Lead Transportation Dispatcher

Starting Date: Immediately Lead Transportation Dispatcher Job ID: 5773827 Position Type: Full-Time Posted: Jun 10, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC) Job Description Exempt Status: Non-Exempt No. of Days: According to district approved calendar Department: Transportation Reports To: Director of Transportation Supervises: Provides work direction and coordination to Transportation Dispatchers Position Function/Purpose: A working lead position responsible for coordinating daily transportation dispatch operations (60‑70%) while providing leadership, training, and work direction to the dispatcher team (30‑40%). The Lead Dispatcher serves as the primary operational point of contact for route coverage, driver coordination, and emergency response, ensuring efficient and safe transportation services across all MISD campuses. Must possess a valid Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements and be able to drive routes as needed. Essential Functions Leadership & Coordination Duties (30‑40%) Coordinate and supervise daily dispatcher operations across all shifts Provide work direction and assignments to Transportation Dispatchers Serve as primary operational liaison between dispatch team and Director of Transportation Train and mentor dispatchers on procedures, systems, and best practices Assist Director with dispatcher scheduling, shift coverage, and assignments Monitor dispatcher performance and provide feedback to Director Conduct quality control of route assignments and coverage decisions Lead dispatcher team meetings and communicate operational changes Resolve conflicts and escalated issues from dispatchers, drivers, or campuses Coordinate emergency response and crisis management for transportation incidents Review and improve dispatcher procedures and workflows Serve as acting operational supervisor in Director’s absence for dispatch matters Operational Dispatch Duties (60‑70%) Ensure all bus routes are covered and assigned daily across all shifts Coordinate route coverage during driver absences, emergencies, and shortages Manage distribution of keys, radios, and equipment to drivers Answer phone and two‑way radio calls; respond to routine requests or emergencies Communicate with outside organizations, local police, emergency services, and others as appropriate Respond to driver requests for assistance and dispatch tow trucks, emergency services, and additional equipment as needed Maintain current knowledge of all routes and school locations to ensure timely services Work closely with bus drivers, monitors, technicians, service center liaison, and central staff to ensure accurate route status information Review bus routes for efficiency and effectiveness; communicate recommended improvements to management Collaborate and communicate effectively with the routing department and campus administrators Collect and process bus maintenance request forms from drivers Assist in distribution and collection of route/trip sheets; ensure weekly and monthly student counts are completed accurately Maintain daily log of school buses, assigned drivers and monitors for all shifts Monitor and coordinate field trip coverage and assignments Serve as substitute bus driver to cover routes during driver shortages Maintain and provide required reports to transportation administration team Review, understand, and follow transportation guidelines and procedures to ensure consistency Foster positive relations with service center team, campuses, teachers, and parents Present oneself as a role model for employees with regard to proper attire, grooming standards, and positive attitude Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Transportation Qualification Requirements Accredited High School Diploma or equivalent (U.S.A equivalency) required; Associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university preferred Valid Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements required Must be 18 years of age Five (5) years of experience in transportation operations; at least two (2) years as a dispatcher in a school transportation environment required Demonstrated leadership ability and experience training or mentoring others Experience in office management or transportation system coordination Knowledge of transportation and trips management software (Transfinder, Zonar preferred) Ability to use maps and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to follow routes and locate addresses Ability to read and understand documents, including policies and procedures manuals Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Excellent customer service skills and ability to remain calm under pressure Ability to speak Spanish preferred Ability to organize and prioritize work for self and provide direction to others Possess knowledge of streets and highways in Midland County and surrounding areas; individual school programs; preparation of regular and federal reports; safety regulations and practices Ability to pass U.S. Department of Transportation alcohol and drug tests and annual physical exam Must pass criminal background check and maintain eligibility for student contact Physical Demands Light to moderate lifting and carrying (up to 50 pounds) Frequent use of hands and fingers for computer work and documentation Specific hearing requirements (ability to hear and distinguish multiple radio transmitters) Visual acuity for reading maps, computer screens, and detailed documents Ability to sit for extended periods while monitoring dispatch operations Ability to operate motor vehicles including school buses Regular and reliable attendance required Ability to work in high‑stress, fast‑paced environment with multiple simultaneous demands Equipment Used Telephone and multi‑line phone systems Two‑way radio communication systems Computer, printer, and multiple software systems (Transfinder, Zonar, GPS tracking) Copy machine and office equipment School buses and district vehicles Mobile communication devices Work Environment Office environment with constant phone and radio communication Constant noise from multiple communication channels Outside work in all weather conditions when driving routes Protracted or irregular working hours, including early mornings, late afternoons, and potential evening/weekend coverage Fast‑paced environment requiring multitasking and rapid decision‑making High‑stress situations involving student safety and emergency response Equal Opportunity Statement Midland Independent School District provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr