Demand Response Dispatcher

About the role

The Part-Time Demand Response Dispatcher for Care-A-Van is responsible for coordinating and managing the daily operations of paratransit transportation services. This includes assigning or reassigning trips to drivers, adjusting schedules, monitoring vehicle locations, and ensuring timely, safe, and efficient service for passengers with disabilities or mobility limitations.

Responsibilities

• Assigning or reassigning trips to drivers based on route availability, vehicle capacity, and customer needs.
• Adjust daily schedules to accommodate cancellations or changes in customer schedules.
• Monitor real-time vehicle locations using GPS tracking and dispatch software to ensure timely service.
• Act as the primary point of contact for drivers, providing them with route information, updates, and instructions throughout their shifts.
• Communicate any changes in passenger pickup or drop-off times with passengers and drivers promptly.
• Respond to calls from passengers regarding trip inquiries, delays, or changes, and provide timely solutions.
• Address operational issues such as vehicle breakdowns, traffic delays, and driver or passenger emergencies, dispatching backup vehicles or drivers as needed.
• Coordinate with the maintenance team to report vehicle issues and ensure repairs are handled promptly.
• Ensure all trips are scheduled and dispatched in compliance with ADA requirements, local and state transportation regulations, and company policies.
• Maintain an updated understanding of the eligibility requirements for paratransit services to ensure appropriate service delivery.
• Coordinate with customer service and management teams to ensure high service quality and customer satisfaction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or GED.
• An associate degree in a related field preferred.
• Prior experience in dispatching, transportation coordination, or logistics required.
• Experience in paratransit or public transit systems is preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in using dispatch software, GPS tracking systems, and transportation scheduling tools.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations and paratransit services.
• Familiarity with the local geographic area and public transportation systems.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.

Supervisory & Operational Authority

This position may oversee 0 positions.

Compliance

• Recognize and follow ADA rules and regulations related to passenger transit services.
• Complete all mandatory training classes.
• Review and comply with all CARTA policies, procedures, and directives.

Physical Demands

• Sit for prolonged periods.
• Perform repetitive motion.
• Fast-paced environment requiring the ability to adapt to changing schedules and priorities.

Safety Requirements & Notifications

• The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is a public transit service provider governed by requirements of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Department of Transportation (DOT).
• Some jobs are classified as 'Safety Sensitive' and are subject to random testing for drug and alcohol use.
• All offers for employment are required to undergo pre-employment and possible random drug testing.
• If test shows a positive result, your application for employment will be rejected, or if hired, employment may be terminated.

Work Environment

• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

Application Process

To apply for this vacancy, you must complete the application in full. Applications are considered for 90 days.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer — M/F/D/V. It is the responsibility of the applicant to disclose true and accurate information on their account profile and/or resume. Falsification of this information may lead to your disqualification from vacancy consideration and/or termination of employment.