Under the general direction of the Deputy Chief, Transit Operations Planning, the Transit Planner performs a variety of duties supporting the District's planning efforts including service planning, capital improvement planning, FTA reporting, data gathering, data analysis, GIS data manipulation, and communication with both a variety of governing bodies and customers.
Distinguishing CharacteristicsThis position is distinguished by its responsibility for data gathering and analysis, preparation of required documentation, and assisting with normal day to day planning functions, including support on the AVL system, GIS mapping, surveying and other tasks to support the continued successful operation of NCTD services.
Supervision Received and ExercisedThe Transit Planner reports to the Deputy Chief, Transit Operations Planning and does not exercise any supervisory authority. This position is expected to participate in the sharing of expert knowledge and as a vital member of various project teams that may be instituted.
Working ConditionsNormal working conditions for this position are in both an office and field setting. Business travel may be required periodically between District sites, governmental agencies, consultant's facilities, and other locations as required.
Essential Functions
Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Design a cogent data analysis plan, gather data and manipulate ridership, on-time performance, and other performance-related data using excel, access or other data analysis tools.
- Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), illustrate data/analysis findings, perform service analyses, including route and route segment analysis, and database management including diagnosing and correcting problems within GIS shape files integrated into the automatic vehicle location system.
- Conduct field studies, write reports, and interview passengers and other stakeholders, and to distill information into recommendations and communications with stakeholders.
- Keep abreast of current industry standards and practices.
- Preparation of maps and other media including PowerPoint presentations.
- Monitor data from AVL system, examines data for anomalies to ensure data quality.
- Coordinate schedules with intermodal partners including MTS, Metrolink, OCTA , RTA, Amtrak, and Greyhound.
- Make presentations to various groups communicating NCTD initiatives and plans.
- Assist in the development of NCTD routes, schedules and facility plans.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Experience/Education
- Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Transportation, or related field, required.
- Minimum two years prior relevant experience required.
A combination of experience/skills and education to fulfill the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities for this position may be considered.
Certificates/Licenses- Possession of and the ability to maintain a California driver's license, Class C, and a satisfactory driving record for the last five years.
General Requirements- General knowledge of U.S. transit industry issues and challenges with some understanding of FTA, state and local regulations regarding transit.
- Able to read, analyze and interpret maps, schedules, plans, spreadsheets, and related documents.
- Ability to transition theoretical questions into data queries, design studies to gather data, and to manipulate data in Excel and/or Access.
- Able to create and maintain good working relationships through excellent communication and teambuilding skills; including the ability to engage successfully with both internal and external contacts and the public.
- Familiarity with transit scheduling methods including scheduling software (working knowledge of Hastus scheduling highly desirable).
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills; ability to gather, organize, analyze and present data to appropriate sources, ability to interpret and apply local, state, and federal rules and regulations accurately and effectively.
- Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to prepare and deliver clear and concise reports.
- Must be able to manage and maintain simultaneous, transitional, and emerging priorities.
- Demonstrated proficiency in computer software programs including the Microsoft Office Suite. Possess the ability to work with data base applications, transit scheduling packages, GIS and statistical packages such as SAS.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Ability to use the phone and computer for extended periods, manual dexterity to complete clerical functions, work with office equipment, and daily lifting of equipment up to 25 pounds is required. Ability to hear, see and to communicate verbally to exchange information. Ability to physically travel between District locations and other destinations, work in evenings when required, work in hazardous conditions, and negotiate a variety of different and irregular terrain as is typical along a railway right of way. May be subject to fumes, odors, dusts, gases, chemicals. Ability to walk, climb, balance, bend, carry, push, reach, sit, and stand.
Machines / Tools / Equipment- Ability to operate a personal computer and Microsoft Office Suite programs.
- Ability to operate standard office equipment, including a fax and scanner machine, copy machine, and telephone.
- Ability to carry and operate a Blackberry/iPhone on-call device.
Application Information: All applicants must complete and submit an online application at www.gonctd.com/careers. A job offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check. Salary based upon experience, not to exceed midpoint of stated range. NCTD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
