. The Dispatcher maintains accurate route and operational records, coordinates vehicle repairs with the Maintenance Supervisor, follows dispatch procedures, and handles customer concerns professionally. The role may recommend disciplinary action for part-time staff and escalates unresolved issues to management. It also requires ethical conduct and reporting concerns about suspicious or inappropriate behavior.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Knowledge of the surrounding geographic area to support effective and efficient routing.
Ability to organize and prioritize time while balancing customer-care and dispatching demands.
Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and customers in fast-paced or stressful environments, including interpersonal and telephone communication.
Ability to read and interpret documents and instructions from customers and team members.
Ability to perform work requiring cooperation and instruction.
Ability to function in a fast-paced environment under substantial pressure.
Ability to work with an appropriate level of independence and to work independently.
Problem-solving ability.
Ability to operate two-way and emergency radio systems.
Ability to use office machines, including fax, scanner, copier, zip drive, and telephone system.
Ability to use Microsoft Office programs and computerized routing software.
Ability to read road and street maps.
Ability to keep organized and accurate records related to dispatch and routing.

Nice To Haves

Previous dispatch experience is preferred.
Bilingual abilities are a plus.

Responsibilities

Direct and monitor daily assignments; schedule drivers and bus assistants and assign vehicles to cover routes, field trips, and charter work.
Ensure drivers’ and bus assistants’ daily activities are assigned and completed on time.
Communicate relevant details of driving assignments to drivers.
Assist drivers with routing directions and direct them to perform special services when required.
Recommend appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or discharge, for part-time staff who violate company policies.
Respond to emergency calls, facilitate the emergency response network, coordinate mechanical service repairs, and assign replacement buses and drivers when a route problem occurs.
Notify district and building personnel about route assignment changes, emergencies, accidents, breakdowns, and other events that disrupt service.
Maintain route documentation and records, including contract requirements, school information, student data, route changes, maps, vehicle details, bus assignments, and driver details.
Coordinate vehicle service and mechanical repairs with the Maintenance Supervisor.
Maintain compliance with dispatch standard operating procedures.
Handle customer concerns and information requests promptly and professionally.
Escalate unresolved issues to management as appropriate.
Share concerns about suspicious or inappropriate behavior with a supervisor or manager.
Perform other duties as assigned.