Senior Research & Education Associate (Part-Time/Remote) 

TITLE: Senior Research & Education Associate (Part-Time/Remote) 

ORGANIZATION: Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO) 

OPENING DATE: November 2025 

CLOSING DATE: When filled 

SUPERVISOR’S TITLE: Sr. Director of Planning & Research 

ABOUT AMPO 

The Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO) represents the collective interests of over 400 metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) nationwide. AMPO provides advocacy, technical assistance, professional development, and research to strengthen regional transportation planning and investment decision-making. Through the AMPO Research Foundation, AMPO advances innovation, builds workforce capacity, and shares notable practices across the MPO community. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND CORE RESPONSIBILITIES 

AMPO seeks a Senior Research & Education Associate to support its research and professional development initiatives on a part-time basis. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in the MPO or public sector (20+ years preferred), exceptional writing and communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to teach, mentor, and develop educational content for adult professionals. This role blends program management, applied research, writing, and curriculum design in a collaborative and mission-driven environment. 

Interest Group Management: 

• Coordinate and manage a minimum of two AMPO Interest Groups, including quarterly webinars and coordination calls. 

• Develop agendas, help recruit speakers, and facilitate sessions eligible for AICP credit. 

• Summarize key findings and identify emerging trends or future discussion topics. 

Research & Writing: 

• Author and lead development of state-of-the-practice reports and other AMPO Research Foundation publications. 

• Conduct literature reviews, design and analyze surveys, and synthesize findings into accessible reports and presentations. 

• Assist in research and writing for The Friday Docket, AMPO’s legal newsletter highlighting court cases, litigation, and emerging administrative law issues relevant to MPOs. 

• Support the ongoing maintenance and expansion of AMPO’s Resource Library and related research assets. 

Education & Content Development: 

• Assist in developing and refining content for the MPO Institute, including online courses, webinars, and in-person training workshops. 

• Translate complex technical and policy topics into engaging, plain-language learning materials. 

• Assist in educating MPO practitioners through peer exchanges, presentations, and collaborative research projects. 

Collaboration & Outreach: 

• Work closely with AMPO staff, MPO members, and external partners to support research and education initiatives. 

• Contribute to the development and execution of national AMPO events, including the Annual Conference and bi-annual Technical Symposiums, with roles in program planning, content development, and on-site delivery. 

• Represent AMPO in professional forums, webinars, and other public settings as needed. 

• Monitor and connect members through our member portal forums. 

• Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE PREFERRED 

A Bachelor or Master of Arts or Science degree is preferred, preferably in urban planning, public administration, transportation planning, or a related field. A minimum of 20 years of professional experience is required, preferably with Metropolitan Planning Organizations or an educational or research institution. (An equivalent amount of training, education, and experience will be considered) 

PREFFERED SKILLS 

• Proven record of professional writing, including reports, newsletters, research summaries, and educational materials. 

• Strong skills in survey design, data analysis, and research. 

• Excellent oral communication and presentation skills; experience facilitating or teaching adult learners preferred. 

• Demonstrated ability to manage projects independently and meet deadlines in a collaborative virtual environment. 

• Proficiency in software tools required for communication and data analysis (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, survey design platforms like SurveyMonkey or similar). 

• Expertise in transportation planning, MPOs, and regional policy. 

BENEFITS AND HOW TO APPLY 

Salary and Benefits: This is a part-time position with a starting annual salary range of $45,000 – $60,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. This position does not qualify for healthcare or a retirement plan. 

Travel: This position may require travel to the AMPO Annual Conference, the AMPO Planning Tools & Training Symposium, and other events as needed. 

Virtual Work: This position is eligible for virtual work and does not require residency within the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area. 

Hours: This position is part-time and salary-based, offering no more than 30 hours a week. 

To Apply: Please send a cover letter and resume to resumes@ampo.org . 

Please reach out to Caitlin Cook, Sr. Director of Planning & Research, at ccook@ampo.org with any questions.