Transit Planning Manager

Advertised Job Title: Transit Planning Manager
Internal Job Title: Manager of Planning & Analytics

Maintaining efficiency and economy in operations management requires flexibility in job assignments. While each employee shall have a primary responsibility for the job in which that employee has been hired or later promoted to, each employee may be expected to perform other jobs from time to time.

SUMMARY:

The Manager of Planning and Analytics manages MTS service planning tasks, evaluates the performance of existing services, develops proposals for new service, and recommends improvements to transit service quality, productivity, and efficiency. Additionally, the Manager of Planning and Analytics will oversee the advancement of the department’s analytical capabilities. This position requires advanced knowledge of transportation systems, policy analysis, and data-driven decision making.

• Supervises staff (Associate/Senior Planners and Data Analysts) and consultants.
• Evaluates the performance of existing services and identifies trends requiring more in-depth analysis.
• Conducts bus and light rail service studies and recommends improvements to transit service quality, productivity, and efficiency.
• Oversees the development, implementation, and management of comprehensive transportation plans and programs.
• Manages planning activities that support service change implementation, coordinating closely with bus, light rail and contract service departments to implement changes in compliance with local, state, federal, and environmental regulations.
• Develops proposals for transit service based on service evaluations and regional goals.
• Oversees the development of advanced analytical capabilities, projects, and initiatives in areas such as GIS and automatic passenger counters.
• Organizes and attends public meetings, outreach activities and community events.
• Presents oral and written reports to governmental bodies, private organizations and the general public.
• Coordinates with area transit operators, community groups and other agencies.
• Represents MTS on various project and planning committees.
• Engages directly with community members and riders to address concerns, gather input, and improve services.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Possess a bachelor’s degree in transportation planning, engineering, geography, urban studies or a related field. Five years of full-time professional work experience in transit planning and/or transit operations with increasing responsibilities is preferred. Must demonstrate substantial knowledge and the ability to perform the specific job functions. Must possess and maintain a valid California Driver License or be able to utilize alternative transportation when needed to perform job-related essential functions.

Knowledge of or ability to learn MTS policies and regulations; ability to read, understand and apply MTS policies, regulations and union labor contracts; ability to write letters, memoranda and reports using clear, concise and grammatically correct English; ability to speak clearly, distinctly and effectively in person-to-person or small group situations using tact and diplomacy; ability to coordinate and initiate actions necessary to implement decisions and delegate responsibilities to appropriate personnel; ability to establish and maintain priorities in order to complete assignments by deadlines without detailed instructions; skill in verifying the accuracy and completeness of forms and reports; skill in effectively supervising subordinates in order to achieve company goals; knowledge of the Microsoft 365 Suite and the ability to learn and use other software that MTS might have or acquire; ability to effectively multi-task and work well under pressure; knowledge of MTS Bus and MTS Rail services; ability to foster collaborative and productive working relationships with internal staff, outside agencies, community groups, and other stakeholders; knowledge of state and federal environmental and civil rights requirements for planning (including NEPA, CEQA, Title VI, and EJ); ability to organize and successfully run public outreach programs, meetings, and events to obtain meaningful community input on MTS projects; familiarity with transit operations, scheduling, and facilities planning; knowledge in statistical, GIS, and database software preferred.

Must satisfactorily pass all applicable examinations including, but not limited to, a pre-employment physical, drug screen and background check.

SALARY GRADE:
The anticipated starting pay for this position is between $106,000 - $119,000. This range represents the expected starting salaries for new hires, typically within the lower to mid-portion of the overall salary range, which encompasses the full potential earnings for the role. Candidates with salary expectations outside the anticipated hiring range are still encouraged to apply.

Salary offers are based on factors such as the knowledge, skills, abilities, and relevant experience of the successful candidate, while taking into account internal equity, budget constraints, and other market factors. This position is in salary grade #12, which has a minimum of $105,026 and a maximum of $149,137. Salary grades are typically adjusted annually to ensure they remain market competitive.

MTS offers competitive benefits including, but not limited to, medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, paid time off, retirement plans, and wellness programs. 

Additional perks and benefits include: 

• Up to 13 employer-paid days off per year, including 3 floating days  
• Free transit pass for you and your family  
• On-site gym and gym membership reimbursement  
• Walk, run, and bike event reimbursement  
• Employer-paid bereavement leave and jury duty  
• Tuition reimbursement  
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility  
• Company-paid training and professional development opportunities  
• And much more! 

DISCLAIMER: The above described job elements are intended to indicate the general nature and levels of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities and skills required of employees so classified. Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

EEO is The Law - Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled 

MTS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer with an ongoing commitment to treat all people, including customers, co-workers and the public at large, with dignity and respect. As a public transportation agency, MTS is committed to providing an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and live.

MTS supports and promotes an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. MTS recruits, hires, trains and promotes individuals without regard to race, such as hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age (40 years or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition (cured or rehabilitated cancer), physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, genetic information (including family medical history), military or veteran status, or any other protected class.

MTS encourages veterans, military spouses and people from different backgrounds to apply for open positions for which they are interested. Additionally, MTS employees are encouraged to refer qualified candidates from all backgrounds and age groups. At MTS, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.