Dispatcher
Ride Calhoun · Battle Creek, MI · 1 wk ago
On-siteManagementFull-time
About the role
The Dispatcher position coordinates operator routes and vehicles, including assigning routes and vehicles to CDL and Non-CDL Operators, monitoring service according to established policies and performs as a CDL/Non-CDL Operator as needed. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of an Operations Supervisor, and is a safety-sensitive position subject to DOT FTA Drug and Alcohol testing requirements.
Responsibilities
- Monitor and coordinate the real-time movement of Max and Flex & Move vehicles across assigned routes to ensure safe, on-time service.
- Communicate continuously with drivers via radio, mobile data terminal, or phone to relay route changes, delays, detours and service alerts.
- Respond promptly to emergencies and safety events by dispatching appropriate personnel, supervisors or emergency responders.
- Adjust schedules, reroute vehicles, or deploy relief drivers in response to traffic conditions, road closures, weather events, or service disruptions.
- Ensure compliance with TACC policies, DOT/FTA regulations and safety protocols.
- Provide clear, professional communication to the public, other agencies, or law enforcement regarding service status when required.
- Support accessibility services by coordinating Move scheduling and ensuring ADA compliance where applicable.
- Track vehicle locations and schedule adherence using GPS/AVL systems and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software
Requirements
- Vision & Hearing: Normal or corrected vision sufficient for prolonged close work at a computer screen (reading spreadsheets, mapping software, timetables); ability to read fine-print schedules, maps, and data tables accurately; hearing sufficient for phone calls, radio traffic (if monitoring operations), and meetings.
- Physical Demands: Primarily sedentary — extended periods sitting at a desk/workstation (often 6-8+ hours); repetitive use of hands/wrists for typing and mouse use; light lifting may be required (< 20 lbs).
- Cognitive/Mental Demands: Sustained concentration for detailed, data-heavy work; ability to manage multiple constraints simultaneously; comfort with recurring deadline pressure.
- Working Conditions: Environment: Primarily indoor office setting; 8 – 12-hour shifts; Work Pace & Pressure: May be called upon during service emergencies to make rapid schedule adjustments — this can mean irregular hours during disruptions; Collaborative work with Dispatchers, Schedulers, Operations Supervisors and Managers; Tools & Technology: Heavy use of specialized scheduling software and GIS mapping tools; Regular use of spreadsheets and databases.
Qualifications
- Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED.
- Preferred Qualifications: One to Three years’ experience in dispatch or scheduling role in public transportation; Valid Class B commercial driver’s license with airbrake and passenger endorsements.
- Special Requirements: Must possess a minimum 1-year DOT card upon hire; Must be able to pass a DOT FTA drug and/or alcohol test.; Strong computer skills with proven competency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.