What is a train dispatcher and how to become one

Key steps to become a train dispatcher

1. Explore train dispatcher education requirements

   Most common train dispatcher degrees

   Bachelor's

   49.1 %

   Associate

   20.7 %

   High School Diploma

   14.1 %

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2. Start to develop specific train dispatcher skills

   Skills	Percentages
   Emergency Situations	15.30%
   Train Movement	11.59%
   FRA	9.11%
   Emergency Calls	8.80%
   Federal Safety Rules	5.34%

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3. Complete relevant train dispatcher training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New train dispatchers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a train dispatcher based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real train dispatcher resumes.

4. Research train dispatcher duties and responsibilities

   • Manage and organize project teams internally during implementation of new CMTS system.
   • Call and assign train crews (i.e., engineers, conductors and brakeman) for rail yard and over-the-road train operations.
   • Train HAZMAT awareness and CPR.
   • Devolve and implement course outline and syllabus.

5. Prepare your train dispatcher resume

   When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your train dispatcher resume.

   You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a train dispatcher resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

   Choose from 10+ customizable train dispatcher resume templates

   Build a professional train dispatcher resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your train dispatcher resume.
   

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6. Apply for train dispatcher jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a train dispatcher job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams