Dispatcher, Rail

Note: This position is open exclusively to current Herzog employees; applications from non‑employees will not be considered.

About the role

The Dispatcher, Rail reports to the Supervisor, Rail Dispatch and is responsible for the safe, accurate, and compliant real‑time dispatching of trains on the CapMetro Railroad system, including passenger, freight, and excursion service. The role executes operating rules, timetables, and special instructions established by the Chief Dispatcher, under daily shift leadership of the Supervisor, Rail Dispatch. The Dispatcher issues track warrants, permits, and movement authorities; monitors train movement and conditions affecting movement; and coordinates response to unplanned events and emergencies to minimize passenger inconvenience and limit delays.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with federal and CapMetro safety rules, policies, and procedures; respond to safety concerns and escalate as needed.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of territory, physical characteristics, train schedules, and destinations.
• Issue and ensure accuracy and timeliness of track bulletins, track warrants, permits, movement authorities, and communications to all employees operating on or near the railroad.
• Monitor train movement and conditions (weather, crew availability, equipment); coordinate responses to unplanned events and emergencies.
• Direct real‑time movement of trains and issue operational instructions to train crews, Maintenance of Way, and signal employees in accordance with operating rules and dispatching authority.
• Perform administrative duties related to hours‑of‑service, hazardous materials, documentation of train movements and delays, updating Digital Message Signs, and reporting rule violations.
• Promptly and accurately document dispatching activity, authorities issued, incidents, and delays per internal procedures and FRA recordkeeping requirements.
• Notify the Supervisor, Rail Dispatch of service disruptions, rule deviations, safety concerns, or conditions requiring supervisory attention.
• Support CapMetro’s Safety Management Systems (SMS) process by ensuring staff follows safety and security policies and reports concerns.
• Perform other rail‑related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree preferred.
• Three (3) years’ experience as a railroad engineer or in a closely related railroad operations role.
• Previous train dispatching experience preferred.
• Ability to pass all required tests prior to completing the training period.
• Subject to pre‑employment background check, motor vehicle report, and DOT physical, medical evaluation, and drug screen.
• Valid driver’s license and endorsements as required.
• Pass color/vision examinations and maintain required safety certifications and testing annually.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Read, write, and communicate clearly and accurately, including issuing oral instructions via various communication devices.
• Type at least 35 words per minute and accurately input data into computer systems.
• Make quick and accurate decisions in a high‑pressure, safety‑sensitive environment.
• Knowledge of operating rules, procedures, and industry practices (signals, dispatching, track, bridges) for rail passenger and freight operations.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills for communicating with a diverse workforce.
• Self‑accountability, results focus, and ability to analyze fast‑changing operational information.
• Excellent oral and written communication with train crews, field employees, supervisors, and contractors.
• Strong problem‑solving, organizational, and situational awareness abilities.
• Experience dispatching rail passenger and freight service within a multi‑modal transit operation.
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet, and dispatching or scheduling software packages.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Work is performed in an Operations Control Center (OCC)/dispatching environment with minimal exposure to hazardous conditions.
• Requires sustained attention, time‑critical decision‑making, and safety‑sensitive judgment continuously.
• Must sit and stand frequently during an eight‑hour shift, reach vertically and horizontally, and use telephone, radio, headset, and computer equipment.
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 20 lb.
• Work at a computer terminal for six to eight hours per day with constant interruptions.
• May be required to work overtime, on‑call, alternating shift schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and other hours as operationally required.
• Regular attendance, punctuality, and presence at the assigned location are essential.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Schedule

The position may involve overtime, on‑call duties, and alternating shift schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and other hours as operationally required.

Work Authorization

Visa sponsorship is not available. All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Mobility Status

This is an onsite position; the primary workplace is a CapMetro facility or field location. The incumbent is expected to work in the office or field location four or more days per week. Mobility status may change based on business needs.