Department: Care-A-Van
Status: Part-Time, nights & weekends
Reports To: Director of Paratransit Services
Company: CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority)
Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Rate Of Pay: $21.65, Hourly/Non-Exempt
Summary:
The Paratransit Dispatcher is responsible for coordinating and managing the daily operations of paratransit transportation services. This includes assisting with scheduling drivers, re-assigning trips when necessary, monitoring vehicle locations, and ensuring that transportation is provided in a timely, safe, and efficient manner for passengers with disabilities or mobility limitations. The Dispatcher plays a key role in communication between drivers, passengers, and team members to ensure smooth operations and ADA compliance.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Other duties may be assigned that are in keeping with the goals and objectives of CARTA.
Scheduling and Dispatching:
- Assigning or reassigning trips to drivers based on route availability, vehicle capacity, and customer needs.
- Adjust daily schedules to accommodate cancellations, or changes in customer schedules.
- Monitor real-time vehicle locations using GPS tracking and dispatch software to ensure timely service.
Communication:
- Act as the primary point of contact for drivers, providing them with route information, updates, and instructions throughout their shifts.
- Communicate any changes in passenger pickup or drop-off times with passengers and drivers promptly.
- Respond to calls from passengers regarding trip inquiries, delays, or changes, and provide timely solutions.
Problem Solving:
- Address operational issues such as vehicle breakdowns, traffic delays, and driver or passenger emergencies, dispatching backup vehicles or drivers as needed.
- Coordinate with the maintenance team to report vehicle issues and ensure repairs are handled promptly.
Compliance
- Ensure all trips are scheduled and dispatched in compliance with ADA requirements, local and state transportation regulations, and company policies.
- Maintain an updated understanding of the eligibility requirements for paratransit services to ensure appropriate service delivery.
Collaboration
- Work closely with the Scheduler to ensure seamless coordination between trip scheduling and dispatching.
- Coordinate with customer service and management teams to ensure high service quality and customer satisfaction.
Qualifications:
Education:
- High school diploma or GED required, associate degree in a related field preferred.
Experience:
- Prior experience in dispatching, transportation coordination, or logistics required.
- Experience in paratransit or public transit systems is preferred.
Skills:
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficient in using dispatch software, GPS tracking systems, and transportation scheduling tools.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Other Requirements:
- Knowledge of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations and paratransit services.
- Familiarity with the local geographic area and public transportation systems.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
Working Conditions:
- Primarily office-based with occasional travel to client sites or transportation hubs.
- Fast-paced environment requiring the ability to adapt to changing schedules and priorities.
- May require extended periods of sitting and working on a computer.
CARTA is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.