LIFTS DISPATCHER

Linn County; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

IPERS

Wellness program

Free on-site fitness centers

12 paid holidays

Training & professional development

Job summary

Linn County is seeking a LIFTS dispatcher to coordinate and monitor daily transportation services for elderly and disabled riders, ensuring safety and timeliness through route planning, driver coordination, and real-time communication.

This role requires a high school diploma, one year of experience in driving or customer service, and a valid Iowa CDL with air brake and passenger endorsements; typical schedule Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with competitive hourly pay of $22.75.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1 year of experience in paid driving, customer service, or human services.
• Possession of a Valid State of Iowa Commercial Driver's License with air brake and passenger endorsements.

Responsibilities

• Coordinates and monitors daily operations of Linn County’s LIFTS transportation services by receiving ride requests, scheduling drivers, and dispatching vehicles.
• Ensures timely and safe service through route planning, real-time driver communication, and passenger support.
• Maintains operational records, provides backup driving when needed, and supports emergency response efforts.
• Dispatches drivers via two-way radio or digital systems and maintains contact throughout service routes.
• Collaborates with dispatch team and department leadership to continuously improve scheduling and service delivery.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Commercial Driver's License (Iowa) with air brake and passenger endorsements

Job description

LIFTS dispatchers are at the heart of delivering reliable and safe transportation services to the Linn County community!Join our team and be a part of the mission to improve our customer's independence, autonomy, and health & wellbeing!

Why work at Linn County?

• Competitive wages with annual pay increases & annual cost of living increase (depending on budget)
• Access to medical, dental, vision, short & long term disability, and supplemental life insurance
• Iowa Public Employee's Retirement Pension Plan (IPERS)
• Wellness program offering credit on insurance premiums to eligible employees
• Free on-site fitness centers
• 12 paid holidays per year
• Training & professional development opportunities

Hourly Wage:$22.75

About the role:

Coordinates and monitors daily operations of Linn County’s LIFTS transportation services by receiving ride requests, scheduling drivers, and dispatching vehicles to transport elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, and other riders. Ensures timely and safe service through route planning, real-time driver communication, and passenger support. Maintains operational records, provides backup driving when needed, and supports emergency response efforts.

• Receives and logs ride requests; gathers rider information and coordinates trip planning.
• Creates and adjusts daily driver schedules and trip manifests based on timing, geography, and service demand.
• Dispatches LIFTS drivers via two-way radio or digital systems and maintains contact throughout service routes.
• Provides real-time communication support to drivers regarding passenger needs, route conflicts, or service delays.
• Acts as a substitute driver as needed for emergencies, coverage, or scheduled absence.
• Responds to road calls and mechanical issues in coordination with vehicle maintenance staff.
• Supports and documents emergency evacuations and related actions when applicable.Maintains accurate operational records including ride logs, no-shows, cancellations, and schedule changes.
• Collaborates with dispatch team and department leadership to continuously improve scheduling and service delivery.
• Engages respectfully with passengers to resolve concerns and promote a positive customer experience.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.
• Knows the products they personally produce and the customers of each product. Listens to the “Voice of the Customer” and closes gaps between customer expectations and experience whenever possible.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• One (1) year of experience in paid driving, customer service, or human services. Experience driving trucks/vans/buses strongly preferred.
• Possession of a Valid State of Iowa Commercial Driver's License with appropriate endorsements (air brake and passenger) required.

Monday - Friday

8 a.m. - 5 p.m.