Train Dispatcher

Train Dispatcher Location:

Rutland Vermont Rail System, an award-winning network of affiliated shortline railroads in Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York, is hiring train dispatchers to supervise rail traffic of all seven member railroads and their fourteen related territories across the system. This fast-paced position will keep you alert when fielding calls from train crews, maintenance-of-way production gangs, signal maintainers, municipal authorities, and the public regarding train operations, railroad track maintenance, and emergencies that can occur along the tracks. Prospective employees will be trained to take incoming calls and learn how to make inquiries to gain the correct information to safely determine the necessary course of action. Prospective employees will efficiently and safely direct and coordinate rail traffic and on-line work projects via Track Warrant Control, ensuring compliance with railroad operating rules and timely movement of freight and passenger trains. Freight trains can run in any direction at any time, and the Vermont Rail System control center operates 24/7/365. Vermont Rail System's dispatchers work in four shifts: First Shift from 5:45 AM to 2:05 PM Monday to Friday; Second Shift from 1:45 PM to 10:05 PM Tuesday to Saturday; Third Shift from 9:45 PM to 6:05 AM Thursday to Monday (overnights); and a Swing Shift from Saturday to Wednesday comprising all three shifts. Training period will include extensive on-the-job training on all four shifts as well as classroom training during regular business hours. Candidates must be able to multitask and prioritize, when necessary, as the control center features several computer monitors to observe trains, maintenance-of-way crews, and other safety sensitive information effecting the system at any given time. Candidates will need to learn to use speed and distance to calculate run-times and estimated times of arrivals to avoid delays to trains. Candidates can expect to answer 120 to 160 calls per shift. Candidates must be willing and able to learn federal regulations (VRS adheres to GCOR), railroad operating rules, HAZMAT regulations, and security/terrorism regulations. Candidates must have proficient digital literacy skills in the Microsoft Office suite with an ability to learn railroad specific computer software. Candidates must be able to use a computer quickly to ensure critical operations are completed efficiently and safely. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, with secondary education preferred. Strong written and verbal communication skills required.

Ideal Candidates Will:

Be safety conscious and capable of fostering safe work practices that will contribute to the achievement of company safety goals. Administer efficient crew utilization and timely hours of service relief Develop and maintain accurate records Exceed customer expectations whenever possible Have a strong aptitude for utilizing information systems and ability to work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities. Be able to identify and distinguish colors displayed on monitors, switch indicator lights and other safety sensitive indicators Be able to use logic and reason to identify approaches or determine solutions to problem solving Be attentive to detail with the ability to maintain composure during stressful situations Be a quick learner with the ability to grasp and apply key training concepts The statements stated in this job description reflect the general details as necessary to describe the basic function, essential job duties/responsibilities, and job requirements typically required, and should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of the job. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned; including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload. Although the use of Marijuana and other Cannabis Products are legal in the State of Vermont, VRS is federally regulated by the Federal Rail Administration, therefore all potential employees are required to pass a drug test before employment and will be subject to random drug testing throughout employment if hired.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $21.00 per hour Expected hours: 40 - 50 per week

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible schedule Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan

Education:

High school or equivalent (Preferred) Ability to

Relocate:

Rutland, VT 05701: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person