Dispatcher

OUR MISSION
Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) provides exceptional and cost-effective transportation services that consistently exceed customer expectations while promoting the principles and practices of livable communities and sustainable development.
 
OUR VALUES
We value customer service, collaboration, diversity, fiscal accountability, innovation, sustainability and safety.  Employees and representatives of BFT are expected to uphold our values and mission.NATURE OF POSITION
Utilize Agency systems to dispatch fixed-route operators per pre-determined schedules. Maximize on-time performance; minimize customer wait times and service disruptions. Coordinate with maintenance in assigning and dispatching vehicles.

• Dispatch the system's vehicles, assign operators, and provide communication link to agency bus operators.
• Assure all routes are filled as assigned and operators are provided with timely instructions.
• Communicate with maintenance personnel on vehicle availability to assign and dispatch.
• Monitor bus operators/drivers and trip status, adjust and reassign as necessary to ensure on-time performance.
• Reschedule trips as necessary in the event of vehicle malfunction, traffic, or emergency situations.
• Assist in monitoring of operator/driver hours and scheduling to ensure compliance with labor agreement.
• Review all forms and documents for accuracy from operators; forwarding to management.
• May assign stand-by or extra bus operators/drivers in the event of absences or increased service volumes, or to minimize service disruptions because of traffic, vehicle malfunctions, operator problems, and/or emergency situations.
• Review operator/driver timesheets for completeness and accuracy before submitting to payroll; track and record attendance.
• Oversee vehicle performance and report mechanical issues to maintenance personnel in a timely manner.
• Complete and maintain a variety of daily reports, forms, and documentation.
• Oversee the quarterly shake-up operator schedule for low-service days.
• Administer Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-related transit requests.
• Open and/or close facility depending on work shift.
• Perform other clerical duties relevant to assigned area of activity.
• Assume duties of Operation Supervisor when needed.
• Work with and maintain confidential information.
• Demonstrate regular and punctual attendance.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent and previous dispatch experience. Work various days, hours, and shifts, as required. Type 30 wpm. Must possess a valid driver's license.
 
LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Must obtain and maintain the following licenses and certifications for continued employment at BFT:

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and corresponding medical certification and endorsements, or ability to obtain within 180-days of employment.
• First Aid and CPR certification; or ability to obtain within 180-days of employment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience with transit and/or paratransit operations.

• Policies, procedures, and protocols related to dispatching vehicles and operators.
• Understand and apply applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations governing public transit systems, including ADA.
• Operate a two-way radio and computerized dispatch system.
• Forms, records, and documents related to dispatching.
• Provisions of the labor agreement which affect the operating division.
• Understand the function of vehicle operation schedules to effectively assign operators and vehicles.
• Familiar with the geography, transit routes, and landmarks of Benton and Franklin counties; read schedules, paper and/or electronic maps; comprehend directions of travel.
• React quickly and calmly in an emergency and adopt an effective course of action within established guidelines.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relationship with those contacted during work.
• Make accurate time calculations utilizing basic mathematical concepts.
• Keep legible and accurate records.
• Learn new technologies, policies, procedures and guidelines established by professional organizations and/or governing agencies.
• Utilize office equipment and other relevant technology (software and systems) to meet business needs.
• Understand, follow, and communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Work as a team member and independently; effectively apply organizational and time management skills; meet deadlines and comply with Agency policies.
• Exercise sound judgment in making decisions.
• Focus on tasks and recall details; handle frequent interruptions.

Salary : $55,240 - $82,860