Assistant Regional Planner (Integrated Planning & Programming) - Limited Term

The maximum starting salary offer for this position is $82,631.55, which reflects the midpoint of the posted range.

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking a motivated Assistant Regional Planner who is eager to make a meaningful impact on the future of transportation in Southern California. Under general supervision, the Assistant Regional Planner in the Integrated Planning & Programming department will support SCAG’s oversight of the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) programs and serve as the primary point of contact for the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) from multiple counties. This position will assist with reviewing and analyzing FTIP and FTIP amendment submittals, ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal and state requirements. In addition, the Assistant Regional Planner will learn how to prepare the Financial Plan for the FTIP and its amendments, serving as a backup when needed. This role provides a valuable opportunity to develop knowledge in federal transportation funding and make a lasting impact on the region.

The Integrated Planning & Programming department is dedicated to ensuring SCAG complies with our obligations as the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the region. This includes complying with FTIP programming requirements and MPO selection of federally funded projects. Additionally, the department supports and coordinates transportation planning activities for Connect SoCal (Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy) updates, prepares and coordinates transportation revenue and cost estimates, develops and coordinates funding strategies, and leads congestion pricing studies and pilot initiatives. The team also prioritizes transportation system preservation activities and supports strategic, integrated transportation planning initiatives.

WHO WE ARE

As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG’s values. SCAG's workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered.

As part of our Work@SCAG policy, employees are eligible for two work models: in-office and hybrid. Eligibility for these models will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties, as determined by management. All work models require employees to be based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to follow the hybrid model and be in the office 2 days per week. 

WHAT WE BELIEVE

MISSION

To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.

VISION

Southern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future.

SCAG CORE VALUES

•Be Open: Be accessible, candid, collaborative and transparent in the work we do.

•Lead by Example: Commit to integrity and equity in working to meet the diverse needs of all people and communities in our region.

•Make an Impact: In all endeavors, effect positive and sustained outcomes that make our region thrive.

•Be Courageous: Have confidence that taking deliberate, bold and purposeful risks can yield new and valuable benefits.

•Cultivate Belonging: Embrace differences, foster equity, champion inclusion, and empower all.

• Assist with the regional call for projects.
• Analyze FTIP project submittals from various counties.
• Assist with tracking of programming and obligations of selected projects.
• Assist with the financial constraint analysis of FTIPs and FTIP amendments.
• Learn and serve as the back-up for preparing the Financial Plan for the FTIP and FTIP amendments.
• Assist with the review and development of annual obligation plan for federally funded projects.
• Represent SCAG and participate in statewide and regional planning/programming meetings as directed by the Department Manager.
• Present at SCAG’s policy committees and external workshops.
• Assist with updating regional program, guidelines, and administrative policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with 1 year of experience in urban or regional planning, or related fields, and a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.

We’ll be a great match if you also have: 

• Knowledge of transportation planning and programming principles, and familiarity with federal and state transportation funding, programming strategies and data sets used by major MPOs, cities, and counties to support transportation planning and programming.
• Knowledge of the Southern California region and local challenges, including knowledge of regional challenges and opportunities related to transportation planning and programming, and familiarity with stakeholder agencies and organizations.
• Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local planning laws, codes, and regulations.
• Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis.
• Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships and collaboration with stakeholders.
• Ability to conduct research and prepare recommendations.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including presentation and public speaking skills.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel with the ability to conduct data and quantitative analysis.

Please note, this posting will remain open until October 20, 2025, with the first application review taking place on October 6, 2025. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. We anticipate interviews for this position will be held in five weeks.