The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking a talented Principal Regional Planner to spearhead the agency’s Federal Project Selection, Monitoring, and Management program in the Integrated Planning & Programming department. Under the direction of the Federal Transportation Improvement Program Planning Supervisor and the Manager of Integrated Planning & Programming, this position will lead SCAG’s regional call for projects selection process for Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds apportioned to the SCAG region. In addition, this position will track programming and implementation of selected projects, including other federal funds selected by SCAG, including the Carbon Reduction Program (CRP).
The Integrated Planning & Programming department is dedicated to ensuring SCAG complies with all our obligations as the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the region. This includes complying with the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) 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. All work models require employees to work from a location based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to be in the office one to two day(s) 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.
In this role you can expect to
-Conduct regional calls for projects, which will entail coordination with other SCAG staff, regional, state, and federal partners.
-Track programming, obligation, timely use of funds, and implementation of selected projects and overall STBG, CMAQ, and CRP fund administration.
-Develop subsequent call processes.
-Coordinate with partner agencies.
-Represent SCAG at external meetings (committees, standing meetings, workshops, etc.).
-Present and provide support for communication of technical and policy matters related to the Federal Project Selection, Monitoring, and Management Program at SCAG’s Regional Council, Policy Committees and technical committees.
-Perform other duties as assigned.
What you’ll bring to this role
Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.
A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with seven years of experience in urban planning and design, project management, planning regulations, or a related field and a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
We’ll be a great match if you also have:
-Thorough knowledge of transportation planning and programming principles, and familiarity with transportation analysis tools, programming strategies and data sets used by major MPOs, cities and counties to support transportation planning and programming.
-Experience and ability to develop public policy and to develop and implement programs.
-Knowledge of advanced programming and fund administration principles and concepts.
-The ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships and collaboration with those contacted in the course of work.
-Political astuteness and have experience working with local elected officials and knowledge of regional challenges and opportunities related to transportation planning and programming.
-Effective verbal and written communication skills, including presentation and public speaking skills.
-Knowledge of the Southern California region and local challenges is highly desirable, 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 laws, codes, and regulations.
The information you provide on the application and supplemental questionnaire will be evaluated and used to determine your eligibility to participate in the next phase of the hiring process. Please be advised that failure to provide complete and accurate information in the application and supplemental questionnaire may result in disqualification of your application even if you possess the qualifying experience or education. Please be as specific as possible and include all information as requested. Comments such as “see resume or application” will not be considered as a sufficient response. Please note that all information is subject to verification at any time in the hiring process. Falsification of any information may result in disqualification or dismissal.
Southern California Association of Governments is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, mental condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We strive to embrace and actively support an inclusive and diverse work environment where the personal dignity of each person is recognized, valued, and celebrated. To achieve this objective, we must hire, retain, and inspire the right people to do the right work. Each member of the workforce is charged with contributing diversity of thought through intersectional identities and experiences.
The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, and any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
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