Dispatcher (Transportation)

About the role

This is a responsible position in the LCPS Dispatch Center. The employee works as a team member with other dispatchers to fulfill the communications needs of LCPS and other county agencies. The dispatcher is responsible for all communications functions for school bus services, handling emergency calls to fire, rescue, and police from school vehicles, and using independent judgment with established procedures.

Responsibilities

• Respond to telephone and radio calls advising of the necessity for a substitute bus, driver, or attendant, and arrange replacements.
• Operate a two‑way radio console to communicate with bus drivers, school staff, and transportation personnel.
• Perform switchboard duties, including answering incoming calls, routing them to the appropriate person or department, and taking detailed messages.
• Provide school bus transportation information to callers as needed.
• Coordinate office, garage, and driver/attendant communications regarding staffing, substitutions, and daily operational adjustments.
• Manage all communications through the dispatch center, including emergencies, bus accidents, and breakdowns.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in school bus operations or dispatcher‑related work, or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and/or training demonstrating the ability to perform the responsibilities.

Licenses and Certifications

• Virginia Commercial Driver’s License with appropriate endorsement preferred.
• Ability to drive a school bus preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of school bus operations, school locations, county roads, and general geography.
• Ability to adjust service schedules, maintain records, obtain and relay accurate information, and work well under deadline pressure.
• Proficiency with two‑way radio and standard office equipment (personal computer, cameras, fax machine, multiple software applications).
• Strong human relations, organizational and communication skills, patience, tact, and sound judgment.

Physical Requirements

The employee regularly talks and conveys detailed spoken instructions, must possess normal cognitive abilities, frequently sits or remains stationary for long periods, and may occasionally exert up to 25 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.

Essential Personnel

Employees in this position are designated essential personnel and are required to report for work during delays or emergency situations. Notification of required reporting will be provided via in‑person communication or email with as much advanced notice as possible.

Pay

Salary Scale: Scale B.1/Universal – Non‑Exempt Level 8
Salary Range: $29.20 – $37.58 per hour

Schedule

12 months per year, 254 days, 8 hours per day.

Other Details

• Reports to: Supervisor, Area Transportation
• FLSA Status: Non‑Exempt
• Remote Work Eligible: No
• Union Designation: Non‑Certified