Transportation Planner

GRAND VALLEY METRO COUNCIL

JOB DESCRIPTION

TRANSPORTATION PLANNER

Supervised By:        Transportation Director

Supervises:               No supervisory responsibility

General Summary:

Under the supervision of the Transportation Director, is required to assist in all aspects of transportation performance based planning and programing and analysis of related impacts and costs. Participate in specific areas such as land use and transit planning. Interact and work cooperatively with officials at all governmental levels. Promotes and defines Grand Valley Metro Council’s transportation objectives in a variety of public forums.

Essential Job Functions:

An employee is this position may be called upon to perform any or all of the following essential functions. These examples do not include all of the duties the employee may be expected to perform. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily.

1.              Handles long and short range transportation issues on a daily basis. Develops and/or coordinates elements of Grand Valley Metro Council’s metropolitan transportation plan (MTP) including research and analysis of system deficiencies, public transportation, air, rail, non-motorized transportation and freight. Coordinates with staff and members working in each mode.

2.              Develops socio economic data and projections, maps, financial forecasts for the MTP, and analyzes environmental and societal impacts.

3.              Handles land use data for Grand Valley Metro Council on a daily basis. Meets with local governments concerning land use plans and development.

4.              Organizes workshops for the purpose of informing local agencies on transportation issues affecting the region.

5.              Oversees the work of consultants retained to work on various transportation related projects.

6.              Serves as liaison to the area’s regional transit-agency representing the Metro Council on transit/public transportation issues. Advocates for effective coordination between the agencies.

7.              Coordinates the public involvement process for the Department. Stages public appearances and announcements, organizes public meetings, gives presentations, and generally educates the public concerning transportation issues.

8.              Coordinates technical issues with FHWA, FTA, MDOT, and local units of government.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Minimum Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, abilities and minimum qualifications necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job.

Requirements include the following:

·                 A Bachelor’s Degree in Urban or Transportation Planning, or related field

·                 A minimum of three+ years experience in transportation planning.

·                 Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of transportation planning.

·                 Skill in computer programming and in the use of spreadsheet and database software as well as GIS.

·                 Skill in effectively communicating ideas and making presentations in a public forum.

·                 Skill in interpreting and applying planning guidelines and ordinances.

·                 Ability to establish effective working relationships and use good judgement, initiative and resourcefulness when dealing with the media, the public, other employees, and governmental units.

·                 Ability to critically assess situations, solve problems, work effectively under stress, within deadlines, and in public situations.

·                 Ability to attend meetings as scheduled at times other than regular business hours.

·                 A State of Michigan Vehicle Operator’s License.

SALARY RANGE:     $45,500 - $60,500 DOQ

Send Resume to mccrathg@gvmc.org by 8/30/2020

Grand Valley Metropolitan Council

678 Front Ave NW, Suite 200

Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504

(616)776-7613, mccrathg@gvmc.org