Transportation Planner

WORK OBJECTIVE: This is a fast-paced position for a transportation planner looking to have a positive impact on regional public transportation through the development of exciting projects and a wide range of long and short term transit planning activities. The employee must have knowledge of urban transit planning principles and computer software (word processing, spreadsheet, database, geographic information systems, and presentation software). The employee works with considerable independence and must be proactive and highly organized to effectively perform multiple tasks of a complex nature. The employee meets with community groups, public officials, and members of the public as a representative of NFTA-Metro on issues related to surface transportation and assigned projects. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such duties are a logical assignment to the position. • Develops and implements proposals for transit system service improvements and modification; develops effectiveness and efficiency measures to accomplish strategic goals; ensures compliance with federal and state requirements and contract provisions. • Manages consultants independently including keeping planning projects on budget and on schedule; provides technical assistance in project planning, report development, and ad hoc projects. • Plans and implements community engagement and outreach, both project-specific and general/long term. • Participate in planning and implementation of regional infrastructure projects, as appropriate, and provide recommendations to regional partners and right-of-way owners on improving conditions for transit riders and transit operations. • Prepares and/or reviews effective technical reports presenting comprehensive research and recommendations. • Attends and supports the Citizen's Advisory Committee (CAC) and Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC), as needed. • Assist in the development of project policies and procedures to guide the development of a sound transportation plan for the region. • Coordinates with other departments to develop strategic initiatives and build consensus around policies moving forward. • Assist in the development of projects that reduce the use of cars, encourage walking and cycling, and promote the use of public transport. • Prepares and presents proposals using PowerPoint or similar programs. • Provides regular monthly, quarterly and annual reports on planning projects and activities to internal and external audiences. • Work with project managers and various organizations, community groups, municipalities and NFTA departments to ensure the projects are advancing and funding is expended on schedule and grant requirements are met. • Evaluates the benefits and cost of different transportation strategies and initiatives. • Coordinate technical aspects of planning projects with both internal disciplines and external consultants and sub-consultants. • Performs additional duties and tasks as assigned. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES: Must possess knowledge of the general principles of transportation planning. Knowledge of urban transit planning principles and techniques to analyze service issues and develop solutions. Strong writing and oral presentation skills, including to large groups, public officials, and/or members of the general public. Ability to think analytically and propose and implement new solutions to transit service planning challenges. Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office computer software (word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software). Ability to learn and utilize new and proprietary software and to modify and customize features to produce output specific to the needs of the Authority. Ability to respond effectively and make sound decisions in unplanned and emergency situations. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Task may also involve observation or field inspection outside of an office environment. ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS: Work is performed in usual office conditions with rare exposure to disagreeable environmental factors. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Excellent oral and written communication skills. Intermediate or higher geographic information systems (GIS) skills. Must be proficient with MS Word, PowerPoint and MS Excel. Bachelor's Degree in Urban/Transportation Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or related field, and three years responsible experience in transit planning, planning related activities, or other similar field of practice. Persons with an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered. Master's degree in the aforementioned fields preferred. NOTE: TO APPLY: Send NFTA employment application, resume and cover letter specifying the job number 142-24-N to: NFTA Human Resources 181 Ellicott Street Buffalo, NY 14203 Or email to: application_intake@ OTHER: The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Created: 2024-11-02