Planner (9222)

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

Performs a wide range of transit planning functions, provides technical assistance and support in implementing the Authority’s strategic plan and capital programs. Conducts research and analyzes local, state and federal transit and transportation policies. Coordinates planning efforts with appropriate SEPTA departments and external entities. Assists with planning studies related to the implementation of the Regional Rail master plan.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Serves as project planner on technical transportation studies, corridor planning, feasibility studies, alternatives analyses, environmental review studies including consultant selection, product review and intra and inter-agency coordination and consultation.
2. Researches and reviews environmental studies and Alternatives Analysis for major transit corridor projects as well as major transportation studies and project implementation in the areas of rail, bus priority and station area planning.
3. Assists with activities of consultants in development of planning documentation.
4. Researches and analyzes pertinent capital and long range planning information in response to departmental, public and government agency inquiries.
5. Conducts short-term policy research and technical analysis.
6. Coordinates information and acts as liaison for Northeast Corridor Commission and Amtrak planning activities.
7. Represents SEPTA in a planning role at various Northeast Corridor Commission, Amtrak and other organizations devoted to inter-city and commuter rail policy planning.
8. Evaluates plans and projects of other transportation agencies and planning commissions with respect to their potential impact on the SEPTA system. Assists with various external long range planning studies where SEPTA service is involved or anticipated.
9. Assists in the preparation and update of the Authority’s and the Region’s long range and capital plans.
10. Interfaces with all appropriate SEPTA departments with the objective of evaluating, reviewing and analyzing long range projects.
11. Reviews proposed and current Federal, State, regional and local transportation planning policies, procedures, laws, ordinances and regulations.
12. Assists with the coordination, planning, and policy development with Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, PennDOT, City of Philadelphia and other City agencies, County Planning Commissions and Transportation Management Agencies.
13. Represents SEPTA at meetings with governmental and other agencies. Assists with inquiries from outside agencies.
14. Prepares written communications, staff reports, and general informational memos. Review consultant proposals and interview consultants for transportation planning projects.
15. Provides technical advice in solving complex transportation planning and environmental issues and regulations.
16. Visits various field locations.
17. Performs other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Urban, Regional or Transportation Planning, Geography, Business or Public Administration or related field, plus a minimum of three (3) years of work experience which includes progressively responsible professional experience in transit and/or transportation planning required. Graduate degree may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
• Knowledge of transportation planning and program development, including state and US DOT transit and transportation planning programs and NEPA environmental review regulations required.
• Experience and understanding of theories, principles and practices of transportation, urban and regional planning, land use planning, public outreach and community planning; including transit-oriented development, financial plan analysis required.
• Project management skills required.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills required.