Job Information
TCAT - Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit, Inc. Dispatcher in Ithaca, New York
Salary Range $25.50 - $32.50 Hourly
Position Type Full Time
Education Level High School
Category Transportation
Now Hiring - Dispatcher at TCAT!
Be a logistics hero! Support our operators and keep the system moving.
Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where every minute counts? Love being at the center of activity, solving problems on the fly, and keeping people moving? If you have experience in transit, logistics, dispatching, or any role where you’ve juggled schedules, communication, and “lots of moving parts,” TCAT wants to meet you.
We’re looking for a Dispatcher who enjoys dynamic work, can stay cool under pressure, and is ready to make an immediate impact on public transportation in Tompkins County.
As a TCAT Dispatcher, you are the heartbeat of daily operations. You’ll coordinate bus routes, help Operators get what they need, monitor radio communications, and keep our system running safely, efficiently, and on time. When something unexpected happens (and let’s be honest—transit is full of surprises!), you’re the one who brings order to the chaos.
If you like the idea of being the person everyone counts on, this is your kind of job.
What You’ll Do:
Coordinate Routes & Schedules
Build and manage weekly Operator schedules in compliance with the labor agreement
Assign buses and drivers to ensure smooth service
Handle time-off requests, daily schedule changes, and open work boards
Monitor operator check-ins and departures to keep service on-time
Support drug and alcohol testing coordination
Maintain accurate data in operations software and daily documentation
Own the Radio
Initiate and receive all two-way radio communications
Act as the go-to contact for Operators, mechanics, Transit Supervisors, emergency responders, and other agencies
Manage communications during inclement weather and service disruptions
Support & Guide Operators
Provide coaching, direction, and assistance throughout the day
Enforce attendance and operational policies
Help resolve day-to-day issues
Maintain attendance tracking and timekeeping for payroll
Administer MOD service requests
Keep the Operations Area stocked and organized
And Sometimes…
Drive a transit vehicle in emergencies
Provide backup street supervision when needed
Step in for special events, field work, or other duties as they arise
Work Environment
Primarily office-based with occasional fieldwork
Exposure to weather and diesel fumes when supporting operations
Requires attentive listening, frequent computer use, and occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs)
Who We’re Looking For
High school diploma or equivalent
CDL with passenger & air brake endorsements, or willingness to obtain within 3 months
Experience in dispatching, transit operations, logistics, or fleet management preferred
Strong communication skills and a clear speaking voice
Confidence working independently in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
Solid computer skills (email, spreadsheets, operations software)
Excellent organization, multitasking, and judgment
Ability to apply policies and stay calm under pressure
Willingness to work variable hours—including nights, weekends, holidays
Why Join TCAT?
You’ll be part of a mission-driven team that keeps our community moving. The work is meaningful, the pace is lively, and no two days are exactly alike. If you enjoy problem-solving, collaboration, and being at the center of operations, you’ll feel right at home.
Benefits:
Health Insurance (Excellus BCBS, significant employer contribution)
Vision & Dental (employer-paid)
Life/AD&D, Short & Long Term Disability (employer-paid)
Voluntary employee, spouse, and child life insurance
401(k) with voluntary employee contributions & 10% employer contribution after 2 years
Paid Time Off including 15 vacation days, 7 paid holidays, 5 floating holidays (paid out annually if unused), 7 sick days, and 3 personal days
Employee & Childcare Assistance Programs
Medical FSA & HSA options
Our Mission: To contribute to the overall social, environmental, and economic health in our service area by delivering safe, reliable and affordable transportation and, at the same time, being a responsive, responsible employer.
Apply today and help keep our transit system moving safely and smoothly!