Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance

What this job is

Schedule and dispatch workers, work crews, equipment, or service vehicles for conveyance of materials, freight, or passengers, or for normal installation, service, or emergency repairs rendered outside the place of business. Duties may include using radio, telephone, or computer to transmit assignments and compiling statistics and reports on work progress.

What they do day to day

• Schedule or dispatch workers, work crews, equipment, or service vehicles to appropriate locations, according to customer requests, specifications, or needs, using radios or telephones.
• Prepare daily work and run schedules.
• Confer with customers or supervising personnel to address questions, problems, or requests for service or equipment.
• Relay work orders, messages, or information to or from work crews, supervisors, or field inspectors, using telephones or two-way radios.
• Receive or prepare work orders.
• Record and maintain files or records of customer requests, work or services performed, charges, expenses, inventory, or other dispatch information.
• Arrange for necessary repairs to restore service and schedules.
• Monitor personnel or equipment locations and utilization to coordinate service and schedules.
• Determine types or amounts of equipment, vehicles, materials, or personnel required, according to work orders or specifications.
• Advise personnel about traffic problems, such as construction areas, accidents, congestion, weather conditions, or other hazards.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 2 of 5 — Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma; some previous work experience or training helps.

Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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