Scheduler

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Scheduler to join our Network team on a permanent full-time basis, working primarily on-site from our Bristol depot in a hybrid capacity. The chosen candidate will be responsible for developing efficient, compliant, and cost-effective schedules for buses and drivers that align with operational and commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Create compliant and effective duties and rosters that integrate network planning, operational limits, driver availability, and trade union agreements, applying the latest recommended First Bus software.
• Assist in tactical scheduling including updating rosters and duties in response to timetable adjustments, operational interruptions, or local authority interventions.
• Contribute to resource forecasting and budgeting by modeling impacts on drivers, working hours, and fleet requirements from planned or potential service adjustments.
• Ensure schedules adhere to trade union agreements, rest regulations, and labor laws to support operational efficiency and employee satisfaction.
• Collaborate across departments including Network Planning, Operations, and HR to align schedules with service quality and delivery targets.
• Support driver retention by incorporating their preferences into duty design where feasible, enhancing workforce wellbeing and operational practicality.
• Generate and maintain data outputs for systems such as EPM, DAS, Ticketer, and BODS to ensure accurate and timely information delivery within business deadlines.
• Assist with bid and tender preparations under the guidance of Network Planner/Planning Manager and Senior Scheduler.
• Adapt schedules for electric vehicle (EV) and fleet-specific considerations, including vehicle capability, charging infrastructure, and maintenance scheduling.
• Maintain timely and consistent schedule production adhering to planning cycles, reviews, and approvals.
• Provide data for performance monitoring to evaluate scheduling impact on cost, efficiency, and staff availability.
• Offer leadership support by deputizing for the Senior Scheduler and assuming additional responsibilities as assigned by senior management.

Required Skills and Experience

• Strong analytical skills with expertise in scheduling and workforce planning supported by data-driven decision making.
• Familiarity with scheduling systems such as Optibus is preferred but not mandatory.
• Preferable knowledge of local geography related to the operational area.
• Effective communication and relationship management abilities, especially in union interaction and cross-department collaboration.
• Desirable understanding of electric vehicle scheduling challenges.
• Proven ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Teamwork skills and the capability to comply with legislative and internal scheduling processes.