The deadline to apply for this position is on September 30th, 2022 at 10:00am CST.

Position Purpose

Under general supervision, performs public transportation operational and dispatching duties for fixed-flex route operations. Operates a variety of communication equipment: two-way radio, telephone, and dispatching system to ensure efficient and timely bus services are provided to passengers.

Essential Functions

• Oversee, track the movement of buses, and communicate with operators for fixed-flex route services by utilizing: computer software, ITS, and two-way radio to ensure timely, effective and safe service delivery.
• Ensure transit services adhere to set bus assignments and schedules; modify and update schedules to improve service when necessary and communicate status of information to Transit Manager.
• Answer/respond to operational phone calls, two-way radio and passenger requests; decide on appropriate course of action, dispatch assistance as required or refer to appropriate personnel.
• Coordinate and communicate with local departments such as Police, Fire, and EMS to provide detailed essential information to initiate quick response to emergency situations and establish emergency detours.
• Maintain effective communication with Transit Supervisor regarding mechanical problems seeking prompt response to minimize service interruptions.
• Maintain accurate records, logs and files as they relate to emergencies, scheduling problems, mechanical problems, address verification, daily reports, directions, cancellations, no shows, etc.
• Maintain a library for immediate availability of reference operational materials such as computer manuals, maps/brochures, policy/procedures SOPs, policy memos and other reference materials.

Secondary Functions

• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Capital and/or Fiscal Responsibility

• Responsible for adhering to all federal, state and City of South Padre Island Purchasing Policies.

Credentials (minimum preferred)

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Skill in the operation of the listed tools and equipment.
• Ability to effectively communicate on a one-to-one basis with the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to read sentences, instructions, regulations, procedures.
• Ability to write complete sentences using basic grammar, complete daily reports, forms, and work schedules.
• Ability to handle stressful situations.
• Ability to multi-task and deal with almost constant problem-solving situations.
• Ability to maintain effective working relations with employees, other departments, officials and the public.
• Ability to maintain accurate records; type and enter data accurately.
• Ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplications and division necessary for reporting purposes.
• Ability to learn and apply principles and practices of transit agency product/service needs, and policies.
• Must obtain complete familiarity of transit service area.
• Considerable knowledge of general office procedures.
• Working knowledge of computers and electronic data processing.
• Ability to work a flexible work schedule that includes evenings and weekends.
  • Ability to pass an initial pre-employment FTA-approved drug test and continue to pass random drug and alcohol tests.

Formal Education/Certification/Licenses

• Graduation from high school or GED equivalent with specialized course work in communication or specialized advance training in related field.
• Must have a valid Texas driver’s license.
• Willingness to obtain professional certification in computer software and customer service.

Prior Experience

• Two (2) years of increasingly responsible related experience or any equivalent combination of related education and experience to be determined appropriate by the employer.

Language Requirements

• Bilingual: English and Spanish required. The ability to read, write and speak in English is required. The ability to verbally speak in Spanish is required.

Tools and Equipment Used

Office telephone, cellular phone, two-way radio, dispatch equipment, personal computer system, including word processing, spreadsheets, and specialized software, printer/copier/fax/scanner, recording system, laminating machine, USB drive, digital camera, shredder etc.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear; use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk; lift and/or move up to twenty-five (25) pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work will usually be carried out in an air-conditioned office environment. Occasionally this work will be required to be performed outside the office in a vehicle or outdoors. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately noisy, and may be disruptive.