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Dispatcher Job Description: Top Duties and Requirements

A Dispatcher is responsible for answering incoming calls and communicating with mobile units to ensure they receive any important messages. Dispatchers will monitor situations by phone or radio, use mapping software to locate the best routes, and keep track of the locations of mobile units.

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What does a Dispatcher do?

A Dispatcher typically works in the transportation industry helping to coordinate and optimize delivery schedules. They will work to resolve any logistical problems that arise such as traffic or other delays. A Dispatcher may also be responsible for updating customer web portals with up-to-date information. Lastly, they must always ensure proper safety procedures are being carried out.

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Dispatcher Job Description Examples:

Dispatcher duties and responsibilities

When writing a job description for a Dispatcher, it’s important to specify the main functions of the role. Some important duties and responsibilities generally required to excel as a Dispatcher include:

  • Using Global Positioning Systems to monitor the location of the drivers
  • Communicating with brokers, carriers, and customers
  • Directing and organizing logistics activities that may include obtaining shipping rates or negotiating with service providers
  • Ensuring carrier compliance with company policies and procedures
  • Ensuring prompt receipt and delivery of equipment to and from customers
  • Coordinating deliveries with other work units or departments
  • Dealing with conflict and being able to solve it quickly

Dispatcher skills and qualifications

A successful Dispatcher candidate will have various skills needed to excel on the job. Some examples of the prerequisite skills and qualifications needed by a Dispatcher include:

  • Customer service skills
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Knowledge of GPS systems and geography
  • Multitasking skills
  • Ability to resolve conflict and solve problems
  • Knowledge of basic computer programs and aptitude to learn new software systems
  • Excellent communication skills

Dispatcher experience requirements

In some cases, prior work experience as a Dispatcher is not necessary. However, if the role does require experience, then two to three years of experience is generally appropriate. A job applicant should also have experience with shift work when applying to a Dispatcher role, as many organizations require work to be performed around-the-clock. Some jobs will require that the job applicant have experience managing multiple projects or customers at one time.

Dispatcher education and training requirements

Job applicants should generally have at least a high school diploma to be considered for a job as a Dispatcher. Additional education or training may not be required because it is provided upon hiring. That said, some may require a candidate to have a bachelor’s degree or four-year college diploma in logistics, supply chain management, or business. Some job applicants may have also obtained additional vocational certification for various skills like communications.

Dispatcher salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Dispatcher is $19.45 per hour. However, this may depend on many factors including experience, location, expected shift, or the company that is hiring.

Job description samples for similar positions

If a Dispatcher isn’t quite what you are looking for, other related job descriptions include:

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Dispatcher job description FAQs

What should you look for in a Dispatcher's resume?

For roles that will be working in emergency services, a job applicant should have experience working in a high-stress and fast-paced environment. A good Dispatcher resume will have additional vocational training such as conflict resolution or negotiation. If the applicant will be working in transportation and logistics, a good resume will have experience working with maps or training in geography.

What makes a good Dispatcher job description?

Being as descriptive as possible will help to find great job applicants. That means having a brief introduction of the organization, stating the location of the job and whether the position is a part-time or full-time role. The job description should also include if the role will be working with sensitive content or in a fast-paced environment. If the role requires rotating, evening or overnight shifts, the job description should include this detail as well.

How can you make your Dispatcher job description stand out?

To make your Dispatcher job description stand out, list what kind of training will be provided for the successful applicant. If the role is offering a competitive salary, be sure to list that or even include the salary range. If the position is eligible for a performance bonus, including it will help to make the job description stand out.

What qualities make a good Dispatcher?

A successful candidate can remain calm in stressful situations. A good Dispatcher will also possess empathy and sympathy. They should be able to relate to the person they are communicating with and respond in an appropriate manner. Having good judgment is also important for a Dispatcher job applicant to have.

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

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