Transit Dispatcher/Scheduler – Full Time

SOUTHEAST ALABAMA REGIONAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (SEARPDC)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Transit Dispatcher/Scheduler
Department: Transportation
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 4
Safety Sensitive: No
Security Sensitive: Yes
Job Description Prepared: November 2021
Revised: January 2023 – D. Crittenden / K. Farmer

Note: This job description reflects general duties and responsibilities. The employee may be assigned additional duties as needed.

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Relationships

• Reports to: Assistant Transportation Director
• Subordinate Staff: None
• Other Internal Contacts: Transportation Employees, HR, IT, Finance
• External Contacts: General Public, Local Businesses, Parts Stores, Boys & Girls Clubs, Service Area Counties, SE Health Child Development Center, Aging Clients, Vendors, Health Facilities

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Job Summary

Under general supervision, the Transit Dispatcher/Scheduler schedules and dispatches transit trips using software, prepares daily driver itineraries, maintains will call and denial logs, manages service spreadsheets for accurate billing, and monitors safety through review of vehicle camera footage. This position also helps train new drivers and ensure proper procedures are followed.
This is a security-sensitive job requiring a background check.

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Essential Functions

Scheduling & Dispatch

1. Answer calls and respond to transit requests.
2. Schedule or cancel client trips (store, work, appointments).
3. Create daily route schedules using software.
4. Develop most efficient routes and itineraries.
5. Maintain radio contact with drivers.
6. Create and maintain will call lists.
7. Review bus footage and create DVDs for incidents.
8. Maintain denial logs and report to supervisor.
9. Update contracted service spreadsheets for billing.
10. Contact emergency responders or service vendors as needed.

Administrative Tasks

1. Track vehicle mileage for maintenance schedules.
2. Maintain logs for time, mileage, passenger count, inspections.
3. Handle purchase orders for bus/building maintenance and supplies.
4. Draft memos and emails to staff and partners.
5. Submit monthly verification reports for NTD (National Transit Database).
6. Cross-check paperwork with scheduling software for accuracy.
7. Tag new equipment and track inventory changes.
8. Collect and reconcile rider fares.
9. Track passenger data and contract usage.
10. Report incidents to supervisor.
11. Assist in training new drivers.
12. Attend professional development (e.g., CPR, safety training).

Vehicle Maintenance

1. Attend driver training workshops.
2. Perform daily pre/post-trip inspections.
3. Clean vehicle interior and exterior daily.
4. Check and maintain fluid levels, tires, belts.
5. Refuel vehicle as needed.
6. Drive to maintenance facility for scheduled service.
7. Report issues to supervisor.

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Non-Essential Functions

• Performs additional related tasks as required or assigned.

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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (items marked with * can be learned on the job)

1. Knowledge of public transit regulations
2. *Knowledge of regional road systems
3. Computer and scheduling software proficiency
4. Basic vehicle maintenance knowledge
5. Safe driving practices and defensive driving
6. Safety procedures and accident prevention
7. Ability to read and interpret schedules and signs
8. Verbal and written communication skills
9. Organizational and route planning abilities
10. Basic math and fare reconciliation skills
11. Attention to detail
12. Ability to train and assist new drivers
13. Ability to handle stress and emergencies
14. Courteous and patient public interaction
15. Ability to operate vans and secure wheelchair-bound riders
16. Map-reading and navigation skills
17. Ability to work independently
18. Valid driver’s license required

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Minimum Qualifications

1. High school diploma or GED
2. At least one (1) year of experience working with the public
3. Must pass a pre-employment background check

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Physical Demands

Work may involve long periods of standing or walking on uneven ground, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting moderately heavy objects. Above-average agility and dexterity required.

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Work Environment

May involve moderate risk or discomfort such as working around moving parts or exposure to irritants. Protective gear like gloves or masks may be required.