Dispatcher – Full-Time

Overview

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION

Coordinates daily delivery of transit services, using multiple modes, including a dispatch system and Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL).  Opens or closes driver facility, as needed, and works varied shifts, including days, afternoons, nights, weekends and holidays.  Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance.

Monitors telephones and radio in the dispatch center, answers all incoming calls and ascertains nature of call, gathers all necessary information to transmit or relay.  Provides information and responds to questions.  Evaluates and handles customer inquiries with sensitivity and make suggestions as to best course of action.

Records customer information and schedules transportation using computer software.  Verifies and accurately records data on computer scheduling program, including passenger numbers, no-shows, cancellations, mileage, pick-up and drop-off times, fares and donations, and other data as directed.

Evaluates routes, scheduling needs and driver availability.  Assigns buses to routes and drivers to buses.  Takes proactive approach to ensure routes run efficiently and on time by making adjustments to schedule, assignments, or routes as needed.

Performs radio dispatch duties, including driver-customer coordination, responding to and resolving unusual or problematic situations, and monitoring driver efficiency and performance.  Notifies drivers of road closures, detours, and gives direction to ensure efficient and on-time service delivery.

Ensures drivers are fit for duty and in proper uniform.  Verbally notifies driver of proper procedures and documents verbal accounts.  Reconciles routes with fare collection daily.

Completes reports and logs on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis or as required.  Communicates with other dispatchers during shift and between shifts.  Maintains and updates radio log and dispatch sheet during shift and completes prior to leaving shift regarding the status of ongoing or unconcluded business, such as calls for service, location of personnel and vehicles, or open routes.  Ensures dispatch board is completed and accurate.  Takes proactive approach to completing tasks to ensure timely and efficient service delivery.

Takes all steps necessary to ensure emergency incidents and accidents are properly recorded, by notifying police, staff and coordinating response with departments; by completing reports and providing information to authorities in accordance with standard operating policies and procedures.

Maintains Commercial Driver’s License and maintains ability to operate any PARTA vehicle.  Maintains knowledge of routes, operator responsibilities and fills in for drivers when needed.