Description

This position is eligible for telework which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Summary

The Data Specialist, Regional Planning, will help shape the future of the greater New York region by contributing to the MTA’s capital planning and strategy process. More specifically, this position will be responsible for analyze, manage, interpret, and visualize large databases of information (with a specific focus on spatial data) to help set policy for critical transportation investments necessary to ensure the continued mobility and growth of the MTA region. This position is responsible for processing data across MTA agencies, developing and analyzing planning strategies, representing MTA policies with stakeholders, and working on long-range transportation strategies and issues.

Responsibilities

Utilize large databases of information, including regional planning information, transit usage, ridership forecasts, and socioeconomic and demographic information, to underpin the agency’s regional planning strategy.

Develop technical subject matter expertise in data management, analysis, interpretation, and visualization information for data-driven decision-making.

Utilize large databases, including project-level planning information, transit usage, ridership, travel patterns, climate risk data, and socio-economic and demographic information, to help communicate the agency’s long term planning priorities.

Create new and meaningful means for public communication of – and public input into - MTA’s regional planning.

Evaluate datasets and models to assess the quality and analytical rigor and enhance data quality reporting.

Develop and present planning information, processes, and results to stakeholders.

Create, update, and maintain electronic filing system to manage spatial data for existing MTA infrastructure/ridership or for potential/planned projects.

Ensure available project spatial data is up to date.

Ensure internal data matches any data created or updated by consultants or external agencies.

Advise on available technologies and methods to work with and visualize GIS and other data.

Coordinate data sharing across the MTA to help with analysis and mapping.

Create, write, run, and maintain scripts to automate data analysis and the creation of maps and other data visualizations.

Train and mentor junior staff in data analysis, data management, data manipulation, and data visualization techniques and tools.

Education and Experience

A Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Data Science, Geography, Engineering, Public Administration, or a related field.

Must have a minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience.

Master's degree preferred.

Competencies

Knowledge of database management, spatial data sources (demographics, transportation related, environment, aerial imagery), programming (SQL, Python), and other “big data” or data science skills.

Ability to perform in-depth qualitative and quantitative analyses using various tools and datasets.

Excellent technical skills, including proficiency in MS Office, data analytics (SQL, Python coding), visualization tools, and spatial analysis using GIS or similar mapping tools.

Knowledge of spatial data sources related to demographics, infrastructure, environment, and aerial imagery.

Strong time and task management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines and maximize the output of a small staff.

Effective communication skills, and ability to show share knowledge of GIS tools and features.

Strong writing and presentation skills.

Knowledge of the MTA regional network, operating context, and local, state, and federal transportation and policies.

The ability to work with both senior-level staff and technical personnel on a diverse array of issues.

The ability to interface with stakeholders, including senior political and business representatives.

Proficiency in data science software to produce data analytics, visualization tools, and spatial analysis.

Other Information

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the "Commission").

Selection Criteria

Based on evaluation of education, skills, experience, and interview.

How to Apply

MTA employees must apply via My MTA Portal. You can submit an online application by logging into My MTA Portal, clicking the My Job Search ribbon, and selecting the "Careers" link. Logging in through My MTA Portal will link your BSC ID number to your job application to identify you as an internal applicant.

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.