Officer Dispatch Job Description
The Officer Dispatch operates under the supervision of a qualified Flight Dispatcher, playing a critical role in ensuring the safe, legal, and efficient execution of flight operations. This position requires meticulous attention to detail, adherence to regulatory and company standards, and the ability to perform effectively in a dynamic aviation environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Flight Planning and Preparation: Assists in the planning or review of flight plans, meticulously verifying fuel requirements and availability. Gathers and evaluates essential operational information, including comprehensive weather reports and Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs). Ensures the aircraft's maintenance status meets dispatch requirements and verifies its airworthiness for scheduled flights. Provides the Pilot in Command (PIC) with thorough briefings on all pertinent safety, operational, and regulatory information.
- Operational Control and Monitoring: Issues accurate and relevant flight documentation to the PIC. Maintains continuous vigilance over weather conditions impacting flight operations. Reports any deviations, unusual conditions, or operational irregularities promptly to the Dispatch Supervisor. Conducts flight watch, continuously monitoring all active flights to ensure adherence to established dispatch protocols and operational procedures. Monitors aircraft turnaround times and ensures crew readiness for subsequent departures.
- Crew Management and Coordination: Coordinates crew assignments, ensuring all assigned personnel meet necessary competency, training, and regulatory requirements. Monitors compliance with flight and duty limitations for crew members. Manages crew schedules, handles necessary crew changes, and tracks attendance. Liaises with crew schedulers to address disruptions, including those caused by crew sickness.
- Aerodrome and Infrastructure Management: Coordinates with relevant parties regarding aerodrome facility maintenance. Ensures flights are not dispatched to locations experiencing serviceability issues. Obtains necessary clearances for runway usage as required.
- Data Management and Documentation: Accurately enters and maintains flight release data within the designated operational systems. Ensures systematic filing and proper documentation of flight releases and all other critical operational records.
- Emergency Response and Liaison: Becomes thoroughly familiar with and adheres to the procedures outlined in the Emergency Response Manual. Coordinates effectively with other operational departments to facilitate timely flight departures and to efficiently manage any emergencies or technical challenges that may arise.
Working Environment:
The Officer Dispatch operates within a demanding and high-pressure environment, holding responsibility for the safety of flights and valuable assets. The role necessitates the ability to make swift, informed decisions based on detailed operational data and to maintain composure during emergency situations. This position requires flexibility and the ability to work varying shifts, including morning and afternoon schedules, with potential for occasional overtime.
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Demonstrated academic achievement, typically evidenced by good results in G.C.E A/L examinations or equivalent.
- Extensive proficiency in utilizing MS Office suite software.
- Exceptional communication abilities, both written and verbal, in English.
- Possesses strong analytical skills for evaluating complex operational data.
- Ability to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Previous experience in a similar operational role within the aviation industry is considered a valuable asset.