Transit Dispatch Coordinator - ADA Advocate

General Definition of Work

Performs intermediate technical and administrative work, leading, coordinating, scheduling, training, and counseling all dispatch staff for fixed-route and paratransit/demand response services. This position will oversee the application and certification process of passengers for ADA paratransit services. Work is performed under the supervision of the Transit Operations Manager. Supervision is exercised over all personnel within the Dispatch group. This position is classified as an essential position during designated planned or unplanned events.

**This position is not eligible for telework**

The Town of Blacksburg is an EEO Employer M/F/D/V

Essential Functions

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  Oversee dispatching, scheduling, and routing for both fixed-route and paratransit/demand response services as appropriate

• Provides layered support in a substitute role when other employees are absent

• Hire and manage vacancies in the Dispatch group

• Provides effective scheduling and coverage for planned and unplanned absences

• Maintains effective records and administers training plan for all subordinate staff, including new hires and routine training

• Oversee execution of computerized daily manifests/schedules; modify and update schedules and procedures to improve services

• Supervises and maintains record-keeping through databases and logs

• Receives, screens, maintains, and updates dispatching reports for all operational services

• Monitors trip scheduling practices for demand response services, reviews on-time performance reports, and works to improve scheduling efficiencies

• Collects data and maintains logs required for ADA paratransit services, such as excessively long trips, call wait times, etc.

• Monitors computer, mobile data terminals, and the two-way radio for information regarding scheduling issues; notifies the supervisor of situations requiring attention

• Maintains records and administration of BT Access and Go Anywhere passengers

• Oversees and manages the application and certification process for ADA paratransit services, with support from support staff

• Maintains knowledge of ADA requirements, rules, and regulations

• Provides guidance and support to individuals with disabilities during the certification process for ADA paratransit service

• Coordinates travel training for passengers with disabilities who wish to utilize transit

• Strives to provide the highest level of internal and external customer service

• Effectively keeps records and communicates service changes with other divisions

• Communicates effectively with Operations Manager and management in establishing and overseeing goals and objectives for the assigned unit

• Prioritizes, plans, and oversees projects and workload for the assigned unit; delegates work and provides training to subordinate staff

• Verifies the work of assigned staff and ensures adherence to established guidelines, rules, and regulations

• Manages and evaluates the performance of staff in coordination with the Operations Manager

• Serves as the primary point of contact in working with supervisory staff, dispatchers, and operators in resolving concerns related to dispatch services

• Performs ongoing coordination of dispatch staff within the Operations division and related to other transit divisions

• Maintains records of dispatch equipment, and makes recommendations for upkeep and replacement to the Operations division, and coordinates replacements and updates with other transit divisions when necessary

• Monitors and promotes safety in all areas of dispatch

• Maintains the Dispatch Office and assures that the work area is kept clean and serviceable for all necessary staff

• Attends all required weekly/monthly staff meetings and other meetings when assigned

• Maintains monthly Dispatch staff meetings schedules, agendas, and training records

• Other duties as assigned and as needed for planned and unplanned events

• Supports the Operations division's daily services when needed or in the absence of other supervisory staff, including accident and incident investigation and shift changes

• Operate fixed-route and paratransit/demand-response vehicles as necessary

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public transit operations, including dispatching duties
• Knowledge or ability to learn applicable ADA laws and their application within transit operations
• Ability to plan and schedule the work of rotating staff
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of subordinates
• General knowledge of computer software applicable to public transit
• Ability to utilize a computer and Microsoft Office Suite, and WhentoWork scheduling software
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, public safety staff, and the general public
• Thorough knowledge of the geography of the service area
• Thorough knowledge of area traffic laws
• Ability to operate transit vehicles safely and efficiently
• Comprehensive knowledge of the safe operation of transit buses
• Thorough knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of large-scale operations

• Bachelor’s degree with coursework preferably in business, public administration, transportation planning, or a related field
• Considerable experience (3-5 years) in supervisory or management positions
• Experience working in commercial or public transportation service operations is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  

• Valid commercial driver's license (Class B with Air Brakes and P endorsement) in the Commonwealth of Virginia with a satisfactory driving record
• A pre-employment drug screening is required for this position
• This is a safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing guidelines as set forth by the Federal Transit Administration and the US Department of Transportation in 49 CFR Part 40, and Part 655, as amended
• Drug and alcohol testing guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration will be followed during the employment period

Physical Requirements

• This work requires the frequent exertion of up to 10 pounds of force and occasional exertion of up to 50 pounds of force
• Work regularly requires speaking or hearing, using hands to finger, handle, or feel, and repetitive motions, frequently requires sitting, reaching with hands and arms, and lifting, and occasionally requires standing, walking, climbing or balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, tasting or smelling, and pushing or pulling
• Work has standard vision requirements; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word
• Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels
• Work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, using measuring devices, operating motor vehicles or equipment, and observing general surroundings and activities
• Work occasionally requires working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and exposure to outdoor weather conditions
• Work is generally in a moderately noisy location (e.g. business office, light traffic)