Dispatch and Operations Lead

For full consideration for an interview, applicants will be asked to provide a narrative text response in the application to supplemental questions in the application, or you can attach your supplemental responses document in Step 3 entitled "Attachments." NOTE: Once your application is submitted, you will not be able to make edits.

Supplemental Screening Question #1: Please describe the skills and experiences you have developed in prior positions that have prepared you for this supervisory role.

Supplemental Screening Question #2: Please explain how you have used spreadsheet software to analyze data, identify issues, and support decision-making in your previous roles.

Supplemental Screening Question #3: A requirement of this position is to obtain a CA Class B Commercial License with Passenger Endorsement and air brake certification. Are you committed to training for this license within the first 1-6 months on the job? Yes or No Answer will be required

HOW TO APPLY

For full consideration, applicants should attach their resume and cover letter when applying for a job opening. For guidance related to the application process or if you are experiencing difficulties when applying, please review the Applicant Resources on our website.

• How to Apply
• Troubleshooting
• Tips for Applicants
• FAQ's

INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD)

UC Santa Cruz jobs are posted until filled. All application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring team for consideration. NOTE: Applicants who miss the IRD are still encouraged to apply; their materials will still be forwarded for consideration if requested by the hiring team. Application materials cannot be accepted outside of the jobs portal. Applications cannot be edited on an applicant's behalf. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link.

The IRD for this job is: 04-02-2026

ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) supports the University mission of academics, research and public service by providing and managing access to UC Santa Cruz and overseeing the planning, design and operation of the facilities and programs associated with parking, transit services, and bicycle/pedestrian circulation.

More information can be found at: https://taps.ucsc.edu/about/careers.html

JOB SUMMARY

The Dispatch and Operations Lead plays a key role in supporting various aspects of transit operations, including dispatch, driver performance, vehicle coordination, customer service, and administrative tasks. This position ensures safe and reliable transit services while adhering to regulatory standards and providing excellent customer service. The ideal candidate will have supervisory experience, strong task management skills, with attention to detail and proficiency with computers and software systems.

This role is ideal for someone with the ability to work in a dynamic and sometimes physically demanding environment, who enjoys a wide variety of responsibilities and thrives in a service-oriented environment. The candidate will bring a positive, growth-oriented attitude and commitment to operational excellence and team success.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

Budgeted Salary: $65,700/annually. Salary commensurate with skills, qualifications and experience.
Under California law, the University of California, Santa Cruz is required to post a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. The salary shown above is the budgeted amount the University reasonably expects to pay and the salary extended should not exceed this posted amount.

Benefits Level Eligibility: Full benefits

Schedule Information:

• Full-time, Fixed
• Percentage of Time: 100%, 40 Hours per Week
• Days of the Week: Mon-Sun, TBD
• Shift Includes: Day, Evening, Nights, Weekends

Employee Classification: Career appointment

Job End Date: None

Work Location: UC Santa Cruz Main Campus

Union Representation: Non-Represented

Job Code Classification: TRANSIT SVC SUPV 1 (005042), Grade 20

Travel: Never or Rarely

JOB DUTIES

65% - Transit Operations and Management Support

• Supervise employee performance, ensuring adherence to job standards, required training, certifications, and licensing.
• Conduct annual performance evaluations and assist in the selection, development, and evaluation of staff.
• Audit driver time sheets and ridership data to ensure accurate records.
• Assist in assigning drivers to vehicles, routes, and shifts based on operational needs.
• Monitor vehicle locations and ensure on-time performance through transit software.
• Update transit software to reflect service disruptions, delays, accidents, or vehicle breakdowns, ensuring accurate records for vehicles, drivers, and routes.
• Coordinate fuel/charge management and oversee transit yard operations.
• Collaborate with Fleet Services personnel to ensure vehicle readiness and maintenance.
• Operate and monitor various transit software systems, including safety systems, telematics, and load management systems.
• Ensure security of vehicles and facilities.
• Adhere to emergency protocols and conduct investigations into accidents and injuries.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulatory transit safety procedures.
• Coordinate bus reservations with clients and transit operators, and update related systems and documentation.
• Ability to drive transit vehicles and fill shifts as needed.

15% - Customer Service and Program Support

• Provide friendly and professional customer service over radio, phone, and email, and resolve feedback tickets.
• Offer timely updates to management and assist in communicating service changes or delays to riders.
• Conduct in-person surveys and site visits to assess customer satisfaction and operational efficiency and safety.
• Assist passengers with mobility needs in and out of disability vans with a helpful and courteous manner and operate wheelchair ramps and securing systems on applicable vehicles.
• Perform basic bicycle maintenance and repairs, including checking and adjusting brakes, gears, wheels, chains, and tires.
• Assist with conducting bike safety workshops, group rides, and on-bike training sessions.
• Coordinate emergency management tasks, including communications, supply inventory, and traffic control.

