PROGRAM SPECIALIST I - DISPATCHER

Lower Rio Grande Valley D•Weslaco, TX

About The Position

Guides specified operational activities of the regional transit program, supporting operational activities on all modes of transit services to include large urban, small urban, and rural routes. Functions will include safety, monitoring, strategic planning, and facilities management. Purpose of position is to provide regional oversight and guidance to a 5-county service area of public transportation to ensure safety, communication, and support to the public and transit service operators. May serve as a lead worker providing direction to others. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement. Coordinate transit operations by supporting Program Supervisor III in receiving and transmitting information to transit operators and staff, providing instruction and guidance to transit vehicle operators, responding to emergencies/safety events, or making adjustments to maintain on-time performance. This may include rapid route changes due to accidents, construction, or other events. Communicates effectively with Valley Metro leadership, staff, passengers, and members of the public on all matters related to transit operations. Effectively and efficiently resolve problems by working with Program Supervisor III, Director of Regional Transit, Maintenance staff, and appropriate personnel. Perform clear and concise record keeping, logging of required information, equipment checks, data gathering, and updating logs and databases. Responsible for making necessary transit service adjustments, working with the Maintenance Division to identify available transit vehicles, parking, points, etc. for any situation that interferes with the movement of buses or schedule adherence. Monitors arrival and departure times of operators/drivers for accuracy through two-way radio and geo-location. Assists in the training and development of new operators; provides on-going training and instruction in areas related to passenger relations, safety, accident prevention, bus maintenance; and keeps records of training provided, course content and attendees. Coordinates and dispatches all bus operator assignments for normal service, special events and emergency response. Provide support to the fare system by troubleshooting issues, coordinating with vendor, supporting transit operators and the finance department. Must maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information, materials, and personnel data. Adheres to safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures to ensure the wellbeing of LRGVDC – Valley Metro employees, customers, and business partners. Maintains, supports, and promotes a safe environment while complying with all LRGVDC – Valley Metro safety rules, policies, and procedures. Provides customer service to passengers, stakeholders, and others. Performs related work as assigned. Performs other such related duties as may be assigned. May involve outdoor exposer and lifting equipment up to 30 pounds. Experience in dispatching, customer service, or administrative support work. Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent. Transit experience is generally preferred. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Requirements

Experience in dispatching, customer service, or administrative support work.
Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent.
Knowledge of: principles and practices used in transit operations, planning, dispatching and scheduling.
Federal and state transit rules and regulations.
Identify transportation service needs and prepare and implement related work plans.
Monitor, train, motivate and evaluate transit vehicle drivers.
Interpret applicable laws, rules, policies, and regulations.
Skill: in the use of standard office equipment, general computer knowledge and software.
Ability to: respond to public inquiries in a timely manner, demonstrate proper incident reporting, and to communicate effectively in both English and Spanish.
May be required to be registered, certified, or licensed in a transit area.
Valid/Current Texas Driver’s License.
This position is classified as a safety sensitive position in accordance with FTA’s 49 CFR Part 40.

Nice To Haves

Transit experience is generally preferred.
Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Responsibilities

Coordinate transit operations by supporting Program Supervisor III in receiving and transmitting information to transit operators and staff, providing instruction and guidance to transit vehicle operators, responding to emergencies/safety events, or making adjustments to maintain on-time performance.
Communicate effectively with Valley Metro leadership, staff, passengers, and members of the public on all matters related to transit operations.
Effectively and efficiently resolve problems by working with Program Supervisor III, Director of Regional Transit, Maintenance staff, and appropriate personnel.
Perform clear and concise record keeping, logging of required information, equipment checks, data gathering, and updating logs and databases.
Make necessary transit service adjustments, working with the Maintenance Division to identify available transit vehicles, parking, points, etc. for any situation that interferes with the movement of buses or schedule adherence.
Monitor arrival and departure times of operators/drivers for accuracy through two-way radio and geo-location.
Assist in the training and development of new operators; provides on-going training and instruction in areas related to passenger relations, safety, accident prevention, bus maintenance; and keeps records of training provided, course content and attendees.
Coordinate and dispatch all bus operator assignments for normal service, special events and emergency response.
Provide support to the fare system by troubleshooting issues, coordinating with vendor, supporting transit operators and the finance department.
Maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information, materials, and personnel data.
Adhere to safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures to ensure the wellbeing of LRGVDC – Valley Metro employees, customers, and business partners.
Maintain, support, and promote a safe environment while complying with all LRGVDC – Valley Metro safety rules, policies, and procedures.
Provide customer service to passengers, stakeholders, and others.
Perform related work as assigned.
Perform other such related duties as may be assigned.