Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler)

Summary

Join Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) as an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler). This role places you at the heart of our transportation network, where every day presents unique challenges and opportunities to make a real difference. You'll play a key role in ensuring efficient and timely transit services for the State College community, enhancing the daily commute experience for countless individuals.

Starting salary: $18.44 per hour

Benefits include paid time off (vacation, sick, holiday, etc.), health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), 401(a), 457, Roth IRA, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, life insurance, long-term disability, short-term disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), free gym membership, and free transit pass. CATA is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.

What does an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler) do?

As an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler), your day-to-day responsibilities will be both engaging and impactful. You'll review schedules and ensure optimal bus routes to meet the needs of our riders. Constant communication with drivers is key - you'll be on the phone or via radio to coordinate real-time adjustments and handle any unforeseen issues. You'll respond to customer inquiries and provide essential information about routes and schedules.

Problem-solving will be at the forefront of your role, as you'll need to assess and respond to various scenarios that require immediate attention. Additionally, maintaining accurate records and documentation will help you support smooth operations throughout your shifts.

Are you a good fit for Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler)?

To excel as an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler), strong communication skills are essential. You'll need to clearly convey information to both bus operators and riders, ensuring everyone is informed and connected. Excellent problem-solving abilities will help you navigate unexpected challenges, such as route changes or schedule disruptions, while remaining calm under pressure is crucial. Organizational skills are key, as you'll manage multiple tasks simultaneously and maintain accurate records for smooth operations.

Attention to detail will ensure that schedules are precise and that you're able to quickly identify and rectify any discrepancies. Being adept at time management will allow you to prioritize tasks effectively. A collaborative spirit is also important, as you will work closely with a team to enhance overall transit performance and promote a positive environment for both staff and passengers.

About CATA

CATA is a joint municipal authority established in 1974, proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary. CATA serves portions of Centre County, Pennsylvania, including Penn State's 60,000 students and employees at the University Park Campus. CATA provides a critical transportation network that facilitates more than 5 million annual rides through fixed-route, microtransit, paratransit, and commuter services programs. Renowned for its innovative approach to sustainable transportation, CATA was the first public transportation agency operating an entirely compressed natural gas (CNG) fixed-route fleet on the East Coast. The authority also boasts the highest farebox recovery ratio in Pennsylvania, recovering nearly 40% of its fixed-route operating expenses in 2023.

Get started with CATA

Want to get your career on the move? Apply by going to the Careers at CATA website:

Selected candidate will be subject to drug and alcohol testing and criminal background check.

CATA participates in E-Verify. For more information on E-Verify, please contact DHS at 888-897-7787 or dhs.gov/e-verify.

CATA is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business needs.

Job Description

Join Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) as an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler). This role places you at the heart of our transportation network, where every day presents unique challenges and opportunities to make a real difference. You'll play a key role in ensuring efficient and timely transit services for the State College community, enhancing the daily commute experience for countless individuals.

Starting salary: $18.44 per hour

Benefits include paid time off (vacation, sick, holiday, etc.), health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), 401(a), 457, Roth IRA, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, life insurance, long-term disability, short-term disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), free gym membership, and free transit pass. CATA is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.

What does an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler) do?

As an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler), your day-to-day responsibilities will be both engaging and impactful. You'll review schedules and ensure optimal bus routes to meet the needs of our riders. Constant communication with drivers is key - you'll be on the phone or via radio to coordinate real-time adjustments and handle any unforeseen issues. You'll respond to customer inquiries and provide essential information about routes and schedules.

Problem-solving will be at the forefront of your role, as you'll need to assess and respond to various scenarios that require immediate attention. Additionally, maintaining accurate records and documentation will help you support smooth operations throughout your shifts.

Are you a good fit for Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler)?

To excel as an Operations Specialist I (Dispatcher/Scheduler), strong communication skills are essential. You'll need to clearly convey information to both bus operators and riders, ensuring everyone is informed and connected. Excellent problem-solving abilities will help you navigate unexpected challenges, such as route changes or schedule disruptions, while remaining calm under pressure is crucial. Organizational skills are key, as you'll manage multiple tasks simultaneously and maintain accurate records for smooth operations.

Attention to detail will ensure that schedules are precise and that you're able to quickly identify and rectify any discrepancies. Being adept at time management will allow you to prioritize tasks effectively. A collaborative spirit is also important, as you will work closely with a team to enhance overall transit performance and promote a positive environment for both staff and passengers.

About CATA

CATA is a joint municipal authority established in 1974, proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary. CATA serves portions of Centre County, Pennsylvania, including Penn State's 60,000 students and employees at the University Park Campus. CATA provides a critical transportation network that facilitates more than 5 million annual rides through fixed-route, microtransit, paratransit, and commuter services programs. Renowned for its innovative approach to sustainable transportation, CATA was the first public transportation agency operating an entirely compressed natural gas (CNG) fixed-route fleet on the East Coast. The authority also boasts the highest farebox recovery ratio in Pennsylvania, recovering nearly 40% of its fixed-route operating expenses in 2023.

Get started with CATA

Want to get your career on the move? Apply by going to the Careers at CATA website:

Selected candidate will be subject to drug and alcohol testing and criminal background check.

CATA participates in E-Verify. For more information on E-Verify, please contact DHS at 888-897-7787 or dhs.gov/e-verify.

CATA is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business needs.