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Chief Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bus Dispatcher

Gaylord, MI

$17.87 - $20.89/hr

Description Under the supervision of the Transportation Manager and leadership of the Chief Dispatcher, is responsible for providing dispatch and scheduling for transportation services. Responds to ...

Chief Dispatch Instructor

Englewood, CO · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Chief Dispatcher Instructor develops and leads all training and development programs for FAA and other global CAA licensed dispatchers. This role involves curriculum development and deployment ...

Bus Dispatcher

Gaylord, MI · On-site

$17.87 - $20.89/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Coordinates with the Chief Dispatcher and Transportation Manager for resolution of customer complaints. * Maintains records and receipts. Balances receipts, prepares deposits and enters all data into ...

... Chief Dispatcher" role, managing complex schedules and multi-vehicle convoys. * Knowledgeable of the Defense Transportation System (DTS) and the Federal Management Regulation (FMR) regarding ...

... Chief Dispatcher" role, managing complex schedules and multi-vehicle convoys. * Knowledgeable of the Defense Transportation System (DTS) and the Federal Management Regulation (FMR) regarding ...

... Chief Dispatcher" role, managing complex schedules and multi-vehicle convoys. * Knowledgeable of the Defense Transportation System (DTS) and the Federal Management Regulation (FMR) regarding ...

Bus Dispatch/Driver

Gaylord, MI · On-site

$17.72 - $20.63/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Coordinates with the Chief Dispatcher and Transportation Manager for resolution of customer complaints. * Learns and operates computerized dispatch software program and performs necessary daily back ...

Coordinates with the Chief Dispatcher and Transportation Manager for resolution of customer complaints. Learns and operates computerized dispatch software program and performs necessary daily back ...

Dispatcher

Centennial, CO

$61K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Incident Dispatch Team (IDT), Certified Training Officer (CTO), Public Education Team * Candidates progress through an annual pay progression based on performance and meeting the requirements of the ...

Dispatcher

Centennial, CO

$61K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Incident Dispatch Team (IDT), Certified Training Officer (CTO), Public Education Team * Candidates progress through an annual pay progression based on performance and meeting the requirements of the ...

Dispatcher

Centennial, CO · On-site

$61K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Incident Dispatch Team (IDT), Certified Training Officer (CTO), Public Education Team * Candidates progress through an annual pay progression based on performance and meeting the requirements of the ...

Dispatcher

Centennial, CO · On-site

$61K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Incident Dispatch Team (IDT), Certified Training Officer (CTO), Public Education Team * Candidates progress through an annual pay progression based on performance and meeting the requirements of the ...

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Chief Dispatcher information

See salary details

$37.5K

$79.1K

$172K

How much do chief dispatcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief dispatcher in the United States is $79,133.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief dispatcher do?

A Chief Dispatcher oversees and coordinates the scheduling and dispatching of personnel, vehicles, or shipments to ensure efficient operations. They manage a team of dispatchers, monitor real-time logistics, and handle any issues that arise to maintain smooth workflow. Additionally, they ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations while optimizing routes and resources. Effective communication, problem-solving, and multitasking are essential skills for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief dispatcher?

To thrive as a Chief Dispatcher, you need strong organizational abilities, leadership experience, and in-depth knowledge of logistics or transportation procedures, often supported by industry-related certifications or supervisory experience. Familiarity with dispatch management software, GPS tracking systems, and communication platforms is crucial for efficiently coordinating teams and schedules. Exceptional decision-making skills, resilience under pressure, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this position. These qualifications ensure seamless operations, rapid problem-solving, and effective leadership in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by chief dispatchers, and how are they managed?

Chief Dispatchers often navigate challenges such as last-minute route changes, equipment or vehicle breakdowns, and staffing shortages, all while maintaining operational efficiency. They address these issues by proactively monitoring schedules, leveraging advanced dispatch software for real-time solutions, and maintaining clear communication lines with staff and clients. The ability to remain calm under pressure and quickly adapt to changing situations is vital. By fostering a supportive team environment and implementing contingency plans, Chief Dispatchers help ensure smooth logistics and delivery operations.

How do you become a chief dispatcher?

To become a chief dispatcher, candidates typically need several years of experience as a dispatcher or in transportation management, along with strong organizational and communication skills. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required, and some employers prefer candidates with additional certifications in logistics or transportation management. Leadership abilities and familiarity with dispatching software are also important for this role.

How much do chief dispatchers make?

Chief dispatchers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. They oversee dispatch operations, coordinate communication, and often require strong organizational and leadership skills.

What is a chief dispatcher?

A chief dispatcher is a supervisory role responsible for coordinating and managing the scheduling, routing, and communication of transportation or delivery services. They oversee dispatchers, ensure efficient operations, and often use dispatch software or communication tools to monitor vehicle or personnel movements. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for this position.
More about Chief Dispatcher jobs

What cities are hiring for Chief Dispatcher jobs?

Cities with the most Chief Dispatcher job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Dispatcher jobs?

The most popular types of Chief Dispatcher jobs are:

What states have the most Chief Dispatcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Dispatcher jobs include:

Infographic showing various Chief Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,133 per year, or $38 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 364 rated logistics


Job description

At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you're part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely-helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long-term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!

Job Summary

The Chief Dispatcher is a front-line supervisor position responsible for the management of day-to-day train operations of the territory and unionized Rail Traffic Control Dispatchers (RTC) in order to meet CN's service commitments. The incumbent's primary responsibility is to ensure network fluidity, optimal crew utilization and transportation plan implementation. The Chief Dispatcher oversees the dispatching of trains by providing direction to the RTC based on regional goals and initiatives.  Spearheading the day-to-day operations of a 24/7 function, the role is critical to ensuring the on-time performance of trains, and thus, CN's commitment to customers.

Main Responsibilities Safety Orientation, Understanding, Compliance and Coordinating

       Coach and train unionized employees on safe operating procedures for train movement

       Build safety compliance and improve safety results through regular safety observations; provide feedback (positive and constructive) to subordinates and act on non-compliant behaviour

       Train, audit, and implement standard operating procedures

       Ensure safe operation as measured by accidents and incidents and employee injuries

       Achieve weekly and monthly safety observation expectations and objectives in regards to the safety management plan

Problem Solving and Decision Making

       Maintain teamwork and order among staff, contractors, and internal clients by acting with a sense of urgency to respond to issues as they may arise

       Use operational data in CN systems to identify opportunities to improve asset utilization and service reliability

       Lead crew utilization, track deadheads, recrews and labour cost and act to improve the operations and cost control

Planning and Organizing Workload

       Prepare daily meet plans

       Monitor the oversight of track maintenance, track repairs, and upgrades while overseeing the operation of train movement

       Set recover plans for service exceptions in conjunction with field

       Lead train line ups and train meets and to predict estimated time of arrival and train crew needs

       Align train crews and schedule

       Determine best opportunity to move trains against multiple demands

       Give recommendations to cost control and asset utilization when planning workflow and implementing decisions

General Leadership of Union Workforce

       Communicate company goals and policies to create clear understanding of direction and expectations

       Conduct investigations per collective agreement and issue discipline in collaboration with the leadership team

       Develop and sustain the right employee behaviours with feedback, recognition, reinforcement and coaching

Performance Management, Training and Onboarding

       Evaluate employee performance and review performance expectations, actual performance, and overall performance ratings

       Conduct onboarding conversations to ensure employees are adopting proper work practices, and have the knowledge, tools and understanding to perform their job safely and efficiently

       Identify and coach performance deficiencies, and act to build required behaviour

       Share best practices, information and operational concerns in order to create transparency and clear understanding of CN's direction and expectations

Working Conditions

The role has irregular hours (including nights, weekends, holidays). The incumbent has an overall commitment to safety, while working in conjunction with collective agreement.

Requirements Experience

Industrial Work

       Industrial work experience that demonstrates progression of responsibility and complexity in a safety-compliant environment*

o   Minimum 4 years of supervisory experience of unionized employees*

o   2 years of experience as a Rail Traffic Control Dispatcher*

*Any experience for these above would be considered as an asset

Education/Certification/Designation

       High School Diploma

       Bachelor's Degree in Business or Logistics*

*Any designation education for these above would be considered as an asset

Competencies

       Tracks metrics to achieve ambitious targets and holds self accountable to meet performance expectations

       Inspires others with impactful communications and adapts well to its audience

       Makes informed and timely decisions to succeed

       Collaborates with key internal stakeholders to enable higher productivity

       Continuously displays a customer centric attitude in order to improve the customer's journey

       Addresses risks in a timely manner to eliminate them

       Time management

       Project management

Technical Skills/Knowledge

       Knowledge of operating rules, procedures and policies

       General Microsoft and computer skills; especially with Excel, Word, SRS, SAP, PAP, Applications such as RTBI and DataCity

This position is posted as a grade 8.


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