Train Dispatcher/Railroad Clerk

About the role

At Iowa Interstate Railroad, our Train Dispatcher/Railroad Clerks play a vital role in keeping trains moving safely, efficiently, and on schedule. This is a fast-paced operations position where your decisions directly impact customers, train crews, public safety, and the daily movement of freight across our railroad network. If you enjoy problem-solving, multitasking, working in a team environment, and making real-time operational decisions, this could be the career for you.

Schedule

This position operates in a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week transportation environment. For the foreseeable future, new team members should expect to work rotating shifts that may include days, evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays. Schedules are assigned based on operational needs and staffing requirements. This is not a traditional Monday through Friday office position. Dispatchers are responsible for supporting railroad operations around the clock. Candidates who are most successful in this role are flexible, dependable, and comfortable working varying schedules in a 24/7 operating environment.

Responsibilities

• Train & Traffic Management: Direct and coordinate railroad traffic throughout the territory; issue authorities, permits, and track occupancy permissions; plan train operations to minimize delays and maximize efficiency.
• Operational Coordination: Communicate weather conditions and operational impacts to personnel; coordinate track and work activities with Engineering and Maintenance teams; maintain familiarity with territory characteristics and operational changes.
• Customer & Crew Support: Provide accurate train movement information to internal and external customers; arrange crew transportation, taxi services, and lodging accommodations as needed; prepare train lists, switch lists, and operating information for train crews.
• Documentation & Data Management: Maintain accurate records related to freight inventory including hazardous materials documentation; train consist and waybill information; yard inventory and more.
• Safety & Emergency Response: Ensure compliance with all railroad operating rules and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations; manage unexpected situations to protect employees, the public, railroad property, and customer freight.

Requirements

• At least 18 years of age
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver's license
• Basic computer proficiency
• Strong communication and organizational skills