Demand Response Dispatcher Care-A-Van at Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority

Department: Care-A-Van

Status: Full Time

Reports To: Care-A-Van Manager

Company: CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority)

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Rate Of Pay: $54,000.00 – $60,000/ Salary Non-Exempt

Summary

The Full Time Demand Response Dispatcher Care-A-Van 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.