If you’re looking for an opportunity to shape the future of regional transportation, then the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) may be the right place for you! The Assistant Regional Planner Limited Term position in the Integrated Planning & Programming department offers an entry-level opportunity to be at the forefront of developing innovative financial strategies and mechanisms that support the preservation and efficient operation of our transportation system. This position will support the agency’s Federal Project Selection, Monitoring, and Management program. Under general supervision, the Assistant Regional Planner will support SCAG’s regional call for projects selection process for Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) and Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) funds apportioned to the SCAG region. In addition, the Assistant Regional Planner will assist with the tracking of selected projects’ programming and implementation.
The Integrated Planning & Programming department is dedicated to ensuring SCAG complies with our obligations as the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the region. This includes complying with Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) programming requirements and MPO selection of federally funded projects. Additionally, the department supports and coordinates transportation planning activities for the Connect SoCal update, prepares and coordinates transportation revenue and cost estimate, develops and coordinates funding strategies, and leads congestion pricing studies and pilot initiatives. The team also prioritizes transportation system preservation activities and supports strategic, integrated transportation planning initiatives.
WHO WE ARE
As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG’s values. SCAG’s workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered.
SCAG operates as a hybrid organization because we recognize that work can be successfully performed in various locations. Designing a work environment and culture where SCAG’s mission, effectiveness, and collaboration can be more flexibly served demonstrates our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) by supporting work-life balance for our employees, retaining our existing dedicated staff, and increasing access to new talent pools.
As part of our Work@SCAG hybrid approach, employees’ eligibility in the three work models (office, hybrid, remote) will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties at the discretion of management. All work models require employees to work from a location based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to be in the office 1 day per week.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
MISSION
To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.
VISION
Southern California’s Catalyst for a Brighter Future.
SCAG CORE VALUES
Be Open: Be accessible, candid, collaborative and transparent in the work we do.
Lead by Example: Commit to integrity and equity in working to meet the diverse needs of all people and communities in our region.
Make an Impact: In all endeavors, effect positive and sustained outcomes that make our region thrive.
Be Courageous: Have confidence that taking deliberate, bold and purposeful risks can yield new and valuable benefits.
Cultivate Belonging: Embrace differences, foster equity, champion inclusion, and empower all.
In this role you can expect to
Support regional call for projects, including developing the schedule, drafting sections of call applications, participating in meetings with potential project applicants and county transportation commissions, and reviewing applications.
Assist the Principal Planner in tracking federal obligations, and timely use of funds for selected projects by engaging with agency staff and synthesizing pertinent details.
Ensure the selected projects are programmed in the Federal Transportation Improvement Program.
Support coordination, communication, and engagement efforts with county transportation commissions, local agencies, and Caltrans.
Assist with program management, including meeting support, file management, updating reports, and tracking project status.
Attend and synthesize important details from federal, state, regional, and local meetings.
Perform other duties as assigned.
What you’ll bring to this role
A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.
Knowledge of transportation planning and programming principles, and familiarity with federal transportation funding, programming strategies and data sets used by major MPOs, cities and counties to support transportation planning and programming.
Knowledge of the Southern California region and local challenges, including knowledge of regional challenges and opportunities related to transportation planning and programming, and familiarity with stakeholder agencies and organizations.
Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local planning laws, codes, and regulations.
Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis.
Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships and collaboration with stakeholders.
Ability to conduct research and prepare recommendations.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including presentation and public speaking skills.
Supplemental Information
Please note, this posting will remain open until July 11, 2024, with the first application review taking place on June 27, 2024. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. We anticipate interviews for this position will be held in five weeks.
Job Type: Hybrid.
Link to Job Posting and to Apply: Click Here
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