Transit Dispatcher - Full Time

Blacksburg, Town of•Blacksburg, VA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Transit Dispatcher performs a central communications role, coordinating, scheduling, and directing bus operators to ensure the 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. 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

Provides ongoing direction via two-way radio to bus operators to ensure timely arrival and departure of all route buses on route
Assesses and evaluates changing traffic conditions and patterns, and implements route detours through communications and notifications to bus operators and other Transit staff
Prepares vehicle assignments and coordinates with the Maintenance, ITS, and CCS divisions regarding vehicle needs and issues
Arranges vehicles in garage nightly according to assignment plan to ensure organized and efficient morning pullout
Coordinates morning pullout to ensure a timely start of morning service
Resolves scheduling issues due to late operators, operator call outs, and open shifts.
Approves operator scheduling changes on operator trip sheets and WhenToWork scheduling system and maintains run sheets
Provides dispatching and routing services for fixed-route, demand response, and paratransit as appropriate
Works with Lead Dispatcher, supervisory staff, and operators in resolving concerns related to dispatch services
Prepares daily dispatch report detailing key events and actions occurring during the dispatch shift
Creates, maintains, and monitors computerized daily manifests/schedules for dispatching and routing transit services; Modifies and updates schedules to improve services
Attends all required safety/staff meetings, training, and other meetings when assigned; Maintains and updates supporting logs
Monitors computers, mobile data terminals, and the two-way radio for information regarding various issues; Notifies the supervisor of situations requiring attention
Operates fixed route and paratransit vehicles as necessary
Works directly with customers in resolving issues, if necessary