Roadside Controller

Arriva Group; Reading; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Arriva London is seeking a Route Controller to join the operations team. You will monitor live bus services, respond to disruptions, and support drivers and depot teams to maintain safe, reliable and on-time service across the network.

The role requires calm under pressure, clear communication, and quick decision-making in a fast-paced environment. Experience in transport or logistics is valuable; IT skills, including MS Office, are expected. Flexibility for evenings and weekends is necessary.

Qualifications

• Experience in an operational, control room, transport or logistics environment.
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities are essential.
• Ability to make quick, effective decisions under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Monitor live bus services in real time using operational systems and radio.
• Manage service disruptions including delays, breakdowns, accidents, and driver shortages.
• Coordinate diversions, changeovers and relief vehicles as required.
• Keep drivers and depot teams updated on operational issues and performance.

Skills

Operational experience

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Decision making under pressure

IT skills (MS Office)

Shift flexibility

Job description

Are you calm under pressure, highly organised, and passionate about keeping London moving? Arriva London is looking for a Route Controller to join the operations team, helping to keep services running safely, reliably, and on time across the network. This is a busy operational role where no two days are the same. You’ll be responsible for monitoring live bus services, dealing with disruptions as they happen, and supporting drivers and depot teams to maintain service delivery for customers across London. The role would suit somebody who can stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and make quick decisions in a fast-paced environment.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Monitoring bus services in real time using operational systems and radio communication
• Managing service disruption including traffic delays, breakdowns, accidents, and driver shortages
• Coordinating diversions, changeovers, and relief vehicles where required
• Keeping drivers and depot teams updated on operational issues
• Recording incidents and delays accurately
• Supporting service performance and reliability targets
• Ensuring services operate in line with company procedures and safety standards

What We’re Looking For

• Experience within an operational, control room, transport, or logistics environment
• Good geographical knowledge and operational awareness
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• The ability to make decisions under pressure
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• A flexible approach to shifts, including evenings and weekends

Previous bus industry or public transport experience would be beneficial but isn’t essential.

Why join Arriva?

At Arriva, you’ll be part of a team that keeps London moving every day. We offer a supportive working environment, development opportunities, and the chance to build a long-term career with