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Transit Dispatcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Where breakdowns occur during transit, arrange response by a road repair/towing service. If repowering is required, determine the most expeditious means to dispatch a replacement unit and to ...

Dispatcher

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21/hr

Schedule and dispatch drivers, vehicles or equipment to appropriate locations according to ... transit services to customers throughout the eastern United States.

The Transit Operator (Non-CDL) safely operates Jaunt vehicles while providing reliable, courteous ... Maintain effective communication with dispatch, supervisors, and other operational staff. * Report ...

Chief Transit Operations

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$80K - $141K/yr

Serving as the Chief of Transit Operations for FASTRAN bus services, this position provides ... Monitoring contract dispatch operations to ensure compliance and recommending efficiency ...

Controller/Dispatcher

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$60 - $86/hr

.Hampton Roads Transit is looking for dynamic, customer service oriented, and energetic people to ... a Dispatcher/Rail Supervisor, or at least (3) years as a Transportation Supervisor or, over (4) ...

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Transit Dispatcher information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$21

$33

How much do transit dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit dispatcher in Virginia is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a transit dispatcher do?

A Transit Dispatcher is responsible for coordinating and managing the movement of public transportation vehicles, such as buses or trains. They monitor schedules, communicate with drivers or operators, and respond to unexpected events like delays or emergencies. Their goal is to ensure safe, efficient, and timely transit service for passengers. They often use specialized software and radio equipment to keep operations running smoothly and handle real-time adjustments.

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

To thrive as a Transit Dispatcher, you need strong organizational skills, knowledge of transportation logistics, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dispatch software, GPS tracking systems, and radio communication tools is essential for daily operations. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and calm communication under pressure help you coordinate efficiently and address unexpected challenges. These skills ensure reliable transit schedules, passenger safety, and effective communication between drivers and central operations.

What are some common challenges faced by transit dispatchers, and how can they effectively manage them?

Transit dispatchers often face challenges such as coordinating schedules during unexpected delays, handling high volumes of communication, and responding to emergencies or last-minute route changes. To manage these effectively, dispatchers rely on strong organizational skills, real-time tracking systems, and clear communication with drivers and passengers. Building strong relationships with team members and staying calm under pressure are also crucial for ensuring smooth transit operations and passenger safety.

What is the difference between Transit Dispatcher vs Bus Driver?

AspectTransit DispatcherBus Driver
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, dispatching certification often preferredHigh school diploma, commercial driver's license (CDL)
Work EnvironmentDispatch centers, offices, control roomsOn the road, bus terminals, routes
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, transportation companiesPublic transit agencies, private bus companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for operational roles in transitPassenger service, driving, route management

While both roles are essential in public transportation, a Transit Dispatcher manages schedules, coordinates routes, and communicates with drivers from a central dispatching office. In contrast, a Bus Driver operates the vehicle, transports passengers, and handles on-route responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within the transit industry.

Is it hard to get hired as a transit dispatcher?

Getting hired as a transit dispatcher can be competitive, as it often requires relevant experience, strong communication skills, and sometimes certification or training in transportation operations. Employers typically look for candidates who can handle stressful situations and operate dispatching tools efficiently. Having a clean driving record and familiarity with scheduling software can also improve chances of employment.

What are popular job titles related to Transit Dispatcher jobs in Virginia?

For Transit Dispatcher jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Transit Dispatcher jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Transit Dispatcher jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Transit Dispatcher job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, and 74% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,430 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Transit Dispatcher - Full Time

Town of Blacksburg, VA

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

$43K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Salary : $43,270.00 - $45,018.00 Annually
Location : 2800 Commerce Street, Blacksburg, VA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: Transit Dispatch 090426 FT
Department: Transit
Division: Transit - Operations
Opening Date: 08/13/2026
Closing Date: 9/4/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
General Definition of Work
The Transit Dispatcher performs in a central communications role, coordinating, scheduling, and directing bus operators to ensure the timely and effective operation of public transit and paratransit services. Work is performed under the supervision of the Transit Lead Dispatcher. This position is classified as an essential position during designated planned or unplanned events.
Shift: Schedule may vary depending upon needs.
The set hiring range for this position is $43,270.00 to $45,018.00 annually.
The Town of Blacksburg is an EEO Employer M/F/D/V
Essential Functions
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Provides ongoing direction via two-way radio to bus operators to ensure timely arrival and departure of all route buses on route
  • Assesses and evaluates changing traffic conditions and patterns, and implements route detours through communications and notifications to bus operators and other Transit staff
  • Prepares vehicle assignments and coordinates with the Maintenance, ITS, and CCS divisions regarding vehicle needs and issues
  • Arranges vehicles in garage nightly according to assignment plan to ensure organized and efficient morning pullout
  • Coordinates morning pullout to ensure a timely start of morning service
  • Resolves scheduling issues due to late operators, operator call outs, and open shifts.
  • Approves operator scheduling changes on operator trip sheets and WhenToWork scheduling system and maintains run sheets
  • Provides dispatching and routing services for fixed-route, demand response, and paratransit as appropriate
  • Works with Lead Dispatcher, supervisory staff, and operators in resolving concerns related to dispatch services
  • Prepares daily dispatch report detailing key events and actions occurring during the dispatch shift
  • Creates, maintains, and monitors computerized daily manifests/schedules for dispatching and routing transit services; Modifies and updates schedules to improve services
  • Attends all required safety/staff meetings, training, and other meetings when assigned; Maintains and updates supporting logs
  • Monitors computers, mobile data terminals, and the two-way radio for information regarding various issues; Notifies the supervisor of situations requiring attention
  • Operates fixed route and paratransit vehicles as necessary
  • Works directly with customers in resolving issues, if necessary

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the safe operation of transit buses
  • Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public transit operations dispatching duties
  • Thorough knowledge of the geography of the service area
  • Thorough knowledge of area traffic laws
  • Thorough knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of large scale operations
  • General knowledge of computer software applicable to public transit
  • Ability to plan and schedule the work of rotating staff
  • Ability to operate transit vehicles safely and efficiently
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, public safety staff, and the general public

Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or GED is required
  • Experience in public transit service operations as a transit operator, including some supervisory experience is desirable

Special Requirements
  • Valid commercial driver's license (Class B with Air Brakes and P endorsement) in the Commonwealth of Virginia with a satisfactory driving record
  • This is a safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing guidelines as set forth by the Federal Transit Administration and the US Department of Transportation in 49 CFR Part 40, and Part 655, as amended.
  • A pre-employment drug screening is required for this position
  • Drug and alcohol testing guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration, will be followed during the employment period

Physical Requirements
  • This work requires the frequent exertion of up to 10 pounds of force and occasional exertion of up to 50 pounds of force
  • Work regularly requires speaking or hearing, using hands to finger, handle or feel and repetitive motions, frequently requires sitting, reaching with hands and arms and lifting and occasionally requires standing, walking, climbing or balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, tasting or smelling and pushing or pulling
  • Work has standard vision requirements
  • Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word
  • Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels
  • Work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, using of measuring devices, operating motor vehicles or equipment and observing general surroundings and activities
  • Work occasionally requires working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles and exposure to outdoor weather conditions
  • Work is generally in a moderately noisy location (e.g. business office, light traffic)

The Town of Blacksburg offers a wide range of benefits.
Read more about what we offer