Chief Dispatcher

The District is hiring a Chief Train Dispatcher.  To be considered for this position, the person must meet the posted skills and qualifications.  Internal candidates who meet the posted skills and qualifications receive preference in the selection process.  This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual to use his or her skills in leadership, teamwork, communication, and practical thought to resolve service delivery challenges, improve on-time performance, and pro-actively lead the assistant chief trick train dispatchers and others in the delivery of safe, high quality, efficient, and reliable passenger and freight service.

Description: Chief Train Dispatcher duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Supervises day to day train dispatching operations; provides pro-active on-site real- time managerial leadership during operating disruptions and emergencies.
• Oversees NICTD train dispatchers to ensure their full compliance with operating rules, safety rules, federal regulations, and efficient dispatching practices. 
• Monitors and helps lead the improvement of overall on-time performance. This includes, but is not limited to, recommendations to the Senior Operations Manager and Transportation Superintendent of short-term and long-term corrective action plans for specific trains and operating scenarios.
• Instructs, counsels, and holds accountable employees in proper pro-active duty performance with respect to safety, reliability, timeliness, and operational efficiency.  This includes, but is not limited to, performing efficiency tests for dispatchers and other operating employees to assess and improve their knowledge of operating rules and practices.
• Participates in the development and implementation of schedule changes and Dispatcher Certification.
• Reviews and responds to time claims; may conduct formal investigations consistent with appropriate labor agreements. 
• Develops crew and equipment assignments to ensure efficient use of equipment and employees consistent with collective labor agreements.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Position Skills and Qualifications:   The following skills and qualifications will be considered in the assessment of candidates:

• Two (2) or more years of experience in the dispatching offices of the District or other carrier.  Transportation or supervisory skills similar to, or in support of, train dispatching or operational functions may be considered as qualifying experience in lieu of work or experience in a dispatching office.
• Associates degree or higher in relevant college coursework and subject majors are preferred but not required.
• Work performance record that demonstrates steadily improving performance when compared to quality or service driven metrics is highly preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years experience in railroad operations, including familiarity with commuter rail or high density passenger and/or freight service operations is required.
• Possess a working knowledge of union agreements, federal regulations, and the General Code of Operating Rules.
• Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively in highly stressful conditions.
• Demonstrated service record of superior interpersonal skills and ability to work with the public and employees is highly preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record is required.
• Willingness to work varied shift hours, varied days off, holidays, and extended hours as may be needed to respond to operational circumstances is required.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office products as well as generic computer and keyboarding skills is required.  Advanced proficiency is highly preferred.
• Superior record concerning safety attitude, attendance, interpersonal skills, and work performance is required.
• Solid business writing communication skills are required.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task among competing short-term priorities while consistently maintaining a pleasant disposition is required.

Prior supervisory experience is helpful but not required.  District employees who apply for this opportunity will have their performance and attendance records reviewed as part of their assessment for an interview.

Schedule: The anticipated normal hours of service are 12pm - 8pm, Monday through Friday and is subject to change with the needs of the District.  The specific work schedule will depend on the needs of the service and managerial availability.  The Senior Operations Manager will work with the Chief Train Dispatcher to balance the needs of the service with appropriate amounts of time off.  The successful applicant will be expected to be available for calls during the night, evening, and weekend from on-duty dispatchers and transportation officials.  More information on the specific expectations about availability are available during the interview process.

Supervision:  The position reports to the Senior Operations Manager.  However, the position also must timely respond to the Superintendent of Transportation, the Chief Operating Officer, and designated representatives from the District’s freight service partner.

Salary and Benefits:  Salary range will be based on skills, experience, and consistency with pay structure for others with comparable assignments.  Credit for time served in other railroad employment, including military leaves, will be applied in determining vacation day entitlements.  The benefit package will be the standard set of benefits received by NICTD management.  Details are available during the interview process.  

How To Apply:   Complete the application and submit a written resume outlining education, training, experience, and work history. A cover letter outlining the reasons why you are interested and why you believe you are best qualified is encouraged but not required.
This opportunity is scheduled to close on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 3:00pm.

Apply early for best chance at consideration; the District reserves the option to close this position at any time.
Contact Joseph Cieniawski, Director of Human Resources & Labor Relations, at (219) 874-4221, ext. 268, if you have questions about this opportunity or notice.
 NICTD is an Equal Opportunity Employer

 

NICTD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We strive to have a workforce that reflects the community we serve. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class, assuming the individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations.

NICTD’s complete EEO Policy Statement is available upon request to the District’s EEO Officer, Ms. Laura Harrington, at (219) 874-4221, ext 219; e-mail: laura.harrington@nictd.com.

Applicant Note: This application form is intended for use in evaluating your qualifications for employment. It is not an employment contract. Please answer all questions completely and to the best of your ability. False or misleading statements are grounds for refusal or termination of employment and benefits.

Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law in all employment decisions.