The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), located in downtown Chicago, is currently accepting applications to fill the Program Specialist, Strategic Plan Implementation position. The RTA oversees financing, secures funding, and conducts transit planning for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and Pace. The RTA manages these three Service Boards’ five-year capital programs. Also, to help riders with disabilities and older adults across Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties, the agency issues Reduced Fare and Ride Free permits, assesses eligibility for ADA Paratransit service, and oversees specialized travel training. The RTA offers a competitive benefits package, including flexible work arrangements and a hybrid work environment.

Under the direction of the Program Manager, Strategic Plan Implementation, the Program Specialist, Strategic Plan Implementation will work with internal and external stakeholders to implement key projects identified in the Regional Transit Strategic Plan. Supports development, scoping, implementation, and monitoring of RTA-led strategic projects and monitors strategic activities underway across the region by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, Pace (the RTA Service Boards) and other stakeholders. Assists with facilitating internal alignment with the plan and with the development of policy recommendations. Coordinates extensively with other RTA groups to support development of reports to the RTA Board of Directors, RTA Service Boards, Transit is the Answer coalition, counties, councils of government, and other regional partners/organizations.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

2. Scopes, implements, tracks, and evaluates projects and activities that advance transit equity, stakeholder engagement, and transportation emissions reduction.

3. Works across the agency to develop and implement innovative methods to engage a wide variety and diversity of stakeholders in strategic projects on an ongoing basis.

4. Assists division and department leadership with internal alignment of the RTA and planning division activities with the Strategic Plan.

5. Works with the RTA Service Boards to gather input and information on progress made toward Strategic goals and strategies.

6. Assists with updating/developing the Plan on a 5-year cycle.

7. Provides support to RTA Government Affairs and Communications Departments with coalition building and public relations activities undertaken to implement the Strategic Plan.

8. Executes development of written and online content and analysis to report and communicate about the Strategic Plan and progress, including qualitative and quantitative information.

9. Coordinates outside consultant services to ensure a high-quality work product and the timely and efficient completion of RTA planning initiatives. Manages consultant contracts, budgets, and payments.

11. Acts in a manner which is consistent with the RTA’s policies, while providing service of the highest level to our customers - both internal and external. Maintains the confidentiality of all information.

12. Performs other related duties as assigned .

The ideal candidate has the knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of a bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Transportation Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or a related field required.

Other qualifications desired are a minimum of two (2) years’ experience in urban planning, transportation planning, public policy, administration, business, or a related field with an emphasis on strategic project implementation, and stakeholder engagement is desired. Must have demonstrated skills and experience in urban planning with a focus on transit and transportation planning and working across a variety of agencies and stakeholders to facilitate coordination and collaboration. The candidate has experience applying and interpreting technical work in the context of pursuing a strategic direction. Experience with public engagement and facilitation require. Must have the ability to multi-task on concurrent projects and the ability to respires to time sensitive requests. Proficiency with Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint) require. Experience with ESRI GIS, R, Python, or other data analysis and visualization tools is desirable. Excellent verbal and written communication skills require.

The RTA offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. Relocation is not available.

For more information about the RTA, visit our website at https://www.rtachicago.org/.

Salary minimum to mid-point: $67,565.63 to $84,457.58

Candidates can expect salary offers that range from the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. RTA provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

Salary Range: $67,565.63 to $101,348.45

Please submit a cover letter and resume to:

Regional Transportation Authority

Human Resources 24-PSSPI

175 W. Jackson, Suite 1550

Chicago, IL 60604

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An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer