Train Dispatcher/Railroad Clerk

BENEFITS: Medical Insurance, Dental and Vision, Flex Spending, STD/LTD, 401(k) including 401(k) Match, Railroad Retirement Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Vacation Time, Paid Personal Time Off, and much more.

Logistic Services Coordinator / Train Dispatcher: Provide functional supervision of train crews, coordinates the on-time operation, as well as the safe and efficient movement of trains and Maintenance of Way (MOW) equipment on the railroad.  Assignments are performed according to established policies and procedures required by the railroad and federal government.   

STARTING WAGE: $29.00 per hour         

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

              Reports to:       Director – Customer Service

                                         Assistant Director – Dispatch and Customer Service

                                         Chief Operating Officer                              

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules, procedures, and regulations for safety, operations and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

• Direct and coordinate railroad traffic, issue permits and authorities, monitor all rail movements and maintain accurate records of all activities.

• Communicate with personnel on weather or any environmental conditions affecting train movement.

• Coordinate movement of trains and maintenance equipment according to operating plan and customer needs

• Report alleged violations of operating rules

• Plan, in advance for smooth and effective movement of priority trains, trains containing hazardous material or restricted shipments, and meets/passes to avoid unnecessary delays

• Manage unexpected events and emergency situations to protect the public, railroad employees, and railroad property

• Respond to safety concerns and take appropriate action

• Maintain familiarity of the territory, including changes in physical characteristics

• Coordinate track usage with Engineering Department personnel

• Accurate data input, document preparation and record maintenance of:

  • Freight inventory,

  • Hazardous material documents,

  • Train list documents, including waybills,

  • Demurrage and interchange records.

  • Maintain yard inventory and provide train and switch lists to train crews.

  • Provide accurate movement information to customers (internal and external)

  • Maintains accurate crew book. Calls crews, arrange cabs and hotel reservations.

• Demonstrates behavior consistent with Iowa Interstate Railroad Purpose and Values.

• Performs other miscellaneous duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• 18 Years of age or older

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Valid Driver’s License

• Computer literate

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate or bachelor’s degree.

• Experience in a dispatching role or similar coordination.

• Prior experience in the railroad industry.

Employment Conditions:

• Work safely, follow standard procedures, be alert and take necessary precautions to prevent on the job accidents and injuries

• Work hours will include a nonstandard workweek (overtime, various shift work, during the week, weekend, nights and holidays)

• Complete annual training and pass safety operating rules examination; must pass required assessments.

• Federal regulations require a negative pre-employment drug test and subject to random testing, reasonable suspicion testing and post-accident testing for drugs and/or alcohol.

• Successfully pass a post-offer / pre-employment medical examination to include, hearing and vision, including color vision and physical capabilities test.

• Ability to use analytical/organizational skills in prioritizing work.

• Ability to communicate effectively (verbally and writing) and establish good working relationships with co-workers, management, train crews and customers (internal and external).

• Must be able to concentrate amid voice and office noise, interruptions and related stress.

• Communicate clearly and effectively verbally and in writing.

BASIC COMPETENCIES:

• Communication Skills are a must, this includes listening, patience, attentiveness, knowledge of company/services, and ability to articulate clearly.

• Verbal comprehension (understand oral and written communications, listen, speak and write clearly and concisely)

• Reasoning skills (problem solving and troubleshooting skills)

• Ability to communicate clearly by radio, intercom and telephone

• Accountability (demonstrate and communicate a high level of ownership and commitment to achieving results)

• Basic math

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Position involves constant (67-100%) viewing of a computer and various other types of close visual work, sitting, repetitive motion and expressing and exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word either on the telephone or in person.  Frequent (34-66%) talking or hearing in person, by radio or on the telephone.  Occasional (10-33%) stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling, climbing, standing, walking and lifting and exerting up to 50 pounds. 

Successful candidates will travel across the IAIS system for field training to ride trains, hi-rails and automobiles. You must be able to safely climb ladders into a locomotive and to walk on ballast.  Overnight travel will occur during training and yearly review of territory.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Position involves working in an office setting and is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions

• Occasional exposure to noise (from diesel engines, air brake equipment, track equipment, sanders, horns, radios etc.)

• Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity and ability to recognize colors

• Demonstrate ability to climb ladders and walk on uneven surfaces

The statements stated in this job description reflect the general duties as necessary to describe the 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.