15% - Administrative and Clerical Support

• Maintain and update operational tracking logs, providing regular status reports.
• Assist with document management tasks such as formatting, scanning, uploading, and filing.
• Perform data entry, audits, and other clerical tasks as assigned.
• Conduct data collection through site visits, passenger counts, and bike occupancy audits.
• Assist with planning and delivering driver safety training, including curriculum development and software administration.
• Support other transportation-related programs and other tasks as assigned

5% - Class B License Training

• Train to obtain a CA Class B Commercial License with Passenger Endorsement and air brake certification over approximately one month.
• Successfully pass all required DMV testing for Class B licensing as a condition of continued employment.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience and / or training.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including customer service, conflict resolution, de-escalation, and professional, empathetic interaction with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong organizational, prioritization, and multitasking skills, with the ability to work independently and adapt to changing demands.
• Proactive problem-solving experience supported by critical and systems thinking to analyze issues and develop thorough solutions.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, including advanced use of Docs (custom formatting), Sheets (data merging), Slides (complex presentations), and efficient calendar scheduling.
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting, auditing, and building spreadsheets for data storage, cleaning, and analysis using filtering, sorting, pivot tables, and formulas for aggregation, conditional logic, and conditional formatting.
• Demonstrated collaborative approach to work, with experience building positive relationships and contributing effectively as a team player.
• Demonstrated sound judgment, discretion with confidential information, and consistent adherence to organizational policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.
• High learning agility and a growth-oriented mindset, enabling quick adaptation to new tools, technologies, and systems.
• Previous work experience in the transportation industry.
• Previous supervisory experience.
  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency with transit management software, telematics, and safety systems.
• Previous experience operating vehicles in a professional context.
• Basic working knowledge of vehicle mechanics.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Selected candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment criminal history background check.
• Selected candidate must pass the employment misconduct disclosure process.
• Must possess a valid license to drive in the state of California and participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice program.
• Interviewees will be required to provide a current DMV record.
• Must possess, or obtain within 6 months of hire, a valid California Class B license to drive and participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice program. Selected candidates must pass the written test for the CA Class B Commercial skills test within three (3) attempts. If you fail the same test three (3) times, your application is no longer valid with the DMV and you will be released from employment. You must pass this within three (3) tries and/or within 180 days from the date of issuance of your Commercial Learner's Permit.
• Selected candidate(s) must possess a current DMV Medical Certificate and re-certify every 2 years which requires an approved medical certification to drive in the United States and in the State of California.
• Must participate in the DOT Drug Testing Program. In accordance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test and conform and pass the on-going drug and alcohol testing requirements. Continued employment is contingent upon participation in a Drug and Alcohol Testing Program and conform and satisfactorily pass then-going drug and alcohol testing requirements.
• Ability to work long periods of time at a computer with or without accommodation.
• The selected candidate will be required to work all scheduled hours on-site.
• Ability to work a variable schedule including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as directed.
• Ability to work on-call.
• Ability to respond to emergencies after hours as necessary.
• Ability to work near and around support and service animals in accordance with the UC Santa Cruz Service/Support Animal Policy.
• Clery Act: This position has been identified as a Campus Security Authority (CSA); required to report crimes, incidents, and disciplinary referral statistics as required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (20 USC * 1092(f)).
• Ability to maintain appearance and conduct suitable for working in a professional setting.
• Selected candidate will be required to complete training within established time frames as directed including UC compliance training.
• The University of California has implemented a Vaccination Policy covering all employees. Employees, including new hires, are required to comply with any applicable policies relating to the University of California vaccine program.
• Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. CANRA Penal Codes, and related definitions, requirements, and responsibilities may be obtained here.
• Exercise the utmost discretion in managing sensitive information learned in the course of performing their duties. Sensitive information includes but is not limited to employee and student records, health and patient records, financial data, strategic plans, proprietary information and any other sensitive or non-public information learned during the course and scope of employment. Understands that sensitive information should be shared on a limited basis and actively takes steps to limit access to sensitive information to individuals who have legitimate business need to know. Ensure that sensitive information is properly safeguarded. Follow all organizational policies and laws on data protection and privacy. This includes secure handling of physical and digital records and proper usage of IT systems to prevent data leaks. The unauthorized or improper disclosure of confidential work-related information obtained from any source on any work-related matter is a violation of these expectations.

MISCONDUCT DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

SAFETY STATEMENT

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.

It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.