Secure your FUTURE with SEPTA today!

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth largest transportation system in the United States, with a vast network of fixed route services including bus, subway/elevated, trackless trolley, light rail, and commuter rail serving a 2,200 square mile service region. SEPTA has become an integral force in the economic success of the Philadelphia region, providing an efficient and reliable source of transportation.

We are seeking candidates for the position of Community Engagement Manager (7377) in the Planning/Strategic Planning & Analysis.

Opening Date:04/12/2024

Closing Date: 04/26/2024

Job Grade: SAM 40

Salary Range: Min: $79,534.00 - Mid: $99,424.00 - Max: $119,314.00

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

The Community Engagement Manager is responsible for the planning and execution of public engagement for the Trolley Modernization program. The Community Engagement Manager ensures that the public is informed about Trolley Modernization activities, and that the perspectives of community members are incorporated into the program's planning, design, and implementation, while advancing the successful delivery of this multifaceted program. This role requires active collaboration with several SEPTA departments, the public, and SEPTA's partner agencies.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Serves as the lead communicator to and from community stakeholders, organizations, elected officials, media outlets, and members of the general public for the Trolley Modernization Program. Represents SEPTA at public meetings and with other public agencies.

Coordinates regularly with an advisory group that includes SEPTA's Communications, Equity and Inclusion, Public and Government Affairs, Strategic Planning and Analysis, and Trolley Modernization Program Management staff to ensure consistency among SEPTA's authority-wide goals, the Trolley Modernization Program's activities, and SEPTA's communication and messaging approach.

Advocates for the Trolley Modernization program by communicating its purpose, need, and benefits to relevant stakeholders and the general public.

Ensures that the perspectives of historically disadvantaged communities are represented in the Trolley Modernization planning and implementation processes.

Develops and maintains relationships with communities impacted by Trolley Modernization.

Creates and employs a community engagement strategy for the Trolley Modernization program using innovative techniques that reach a broad audience of stakeholders.

Leads planning and execution of in-person and virtual community engagement events, such as workshops, forums, pop-ups, focus groups, volunteer events, and other engagement methods.

Creates and leads social media and digital communications efforts that create authentic, targeted online engagement with stakeholders.

Documents and summarizes community engagement activities and reports these activities internally and externally as appropriate.

Manages the activities of consultants supporting Trolley Modernization engagement efforts. Performs other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited college or university in Urban, Regional or Transportation Planning, Geography, Communications, Public Administration or related field, plus a minimum of five (5) years of work experience which includes progressively responsible professional experience in community engagement for transit, planning, or other public policy work is required. Graduate degree may substitute for one ( l) year of experience.
• Experience and understanding of theories, principles and practices of transportation, urban and regional planning, land use planning, public engagement. and community planning is required.
• Experience planning and executing effective public or community meetings is required.
• Sensitivity to cultural difference and ability to work with diverse communities is required.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills are required.
• Master's degree in transportation planning, city & regional planning. or closely related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of transportation planning and program development. including state and US DOT transit and transportation planning program preferred.
• Knowledge and experience of technical methods and analysis. Proficiency in software applications to support transportation analysis and communications, such as ArcGIS or other related GIS software, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft PowerPoint, Word and Excel preferred.
• Personal experience or familiarity with transportation challenges experienced by historically disadvantaged communities, and strong connections and local reach within such a community is preferred.
• Strong graphic communication kills and proficiency with such tools or software are preferred.
• Experience working on complex, multi-stakeholder. large scale planning projects preferred.
• Knowledge of SEPTA service area, function and responsibilities regional planning activities, techniques used in the development of general transportation plans required.

BENEFITS

SEPTA offers a comprehensive benefits and retirement program for ALL employees, including:

• Medical - “Minimal annual premium contribution”

Benefit plans with “No Employee annual premium contribution”:

• Prescription
• Dental

• Vision

Additional benefits we offer:

• Pension Plan / Retirement Savings

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan

• Voluntary Governmental 457B Deferred Comp Plan

• Life Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• SEPTA Transportation Pass - FREE travel on all SEPTA modes of transportation

• SEPTA employees qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program

SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Nearest Major Market: Philadelphia