Transit Dispatcher - Part Time

Blacksburg, Town of•Blacksburg, VA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Performs in a central communications role coordinating, scheduling, and directing bus operators to ensure timely and effective operation of public transit and paratransit services. Work is performed under the supervision of the Transit Lead Dispatcher. This position is classified as an essential position during designated planned or unplanned events. Shifts may be scheduled in the morning, afternoons, evenings, and/or nights on weekdays and/or weekends. Scheduled shifts will predominantly be nights and weekends. The Town of Blacksburg is an EEO Employer M/F/D/V

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of the safe operation of transit buses
Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public transit operations dispatching duties
Thorough knowledge of the geography of the service area
Thorough knowledge of area traffic laws
Thorough knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of large scale operations
General knowledge of computer software applicable to public transit
Ability to plan and schedule the work of rotating staff
Ability to operate transit vehicles safely and efficiently
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, public safety staff, and the general public
High school diploma or GED is required
Valid commercial driver's license (Class B with Air Brakes and P endorsement) in the Commonwealth of Virginia with a satisfactory driving record
This is a safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing guidelines as set forth by the Federal Transit Administration and the US Department of Transportation in 49 CFR Part 40, and Part 655, as amended
A pre-employment drug screening is required for this position
Drug and alcohol testing guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration, will be followed during the employment period

Nice To Haves

Experience in public transit service operations as a transit operator, including some supervisory experience is desirable

Responsibilities

Provide ongoing direction via two-way radio to bus operators to ensure timely arrival and departure of all route buses on route
Assess and evaluate changing traffic conditions and patterns and implement route detours through communications and notifications to bus operators and other Transit staff
Prepare vehicle assignments and coordinate with the Maintenance, ITS and CCS divisions regarding vehicle needs and issues
Arrange vehicles in garage nightly according to assignment plan to ensure organized and efficient morning pullout
Coordinate morning pullout to ensure timely start of morning service
Resolve scheduling issues due to late operators, operator call outs, and open shifts
Approve operator scheduling changes on operator trip sheets and WhenToWork scheduling system and maintain run sheets
Provide dispatching and routing services for fixed-route, demand response, and paratransit as appropriate
Work with Lead Dispatcher, supervisory staff and operators in resolving concerns related to dispatch services
Prepare daily dispatch report detailing key events and actions occurring during the dispatch shift
Create, maintain, and monitor computerized daily manifests/schedules for dispatching and routing transit services; modify and update schedules to improve services
Attend all required safety / staff meetings, trainings, and other meetings when assigned
Maintain and update supporting logs
Monitor computer, mobile data terminals, and the two-way radio for information regarding various issues; notify supervisor of situations requiring attention
Operate fixed route and paratransit vehicles as necessary
Work directly with customers in resolving issues, if necessary