Dispatcher

A Safe Haven; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A Safe Haven in Chicago seeks a Dispatcher to coordinate citywide transportation for the shelter intake program. You will assign and dispatch drivers to 77 community areas, monitor referrals, and adjust schedules in real-time to address delays or high-need situations.

Responsibilities include maintaining two-way communication with drivers, using dispatch software and GPS tools, logging trips and incidents, and collaborating with intake teams, clinicians, and case managers to ensure safe, timely

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in transportation dispatch, logistics, emergency response, or shelter operations.
• Experience with GPS routing software, dispatch platforms, and/or human services databases.
• Excellent communication skills, calm under pressure, and responsive in fast-paced situations.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt to changing conditions.
• Commitment to equity, trauma-informed care, and respectful engagement with vulnerable populations.
• Familiarity with Chicago geography and community areas strongly preferred.
• Successful background check and health clearances.

Responsibilities

• Assign and dispatch drivers to intake and shelter sites across Chicago's 77 community areas based on real-time demand.
• Monitor referrals and transportation requests through The Grove and DFSS One System.
• Adjust schedules dynamically to address delays, surge capacity, or high-need situations.
• Maintain constant two-way communication with drivers and field teams via phone, text, and dispatch software.
• Troubleshoot road issues and coordinate solutions, such as rerouting or emergency pickups; escalate safety concerns as needed.
• Log trips, delays, incidents, and no-shows; assist with reporting for audits and performance metrics.
• Coordinate with intake teams, shelter sites, clinicians, and case managers to ensure smooth handoffs and timely service.
• Participate in daily huddles and planning meetings to anticipate transportation needs.

Skills

Communication skills

Calm under pressure

Multitasking

Trauma-informed care

Equity mindset

Chicago geography

Health clearances

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree preferred

Tools

GPS routing software

Dispatch platforms

Human services databases

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: 311 - Chicago, IL 60612

Salary Range: $18.00 - $22.00 Hourly

Position Summary

The Dispatcher plays a critical role in managing and coordinating daily transportation operations for the citywide centralized shelter intake program. This position ensures timely, efficient routing of vehicles; maintains real-time communication with drivers and field staff; tracks trip progress using technology platforms; and prioritizes client safety and service responsiveness.

Key Responsibilities

Trip Coordination & Scheduling

• Assign and dispatch drivers to intake and shelter sites across all 77 Chicago community areas based on real-time demand.


• Monitor incoming referrals and transportation requests through The Grove and DFSS One System.


• Adjust schedules dynamically to address delays, cancellations, surge capacity, or high-need situations.

Real-Time Communication

• Maintain constant two-way communication with drivers and field teams via phone, text, and dispatch software.


• Troubleshoot issues on the road and coordinate solutions, such as rerouting, emergency pickups, or on-site support.


• Escalate safety, behavioral, or medical concerns immediately to the appropriate supervisor or clinical team.

Technology & Data Tracking

• Utilize transportation management software, GPS tracking tools, and DFSS systems to monitor vehicle locations and client transport statuses.


• Log all trips, delays, incidents, and no-shows accurately and in a timely manner.


• Assist with reporting and documentation for audits, compliance, and performance metrics.

Collaboration & Service Delivery

• Coordinate with intake teams, shelter sites, clinicians, and case managers to ensure smooth handoffs and responsive service.


• Participate in daily huddles and planning meetings to anticipate transportation needs.


• Support communication across intake, dispatch, and vehicle teams to maintain safety and timeliness.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred


• 2+ years of experience in transportation dispatch, logistics, emergency response, or shelter operations


• Experience with GPS routing software, dispatch platforms, and/or human services databases


• Excellent communication skills- calm under pressure, clear in instructions, and responsive in fast-paced situations


• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt to changing conditions


• Commitment to equity, trauma-informed care, and respectful engagement with vulnerable populations


• Familiarity with Chicago geography and community areas strongly preferred


• Successful background check and required health clearances

","IsExpired":false}