How much does a dispatcher make?

In the U.S., pay can differ with experience, extra skills or certificates, and the kind of employer; BLS data also show differences by industry and location. Some dispatchers work long weeks, and overtime or nonstandard-shift pay can add earnings.

Schedule and dispatch workers, work crews, equipment, or service vehicles for conveyance of materials, freight, or passengers, or for normal installation, service, or emergency repairs rendered outside the place of business. Duties may include using radio, telephone, or computer to transmit assignments and compiling statistics and reports on work progress.

What's a typical day like?

At a desk, a dispatcher checks requests and schedules, then sends the right truck, bus, or repair crew by phone, radio, or computer. They track teams and equipment, handle changes, warn crews about traffic or weather, and keep records.

Most U.S. dispatcher jobs ask for a high-school diploma or GED and provide on-the-job training, so people often start after high school. FAA aircraft dispatchers must pass tests and be at least 23 to earn their certificate.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like keeping things organized and building and doing.

In one U.S. rail-dispatch study, seven dispatchers worked side by side, each managing a different territory and coordinating with train crews by radio.