Airlines often have schedule coordinators to manage the various schedules of employees.
A scheduling coordinator is an airline employee who handles a variety of tasks related to setting, changing, and maintaining employee schedules. He or she uses spreadsheets and computer databases to keep track of employee records, create daily and weekly schedules, and make changes as needed. Additionally, a coordinator often acts as a liaison between employees and management regarding policy changes and time off requests. The title of scheduling coordinator can also refer to a human resources manager or employee in another setting, such as a retail store or doctor’s office, who performs scheduling functions.
If a pilot or crew member is unable to come to work, the schedule coordinator may be responsible for finding a suitable replacement.
Creating a schedule for flight attendants and pilots isn’t always as simple as checking their availability, schedules, and preferences. Many major airlines operate several different aircraft and some employees may not have the proper certification or qualifications to work on each type. The scheduling coordinator must review worker credentials and contracts and compare them to regional and national laws to ensure planes are adequately staffed.
A scheduling coordinator can keep track of multiple meetings for their supervisor.
If an attendant, pilot, or other airline employee is unable to get to work, the scheduling coordinator must quickly review plans to avoid delays and cancellations. She typically maintains an electronic list of part-time and on-call workers available to contact in case another employee gets sick or has a family emergency. If the coordinator recognizes employee problems for specific flights, she consults with airline employees and executives to resolve the problem.
A hospital scheduling coordinator may work directly with patients to schedule appointments and procedures.
The requirements to become a program coordinator can vary among employers, but most airlines prefer to hire professionals with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Experience in office environments and customer service positions is very helpful in finding entry-level jobs as a programming clerk or assistant coordinator. An individual seeking a senior scheduling coordinator position may be required to pursue continuing education to obtain a degree or certificate in air transport operations.
An appointment coordinator may work in a dentist’s office.
Scheduling coordinators in settings outside of the civil aviation industry often have similar responsibilities and qualifications. A coordinator at a dental clinic, for example, puts together a work schedule for dentists, assistants, and administrative staff that will meet the needs of their anticipated list of patients. He or she can set and change appointments, make adjustments for vacation and sick days, and keep hourly and wage records. Practical administrative experience and a human resources degree are required for employment in most settings.