Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler)

Starting salary: $18.44 per hour

About the role

As an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler), your day-to-day responsibilities will be both engaging and impactful. You'll review schedules and ensure optimal bus routes to meet the needs of our riders. Constant communication with drivers is key—you'll be on the phone or via radio to coordinate real-time adjustments and handle any unforeseen issues. You'll respond to customer inquiries and provide essential information about routes and schedules. Problem-solving will be at the forefront of your role, as you'll need to assess and respond to various scenarios that require immediate attention. Additionally, maintaining accurate records and documentation will help you support smooth operations throughout your shifts.

Responsibilities

• Review schedules and optimize bus routes
• Communicate with drivers via phone or radio to coordinate real-time adjustments
• Handle unforeseen issues and make immediate decisions
• Respond to customer inquiries about routes and schedules
• Maintain accurate records and documentation

Requirements

• Strong communication skills for interacting with bus operators and riders
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to navigate unexpected challenges
• Ability to remain calm under pressure
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Attention to detail for precise scheduling and discrepancy identification
• Effective time management to prioritize tasks
• Collaborative spirit to work closely with a team

Benefits

• Paid time off (vacation, sick, holiday, etc.)
• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
• Retirement plans: 401(a), 457, Roth IRA
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life insurance
• Long-term and short-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Free gym membership
• Free transit pass
• Qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program

About CATA

CATA is a joint municipal authority established in 1974, proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary. CATA serves portions of Centre County, Pennsylvania, including Penn State's 60,000 students and employees at the University Park Campus. CATA provides a critical transportation network that facilitates more than 5 million annual rides through fixed-route, microtransit, paratransit, and commuter services programs. Renowned for its innovative approach to sustainable transportation, CATA was the first public transportation agency operating an entirely compressed natural gas (CNG) fixed-route fleet on the East Coast. The authority also boasts the highest farebox recovery ratio in Pennsylvania, recovering nearly 40% of its fixed-route operating expenses in 2023.

Selected candidate will be subject to drug and alcohol testing and a criminal background check. CATA participates in E-Verify.