School Bus Dispatcher

Dispatcher/Administrative Assistant

The School Bus Dispatcher is responsible for coordinating the daily safe, reliable, and efficient transportation of students to and from school, athletic events, and field trips. This role serves as the central hub of communication for the transportation department—monitoring bus routes via two-way radio, managing driver schedules, responding to unexpected delays or emergencies, and providing exceptional customer service to parents, school administrators, and the public.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain continuous two-way radio and base station communication with bus drivers, serving as the central point of contact for real-time field updates, route adjustments, and emergency protocols.
• Track vehicle locations, arrival/departure schedules, and overall route progress to enforce strict schedules.
• Leverage advanced computer-aided dispatch and electronic routing software to dynamically re-route buses around traffic congestion, construction zones, adverse weather conditions, and unexpected road hazards.
• Monitor emergency response channels and swiftly coordinate roadside assistance, backup transportation, or emergency services in the event of accidents or mechanical breakdowns.
• Execute daily office functions—including managing multi-line phone systems, monitoring voicemails, and overseeing email correspondence—while serving as the primary point of contact to handle inquiries from parents and school staff regarding pickup/drop-off schedules, bus stop locations, and late arrivals with empathy and professionalism.
• Demonstrate strong multi-tasking and problem-solving skills by rapidly re-prioritizing tasks during high-volume periods, peak transit hours, or severe weather events.
• Utilize software applications like Google Workspace, PDF management software, and digital dispatch logs—to maintain accurate records.
• Interact with drivers, administrative staff, school officials, and the general public in a professional, empathetic, and courteous manner under fast-paced and high-pressure circumstances.
• Maintain active hands-on knowledge and operational proficiency with all fleet vehicles, including full-sized school buses, mini-buses, passenger vans, and specialized accessible vehicles
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Experience:
• At least 2 years of relevant dispatching experience is preferred.
• Experience with student transportation standards, including state regulations, child safety protocols, and student code-of-conduct guidelines.
• Education:
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Certification:
• Drivers license.