Transportation - Router @ Transportation Department

Moses Lake School District 161•Moses Lake, WA

21h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Transportation Specialist – Dispatcher/Router is responsible for coordinating the safe and efficient transportation of students. This role includes developing and maintaining bus routes, dispatching drivers, handling communication with staff and the public, and responding to unexpected transportation needs. The position requires excellent problem-solving skills, multitasking abilities, and professionalism in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Working knowledge of Skyward, Microsoft Office, and Google programs.
Ability to obtain a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with passenger, school bus, and air brake endorsements.
Ability to obtain Washington State School Bus Operators’ Authorization.
Successful completion of a school bus driver training course within 30 days of hire.
Ability to follow safe work practices and procedures.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work professionally under pressure.
Ability to work flexible and additional hours as needed.
Decision-making skills with accountability for outcomes.
Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a high-pressure environment.
Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to make informed decisions.
Professional demeanor with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
Adaptability to changing priorities and the ability to work independently.
Ability to read and interpret maps, ensuring safe and efficient bus routing.
Knowledge of school transportation regulations, safety procedures, and special transportation needs.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain composure and professionalism in demanding situations.

Nice To Haves

Experience in K-12 school transportation or related secretarial experience.
Familiarity with road and street maps.
Ability to integrate technology into planning and operations.
Experience working in an environment with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

Develop, prepare, and maintain all bus routes using computerized routing systems, ensuring efficiency and safety.
Adjust routes and schedules as needed to accommodate school district needs, road conditions, or special circumstances.
Review and analyze routes to ensure compliance with safety regulations and district policies.
Maintain accurate records, including bus mileage, student assignments, and special transportation requirements (IEPs, McKinney-Vento, etc.).
Receive and process transportation requests, assigning drivers and buses for daily routes, field trips, and extracurricular activities.
Communicate with drivers using two-way radios and other communication tools, providing updates on road conditions, delays, and emergencies.
Monitor bus schedules to ensure timely departures and arrivals.
Track and verify driver attendance, extra work assignments, and compliance with time schedules.
Maintain strong public relations through positive interactions with staff, parents, and the community.
Respond to transportation disruptions, including late students, bus breakdowns, inclement weather, and traffic incidents.
Handle phone calls from parents and staff regarding bus schedules, delays, and complaints, providing professional and courteous assistance.
Monitor and evaluate CDL drivers for compliance with drug and alcohol policies; report reasonable suspicion concerns to management.
Provide backup bus driving support when needed.
Ensure compliance with district policies and applicable laws.
Maintain accurate records and documentation related to transportation operations.
Attend required training, safety meetings, and in-service sessions.
Maintain district-assigned email and respond to messages regularly.
Work cooperatively with other staff and maintain positive, professional relationships.
Perform other duties as assigned.