Transportation Dispatcher
Coordinator managing daily bus routes, schedules, and driver communications
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About Our Organization
We are committed to providing exceptional educational services and creating a positive learning environment for our students, staff, and community. Our organization values integrity, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do.
Position Overview
The Transportation Dispatcher coordinates daily bus operations, manages routes and schedules, and serves as the primary communication link between drivers, schools, and parents. This safety-sensitive position requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to respond quickly to changing situations. The dispatcher ensures efficient and safe transportation services while maintaining compliance with district policies and regulations.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate daily bus routes and schedules, making adjustments as needed
- Dispatch drivers and monitor bus locations using GPS and communication systems
- Communicate with drivers via two-way radio regarding route changes, delays, and emergencies
- Respond to parent inquiries regarding bus schedules, routes, and student transportation issues
- Coordinate with school administrators regarding field trips, athletic events, and special transportation needs
- Maintain accurate records of routes, schedules, and driver assignments
- Monitor weather conditions and coordinate emergency route modifications
- Process transportation requests including new student registrations and route changes
- Coordinate substitute driver assignments and route coverage
- Document incidents, delays, and route issues for reporting and analysis
- Assist with driver training and route familiarization as needed
- Ensure compliance with transportation regulations and district policies
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent (Associate's degree preferred)
- Previous experience in transportation, logistics, or dispatch operations
- Ability to pass pre-employment and ongoing drug/alcohol screening
- Ability to pass background check
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
- Proficiency with computer systems and transportation software
- Ability to work under pressure and make quick decisions
- Knowledge of local geography and traffic patterns
- Ability to work early morning hours (typically 5:00 AM start)
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous school transportation dispatch experience
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or knowledge of CDL requirements
- Experience with GPS tracking and fleet management systems
- Bilingual skills (as applicable to district needs)
- Emergency management or crisis response training
Skills & Competencies
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong organizational and time management abilities
- Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment
- Proficiency with computer systems, databases, and transportation software
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills for route adjustments and emergencies
- Knowledge of local geography, routes, and traffic patterns
- Customer service skills for interacting with parents and school staff
- Attention to detail for accurate record-keeping and scheduling
- Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
- Basic knowledge of transportation regulations and safety requirements
Work Environment
This position works primarily in a transportation office or dispatch center, typically starting early morning hours (5:00 AM) to coordinate morning routes. The dispatcher works with computer systems, two-way radios, and telephones in a fast-paced environment. The role requires extended periods of sitting and computer use, with frequent interruptions and the need to respond quickly to changing situations. The position involves regular interaction with drivers, school administrators, parents, and transportation supervisors.
Physical Requirements
Physical Demands
This role requires the ability to sit for extended periods, use a computer keyboard and mouse, and communicate effectively via phone and video conferencing. The position involves occasional standing, walking, and lifting of light objects (up to 10 pounds). Employees must have sufficient vision and hearing to perform essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Additional Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods while maintaining alertness
- Sufficient vision and hearing to monitor multiple communication channels simultaneously
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions
Benefits & Perks
Standard Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities. Additional benefits may vary based on employment status and location.
In Addition to Our Standard Benefits Package
Transportation staff receive:
- Early morning shift premium pay
- Paid training and professional development opportunities
- Opportunities for advancement within transportation operations
Legal & Compliance
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
At-Will Employment
This position is at-will, meaning either the employee or the employer may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, except as may be limited by applicable law or collective bargaining agreement.
Background Check Policy
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include criminal history, employment verification, and reference checks, as permitted by applicable law.
Safety Sensitive Position & Drug Testing
This is a safety-sensitive position as defined by applicable regulations. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. Employees in this position are subject to random drug and alcohol testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, and return-to-duty testing as required by law and district policy. A positive test result or refusal to submit to testing may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.