Transit Dispatcher - Part Time

Transit Dispatcher

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. Holidays may be required. The set starting rate for this position is $20.80 an hour. The Town of Blacksburg is an EEO Employer M/F/D/V

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• 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 When To Work  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

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

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

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

This work requires the frequent exertion of up to 10 pounds of force and occasional exertion of up to 50 pounds of force

Work regularly requires speaking or hearing,…