Dispatcher

Description

The School Transportation Dispatcher coordinates and oversees daily student transportation operations, ensuring safe, timely, and efficient bus service. This role serves as the central communication point between drivers, school staff, parents, and transportation management.

Daily Operations

• Schedule, assign, and adjust bus routes, trips, and driver assignments as needed.
• Monitor real-time bus operations to ensure on-time performance and route coverage.
• Track driver attendance and arrange substitutes when necessary.
• Maintain up-to-date route sheets, student lists, and transportation logs.

Communication & Coordination

• Serve as the primary contact for drivers, providing instructions and updates throughout the day.
• Communicate with school administrators, parents, and district staff regarding delays, incidents, or schedule changes.
• Relay information between transportation management and drivers, including emergency messages or weather-related updates.

Safety & Compliance

• Monitor radio communication to respond promptly to emergencies or incidents.
• Document accidents, breakdowns, and disciplinary issues according to district and state guidelines.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with state pupil transportation regulations and district policies.

Administrative Duties

• Use routing and dispatch software to update routes, attendance, and driver schedules.
• Prepare daily reports on operations, mileage, incidents, and driver logs.
• Maintain files related to transportation operations, student ridership, and communication logs.

Requirements

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have a valid CDL-B.
• Must have Poly Plot routing software experience.
• Strong communication and customer-service skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer proficiency (routing software, email, spreadsheets).
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.

Preferred

• Experience in school transportation, dispatching, or related fields.
• Knowledge of local geography and school district boundaries.
• Familiarity with two-way radio systems and GPS tracking tools.

Key Skills

• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Attention to detail
• Clear verbal communication
• Decision-making under time constraints
• Customer-service orientation
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team