POSITION SUMMARY

The Kansas City Southern Railway Company (KCSR) train dispatchers use computers and radio communications to control the safe movement of trains throughout the Company’s (9) nine state network. Not unlike an air traffic controller, Train dispatchers constantly monitor train movement and conditions affecting their movement, taking immediate action when necessary. A computer aided dispatching system assist dispatchers in safely and efficiently routing trains. Exemplifies KCS Vision, Values, and Culture interactions with coworkers, business partners, customers, and stakeholders.

EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Prior supervisory experience, transportation industry (especially railroad), military or air traffic controller experience is a definite plus.
• GCOR Qualified
• MCS (Management Control System) and TMDS (Train Management Dispatch System) experience preferred
• Minimum qualifications must be maintained during the training
• This is a safety-sensitive position subject to toxicological testing

SKILLS

• Superior interpersonal and analytical skills
• Ability to speak clearly read and understand operating and safety rules, exercise superior judgment, analyze problems and develop action plans containing corrective action
• Demonstrate a strong aptitude for utilizing information systems and thrive in a fast-paced, pressure-filled work environment with changing priorities
• Multi-tasking is a must
• Must be able to identify and distinguish colors displayed on a video monitor and video display in order to read track labels, switch indicator lights and other safety sensitive indications.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Direct and coordinate railroad traffic, issue permits and authorities, monitor all rail movements and maintain computerized records of all activities.
• Know assigned territory and keep informed of changes in the physical characteristics or changes in train orders and schedules. Maintain familiarity with scheduled runs, destinations, times of arrivals and departures.
• Communicate with personnel on weather or any environmental conditions affecting train movement, and reroute, stop or change speed of trains.
• Monitor computerized train control panels that indicate location of trains by lights.
• Operate controls to activate track switches and traffic signals. Remotely apply and remove blocking devices.
• Report alleged violations of operating rules and any irregularity relating to the movement of trains.
• Plan in advance for smooth and effective movement of priority trains, trains containing hazardous material or restricted shipments, and meets/passes to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Coordinate track usage with Engineering Department personnel.

TRAINING

Train dispatchers training will encompass classroom, field training as well as dispatcher console side by side training. Travel will be required during the training period; however, the trainee will be compensated in the form of per diem for their travel expenses. Following the training program an optional 30 day console qualification period may occur at the carrier’s discretion.

The duties, responsibilities and qualifications in this posting are representative categories to be used by an applicant in deciding whether to apply for the position. These general guidelines do not constitute an exhaustive list of qualifications or essential functions of the position.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.