Crew Dispatcher (Alaska Railroad- ARW Only)

Job Description

***Please note that for the first six calendar days of this posting, it is only open to ARW represented employees. If, during the initial six days, which ends on October 12, 2026 at 11:59pm , a qualified ARW represented employee(s) applies, it shall be awarded in accordance with Section 52.06 of the ARW Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). If there are no successful ARW represented bidders, this posting shall be extended to October 20, 2026, and will be considered open to all other applicants.***

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

Coordinates train crew resources and terminal support to ensure adequate crew coverage for train and engine service at all Railbelt locations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Coordinates all train crew dispatching activities to ensure adequate personnel are assigned to all train operations. Train crew staff size varies seasonally from approximately 130 to 160 employees. Posts job availability and work assignments, bidding and bumping based on seniority and qualifications, travel support (hotel, airline, ground transportation arrangements), determining crew availability (vacation and sick time, rested status, training), managing the extra board and scheduling rules testing and physicals. Responds to inquiries from employees regarding assignments and potential for assignments. Uses automated DB Launcher Crew Dispatch system, manual lists and reports, and wall display to track pertinent information regarding crews. Responsible for maintaining and entering current information such as start times, tie up and deadhead times, project codes, pay rates and leave status into automated systems.

May perform Timekeeper/Transportation duties as assigned per that position description.

Contributes to team by accomplishing related tasks as needed.

Factor 1 - Knowledge Required

Knowledge of payroll procedures and timekeeping functions is required. Must have a thorough knowledge of the UTU union agreement, and UTU contract bidding and bumping system to include seniority rosters. Must have knowledge of organizational functions, and thorough and comprehensive knowledge of the Transportation Department. Requires computer literacy in operating a personal computer using word processing, spreadsheet, and database management systems such as Word and Excel. Ability to perform basic math computations and skill in operating a 10-key machine. Must be able to work and make critical decisions independently. Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to deal tactfully and courteously with employees. Must be able to drive a motor vehicle and have a valid driver’s license.

Factor 2 - Supervisory Control

Works under the general supervision of the Manager, Crew Resources. Works independently with a minimum of supervision in performance of a full range of work assignments varying from routine to complex, depending on the daily operations of the ARRC. Completes work is reviewed from the standpoint of expected results and/or complaints and feedback from customers.

Factor 3 - Guidelines

Guidelines are established by DOT, FRA, ARRC policies and procedures, 49 CFR, Emergency Response Guidebook, ARRC general orders, timetables and operating circulars, RMI system manual; Union Agreements, and software operating manuals. Some crew dispatch guidelines have gaps or are incomplete, and must use considerable judgment and experience in interpreting and applying procedures. Significant deviations are referred to the supervisor.

Factor 4 - Complexity

While some procedures are defined, there are numerous alternative applications dependent on varying circumstances and situations. In areas where procedures are not defined, must use experience to determine most appropriate approach to deal with situations. Must be able to use judgment in analyzing the situation and determining the best approach or method to use in completion of assignments. Rapidly changing situations may require incumbent to re-evaluate actions taken and new decisions to be made. Requires performing a variety of duties simultaneously, while adhering to strict time limits.

Factor 5 - Scope and Effect

Work has direct impact on railroad operations, finances, and in the execution of operating plans in the areas of crew resource management and terminal operations. Must project a positive image of the ARRC to all customers. Promptness and accuracy could impact other employees, the corporate operations and budget, railroad customers, the environment, and the general public. Failure to comply with union contract provisions result in financial penalties for the ARRC.

Factor 6 - Personal Contacts

Various contacts are made in person, via telephone, fax, and email with internal customers (Marketing and Customer Service, Engineering, Accounting, Transportation, train crews).

Factor 7 - Purpose of Contact

To obtain, clarify, and provide information, resolve problems, answer questions, coordinate work efforts, and provide a variety of services. The contacts ensure efficient terminal operations, maximize coordination of work efforts with terminal superintendents, train crews, and other ARRC departments, and provide accurate information and services to all customers.

Factor 8 - Physical Demands

Work is primarily sedentary.

Factor 9 - Work Environment

General office setting; Work must be performed on a 24/7 basis, therefore, employees must work varying work days and shifts. The volume of work creates a stressful environment, as multiple activities must be done simultaneously under tight deadlines.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED equivalent is required.

Requires computer literacy in operating a personal computer using word processing, spreadsheet, and database management systems such as Word and Excel.

Ability to perform basic math computations and skill in operating a 10-key machine is required.

Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to deal tactfully with internal and external customers.

Must be able to work variable and non-standard shifts, holidays, and weekends.

Must be able to drive a motor vehicle and possess a valid driver's license. In order to be considered, your current three-year driving record must reflect TWO OR LESS violations and no Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Operating Under the Influence (OUI) convictions within the last three years.

Preferred Qualifications:

One year of experience in dispatching or transportation logistics is preferred.  Experience with payroll procedures and timekeeping is preferred.

Additional Required Information

IMPORTANT:

Your application must clearly show how you meet each minimum qualification listed for this position. Do not assume reviewers will infer qualifications from job titles or general descriptions of duties. Applications are screened based on the information submitted.

Include all required and desired qualifications in your Applicant Profile and/or Resume. For any relevant experience, provide the employer name, job title, dates of employment, and whether the position was full-time or part-time.

Failure to provide sufficient information on your application to verify that you meet the minimum qualifications may result in disqualification from further consideration. Applicants who clearly demonstrate that they meet the minimum qualifications will be evaluated along with other qualified applicants and may be considered for the next phase of the recruitment process.

If

you are selected for an interview, then you

MUST

be able to submit a copy of a current driving record that

reflects the past three (3) years of driving history

.

The State of Alaska DMV Driving Records are available online:

https://online.dmv.alaska.gov/onlinedrivingrecords

Contact Information

WORKPLACE ALASKA APPLICATION QUESTIONS & ASSISTANCE

Questions regarding application submission or system operation errors should be directed to the Workplace Alaska hotline at 1-800-587-0430 (toll free) or (907) 465-4095 if