What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Dispatcher position at Davidson Transit Organi?
Position Purpose
The Lead Bus Dispatcher serves as the senior dispatcher on duty and is responsible for overseeing daily dispatch operations across shifts. This position ensures the effective assignment and coordination of bus operator schedules, supports compliance with the collective bargaining agreement, and assists with service continuity and incident response. The Lead works closely with other dispatchers to manage workload distribution, verify data accuracy, and ensure proper procedures are followed. The role serves as the first point of escalation for dispatch staff and acts as the liaison between dispatch and frontline leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Coordination
- Oversee and support daily activities of dispatch staff during assigned shift
- Provide real-time guidance and direction to fellow dispatchers on scheduling, open work, and operator coverage
- Ensure consistent application of dispatch policies and labor rules as outlined in the ATU contract
- Act as the lead point of contact for escalated issues during the shift, and ensure accurate pass-down of critical information across shifts
- Maintain visibility and open communication with operations supervisors, radio control, and customer service
- Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to support operations while operators are required for tasks outside of their normal duties.
Dispatch & Scheduling Operations
- Assign operators to runs, protection, and extra work using the Trapeze system in accordance with labor agreement provisions
- Monitor operator attendance, verify call-offs, and ensure records are updated in the Absentee Book and system profiles
- Prepare and post daily dispatch reports, extra board lists, protection assignments, and volunteer call lists
- Enter all overtime cards and verify training premiums, cubing assignments, and shift adjustments
Administrative Duties
- Confirm shuttle key returns and radio check-ins
- Ensure materials such as detour notices, manifests, and run paddles are prepared and distributed
- Maintain sufficient office supplies and verify readiness of workstations for incoming shifts
- Assist in the training and mentoring of new dispatchers and clerks
Core Competencies
- Peer leadership & Mentoring
- Scheduling Expertise
- Decision-Making
- Policy & SOP Enforcement
- Communication
- Operational Technology
- Customer Focus
- Dependability
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 2 years of experience as a Bus Dispatcher or in a comparable transit operations role
- Demonstrated proficiency with Trapeze Ops, or similar scheduling and dispatch software
- Solid working knowledge of operator assignment procedures, extra board rotation, and run coverage
- Ability to apply and interpret collective bargaining agreement provisions related to dispatch operations
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills in a time-sensitive environment
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across multiple departments and with unionized staff
- Ability to work varied shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and during emergencies
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
Preferred Qualifications
- 3 years of experience in bus dispatch or transit scheduling in a unionized environment
- Prior experience as a lead dispatcher, dispatcher trainer, or in a peer leadership role
- Familiarity with AccessRide scheduling or paratransit dispatch processes
- Knowledge of DTO policies, labor agreements, detour procedures, and route structures
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
- Experience coordinating across departments including Radio Control, Maintenance, and Customer Care
Physical and Schedule Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, reach, and perform repetitive wrist motions.
- Must be able to operate standard office and event equipment.
- Flexibility to work variable hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and during emergency events.
- Must be able to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and handle emergency situations calmly and effectively.
Equal Opportunity Employer
WeGo Public Transit is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.