Dispatcher

Job Description

Position Title:  Dispatcher

    Hourly-Subject to Fair Labor Standards Act

Reports To:   Director of Operations

Position Summary:

The Dispatcher is responsible for trip scheduling and dispatching same day trips to drivers through a computer dispatch system called Routematch.

The dispatcher will coordinate drivers work schedules and assignments.

Responsibilities include answering phones, scheduling and dispatching rides from callers into the computer system. Position requires the ability to follow instructions, detailed computer work, apply acquired knowledge in responding to inquiries and requests to schedule service. Attention to detail and accuracy is critical. Must be able understand and communicate basic English and Math. Must have a good understanding of time and distance.

The Dispatch/Scheduler must be able to multi-task.  The position is frequently fast paced. 

Essential Job Functions can include:

* A clear understanding of the transportation programs operated by Okanogan County Transportation.

* Schedule and reschedule paratransit assignments as necessary to maintain speedy, efficient, and economical service to clients.

* Answer phones courteously and respond to all inquiries by clients and/or drivers concerning routes, schedules, deviations and trips as quickly as possible.

* Monitor all computer schedules and tablets to assure that drivers are safe and following assigned schedules. Identify possible service disruptions and initiate appropriate action to correct problems as they arise.

* Review and revise driver schedules daily to ensure the most cost effective use of personnel.

* Maintain a professional attitude during working hours with drivers.

* Make sound decisions based on information available, act quickly, decisively, and efficiently in all circumstances in accordance with relevant laws, regulations and company policies.

* Monitor operating practices to assure compliance with company rules and regulations and report all violations, including client complaints, to the supervisor.

* Communicate immediately with Driver Supervisor any and all issues out of the ordinary regarding drivers and busses.

* Makes bus passes, distributes to drivers and assures payments for passes are received.

* Maintain and update bus tablet manifests as assigned.

* Maintain computer client data base.

* Maintain clear and concise reports containing both written language and numeric expressions.

* Set up and maintain files and correspondence according to office procedures.

* Communicate immediately with Director of Operations all issues out of the ordinary concerning drivers, riders and buses.

* Be patient and professional at all times with clients and co-workers in a fast-paced, demanding environment.

* Be knowledgeable in general safety standards and procedures.

* Communicate clearly over phone in a courteous, efficient manner.

* Effectively handle stress and continue to work efficiently in a courteous and responsible manner.

* Participate in all training deemed necessary by the Director of Operations.

* Have a valid Washington State drivers' license.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

* Must have the physical dexterity to use a computer and keyboard, to reach, stand, lift light loads, and sit for long periods of time.

* Shifts may vary and will be assigned to meet the needs of the company.

* Must not have hearing deficiencies that would make it difficult to hear and respond effectively to telephone communications.

Special Requirements

* Must have computer experience.

* Must have a good understanding of time and distance.

* Attendance and successful completion of mandatory training sessions is required.

* Must submit to and pass a pre-hire drug test and random drug and alcohol tests in accordance with the Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration drug and alcohol regulations

* Must submit to a criminal history check with Department of Licensing

* This job description is not intended and should not be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with this job; it is intended to be an accurate reflection of the principal job elements.