dispatcher

The duties of dispatchers depend on the industry in which they work. However, there are some common tasks, such as:

• route planning: dispatchers use logistics programs and mapping software to plan the routes drivers use when picking up shipments and delivering products. These programs help determine road conditions and the most efficient routes. After deciding on the routes, dispatchers share the information with drivers.
• monitoring a driver's location: dispatchers monitor the whereabouts of drivers sent to pick up shipments or deliver goods. As a dispatcher, you use GPS devices to ascertain drivers' locations. Knowing the locations helps you plan routes and tell customers how far the drivers are from them.
• acting as intermediaries: dispatchers act as intermediaries between customers and drivers by relaying messages between them. For instance, you would relay information concerning a customer's pickup or delivery instructions to a driver. You also tell customers the whereabouts of the drivers who are supposed to deliver their goods or services.
• resolving logistical problems: logistical problems often occur when drivers are on their way to pick up shipments or deliver goods or services. Dispatchers try to resolve logistical problems to ensure delays do not happen. For instance, if drivers get stuck in heavy traffic, you can use GPS applications to determine routes with minimal traffic.
• writing reports: whether you are an emergency or transport dispatcher, you write detailed reports. Your reports assist in facilitating investigations of various incidents. You keep a record of incidents and phone calls for future reference.

Dispatchers usually work inside offices or communication centres. You answer calls from your desk and use computers to record communication updates. Some dispatchers work in specific companies and usually know a lot about their products. This knowledge helps answer any questions that customers ask.

Some dispatchers work in police stations. These dispatchers know where police officers are and which units should be dispatched to different areas. Other dispatchers work on educational sites, where they instruct security guards and designate them to handle incidents occurring on campus. Since the role is office-based, you can work from home or remotely, receiving calls and dispatching teams.

Your colleagues depend on the industry you work in. Whether you work in emergency response or transportation, your colleagues include security officers, police officers and care assistants. You also work with emergency care assistants, logistics managers and warehouse associates. Sometimes, you work with truck drivers and store managers.

Dispatchers work in shifts. The length of these shifts depends on where you work. For instance, when working as a public safety dispatcher in a major city, you work for 12 hours a day. In a week, you work three 12-hour shifts. You may also be required to work during bank holidays, weekends, early mornings and evenings.

Dispatchers are always in demand due to their support of law enforcement officers and paramedics. In addition, the transport and logistics industry is constantly increasing the demand for dispatchers. There are exciting career prospects in transportation, utilities and public safety. When you progress to supervisory roles, you can manage emergency responses. Some dispatchers move to field duties and join response teams. Others move to managerial roles like logistics management.

Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits.

• always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
• many training opportunities
• a range of jobs in your area

A dispatcher is responsible for gathering information from callers and providing assistance by dispatching emergency teams. You talk with the caller to keep them calm until help arrives. Sometimes, you guide callers through emergency procedures. When you work in the logistics industry, you plan transportation routes to ensure prompt delivery of goods. You organize transportation schedules, helping drivers navigate traffic or other delays on the road and make deliveries.

As a dispatcher, you require exceptional communication skills to explain first-aid procedures clearly. Communication skills are also useful in writing reports and filling out caller details in the systems. You have empathy and compassion, often putting yourself in the caller’s shoes. When you are empathetic, you understand the caller’s situation and can help them stay calm. The ability to multitask is also useful since you juggle various duties.

Working as a dispatcher is highly demanding since you receive urgent calls throughout your shift. You also deal with constant bursts of adrenaline since every caller requires different types of help. Most call centres and offices with emergency dispatchers offer regular breaks throughout the shift to help you remain calm. The role of logistics and transportation is also demanding since you plan transportation routes and ensure prompt deliveries. However, with good organizational skills, you can accomplish your duties with ease.

As a dispatcher, your take-home salary depends on your area of specialization. The average salary for dispatchers is $45,791 per year. When you are new in the role, you receive a salary of $37,050 annually. As your experience increases, your earnings also increase, and you can receive a salary of $60,388 yearly.

As a police dispatcher, you monitor the movements of police officers and direct them where they are needed. Your job is to share critical information in real time and respond to problems effectively. You also run licence plate checks and check wanted person enquiries when requested by police officers in the field.

Finding a job near you as a dispatcher is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.