Dispatcher - Wichita, KS

Dispatcher - Wichita, KS

Job Location: Wichita, KS

Employment Type: Hourly

Job Type: Full Time

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.

Here's what you can expect from Watco:

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

Pay: Starting at $20.00/hour

Training Period: 6 months of training before working independently

Ground School (Training): 3 weeks in Birmingham, AL

Shifts: Five 8-hour shifts per week (may not be consecutive), 24/7, 365 days

Responsible for coordinating and directing train movements across the short line railroad network to ensure safe, efficient, and timely operations. Acts as the central communication point between train crews, maintenance of way teams, and management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Issue train orders, track warrants, and movement authorities in compliance with company and FRA regulations
• Coordinate with train crews, maintenance-of-way personnel, and other departments to ensure safe operations
• Monitor train movements and conditions (e.g., weather, crew availability, equipment status, track conditions, speed restrictions) and take necessary actions to maintain safety and performance
• Track train delays, prioritize high-priority trains, and manage the movement and protection of special loads (high/wide loads, etc.)
• Communicate via telephone or radio with train crews, yard supervisors, and other personnel regarding movements, orders, and instructions, work with law enforcement in emergencies
• Report railroad crossing malfunctions, ensuring proper notifications and protection; maintain Federal records for legal compliance
• Maintain accurate logs of train movements, communications, and operational events
• Ensure professional, accurate, and efficient communication, recorded for safety, accountability, and customer service

Qualifications

Prior dispatch experience preferred

Ensure high performance and professional development

Successfully complete the Watco Companies, Inc. General Code of Operating Rules course and examination

Successfully complete the Watco Companies, Inc. Rules Governing Train Dispatchers course and examination

Complete the Examination for the United States Hazardous Materials Instruction for Rail Education

Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent