Transit Dispatcher - Full Time

The Transit Dispatcher performs in 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.

Schedule may vary depending upon needs.

The set hiring range for this position is $43,270.00 to $45,018.00 annually.

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.

• 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 When To Work  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

• 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…