Assistant Regional Planner (Integrated Planning & Programming)

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking a motivated Assistant Regional Planner who is interested in influencing the future of regional transportation. The Assistant Regional Planner position in the Integrated Planning & Programming department provides an entry-level opportunity to contribute to innovative funding strategies and mechanisms that help preserve and enhance efficiency of our transportation system. This position will support the agency’s preparation of the ConnectSoCal Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (Connect SoCal) by assisting with financial analyses, cost and revenue forecasts, and the transportation investment project list. Under general supervision, the Assistant Regional Planner will support SCAG’s pricing and incentive research, coordination with regional partners to develop innovative funding and financing mechanisms, financial planning for the Connect SoCal, and support regional policy development including Senate Bill (SB) 743. In addition, the Assistant Regional Planner will assist with data collection, coordination with the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) for project tracking, and administrative support for budgeting and procurement. This position offers a valuable and rewarding experience in shaping impactful transportation initiatives. 

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 the Connect SoCal update, prepares and coordinates transportation revenue and cost estimate, 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

• Support the development and preparation of financial analyses and plans for the Connect SoCal update. 

• Assist the Principal Regional Planner in developing cost and revenue forecasts and other data analyses by engaging with state, regional, local, and transit agency staff and synthesizing pertinent details.

• Support various pricing and incentives efforts aimed at securing new revenue streams, promoting fairness, and managing travel demand.

• Analyze and develop policy positions for relevant topic areas including but limited to SB 743, pricing and incentives, transportation asset conditions, and regional transportation issues.

• Assist with program management, including meeting support, file management, updating reports, and tracking project status. 

• Attend and synthesize important details from federal, state, regional, and local meetings. 

• 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.