Train Dispatcher Student (Alaska Railroad)

State of Alaska•Anchorage, AK

9d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a training position for a Train Dispatcher at the Alaska Railroad. The primary purpose of the role is to schedule train movements for safe meets and passes, issue Mandatory Directives, manage unexpected events and emergencies, and arrange track usage for maintenance. Training will be primarily on-the-job with experienced Train Dispatchers. Upon completion of the training, a written and verbal examination will be administered by an ARRC panel to assess acquired skills, knowledge, and application of Rules and Regulations. Experienced Train Dispatchers may have training requirements waived based on their experience and examination results. Upon completion of the Training Program, employees will be able to perform the major duties and responsibilities of a Train Dispatcher.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Working knowledge of Railroad Operating Rules (General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), Maintenance of Way Operating Manual (MOM), etc.).
Four (4) years of verifiable work experience that has demonstrated a high degree of independence and problem-solving ability.
Computer applications and keyboard experience.
Ability to work varying shifts and deal effectively with high levels of stress.
Ability to pass a pre-employment vision and hearing acuity test.
Ability to read, write and communicate effectively with others in English.
Ability to make sound judgments and decisions.
Ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to work under pressure in stressful conditions.
Ability to verbally communicate effectively.
Knowledge of collective bargaining agreements.
Clear and precise writing skills.
Strong analytical skills.
Ability to establish priorities.
Reliability and dependability.
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
Ability to type and use a computer.
Must be able to follow written and oral instructions and be capable of working with a high degree of independence.
Must be adaptable and able to evaluate changing situations and establish priorities based on available information.
Must be able to work under pressure and meet critical deadlines.
Must have strong interpersonal skills, be able to speak clearly, read and understand operating and safety rules, exercise good judgment, analyze problems and take corrective action.
Must be able to communicate clearly and tactfully with internal and external customers.
Must have a strong aptitude for utilizing information systems and thrive in a fast-paced work environment with changing priorities.
Must be able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
Must be able to identify and distinguish colors displayed on a video monitor and video display in order to read track labels, switch indicator lights and other safety sensitive indications.
Must be capable of light lifting and carrying up to 15 pounds.
Must have dexterity in both hands to be able to operate a computer keyboard.

Nice To Haves

Experience in Word, Excel and Outlook is preferred.
Previous work experience in a supervisory or lead position.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the safe and prompt movement of all trains, railcars, cranes, ditchers, and other assorted track equipment.
Issues track warrants, directing and authorizing the movement of trains and maintenance personnel.
Must be able to calculate running times for trains.
Provides direction and instructions to train crews, track car operators, and other track equipment operators to effectively expedite traffic movement and ensure safe railroad operation.
Provides station employees with pertinent information relative to train operations.
Maintains various records, Event Reports, and notifications.
Responsible for planning and establishing call times for trains and crews.
Issues appropriate instructions to crew dispatch, terminal employees, and/or Terminal Supervisors.
Operates a computer-aided dispatching system, a personal computer, radio controller, and telephone to transmit instructions and information to train crews and other employees.
Responsible for accurate record keeping of train delays, mainline work windows, unusual events, and miscellaneous administrative work as may be delegated by the Chief Train Dispatcher.
Acts as the first point of contact for all reports of incidents, accidents, and emergencies, including derailments, spills, weather-related events, and earthquakes, and must take immediate and appropriate action to ensure safety.
Coordinates train movement by making plans for trains to meet or pass in a manner consistent with railroad rules of operations.
Makes decisions based on schedules assigned to meet customer needs.
Records train time logs and delay reports.
Prioritizes maintenance work windows and on-time train departures and arrivals.
Schedules and assigns initial, replacement, or emergency crews to trains based on available work time and trip purpose.