Senior Regional Planner (Limited-Term) - Multiple Positions

Description

NOTE: An eligible pool will be created for this recruitment and may be used to fill future limited-term and/or regular vacancies in this classification.

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking to fill five limited-term Senior Regional Planner vacancies in the departments of Partnerships, Technology & Innovation, Mobility Planning & Goods Movement, and Integrated Planning & Programming. These key positions offer an exciting opportunity to shape the future of Southern California by driving forward regional planning initiatives. As a Senior Regional Planner, you will lead impactful projects and programs that address critical transportation, sustainability, and funding challenges, helping to create a more connected, resilient, and sustainable region ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games (Games) and beyond. Join us and be part of the innovative solutions shaping the future of Southern California!

These are limited-term positions with an estimated term length of 4 years. Term length may be adjusted based on available funding. These positions are included in the proposed Budget Amendment 1 for fiscal year 2025, which is subject to review and approval by the Regional Council on November 7, 2024.

Games-Related (3 Positions)

For the Olympic and Paralympic Games, SCAG is seeking three planners to support key transportation initiatives, including active transportation, transportation demand management (TDM), and goods movement. These positions will work with regional partners to develop and implement transportation solutions such as quick-build and TDM projects (e.g., carpool programs, transit incentives, wayfinding, etc), and comprehensive freight demand management strategies, ensuring that Southern California’s transportation networks are equipped to handle increased demand during the Games.

Non-Games-Related (2 Positions)

In addition to Olympic-related planning efforts, SCAG is also seeking planners for two non-Games initiatives that address critical regional planning needs. One position will focus on goods movement, supporting the Last Mile Freight Program and the Comprehensive Sustainable Freight Plan.

The other position will support the programming and implementation of key funding programs, including the Carbon Reduction Program (CRP), Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Program, and Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG). Both roles are essential to advancing SCAG’s long-term sustainability, transportation, and funding strategies.

About the Departments

The Partnerships, Technology & Innovation Department is dedicated to researching transformative technology and transportation programs that implement Connect SoCal. The Department’s core focus is on local partnerships to deploy innovative pilot projects and programs. The Department comprises two business units: Regional Pilots and Technology & Innovation.

The Mobility Planning and Goods Movement Department focuses on improving mobility, optimizing the goods movement network, and expanding transportation choices. The department achieves its goals through demand management, multimodal system integration, and initiatives aimed at enhancing economic efficiency, safety, and air quality. It is divided into two business units: Goods Movement & Aviation and Multimodal Integration.

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 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (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.

SCAG operates as a hybrid organization because we recognize that work can be successfully performed in various locations. Designing a work environment and culture where SCAG’s mission, effectiveness, and collaboration can be more flexibly served demonstrates our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) by supporting work-life balance for our employees, retaining our existing dedicated staff, and increasing access to new talent pools.

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.

In this role you can expect to

All Positions:

• Collaborate with regional partners, stakeholders, and public agencies to support transportation, sustainability, and planning initiatives.
• Conduct research, analysis, and reporting to support the development of transportation plans and strategies.
• Prepare presentations, reports, and other communications for internal and external meetings.
• Monitor project progress, manage timelines, and ensure adherence to SCAG’s planning goals.
• Provide technical assistance to project teams and support the evaluation of ongoing programs.
• Contribute to regional efforts that align with SCAG’s strategic vision, including transportation demand management and mobility improvements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Position-Specific Responsibilities:

For the Games-Related Planning Positions:

Partnerships, Technology & Innovation Department - Regional Pilots Unit

• Develop and implement active transportation quick-build projects in support of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
• Engage with local and regional partners to deploy innovative pilot projects that address transportation challenges during the Games.
• Track funding and monitor project delivery for the Sustainable Communities Program Active Transportation & Safety (SCP-ATS) program.
• Work with stakeholders to secure funding and align projects with the goals of Connect SoCal.

Mobility Planning & Goods Movement Department - Goods Movement & Aviation Unit

• Develop and lead the Games Freight TDM Work Plan and support the update of SCAG’s TDM Strategic Plan with respect to goods movement for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
• Assess the current state of freight TDM planning, conduct a SWOT analysis, and support the evaluation of freight pilot projects, including developing TDM data standards and potentially a freight TDM data dashboard.
• Coordinate regular meetings for the Games Mobility Executive TDM Subcommittee and lead regional and county roundtables/forums to discuss freight TDM preparations and align with SCAG’s broader TDM strategies.
• Support the development of guidance and training materials for local stakeholders and maintain an information-sharing hub for freight TDM updates.
• Identify and foster partnerships with counties, cities, private companies, and other stakeholders to enhance collaboration on freight TDM strategies for the Games.
• Develop procurement documents, reports, presentations, and correspondence for policy committees and manage resources related to freight program projects.

Mobility Planning & Goods Movement Department - Multimodal Integration Unit

• Support the development of an integrated multimodal transportation network in preparation for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
• Manage the update of SCAG’s TDM Strategic Plan and implementation of TDM-initiatives, to support a car-free Games.
• Coordinate with regional stakeholders to ensure the smooth execution of TDM strategies in advance of the Games.

Non-Games-related positions:

Mobility Planning & Goods Movement Department - Goods Movement & Aviation Unit

• Support the implementation of Phase 2 of the Last Mile Freight Program, coordinating with public and private sector partners.
• Support the update of the Comprehensive Sustainable Freight Plan, serving as task lead for components of the plan and ensuring alignment with regional freight movement priorities.
• Develop and maintain data products and ensure successful delivery of freight program outcomes across the region.
• Lead efforts to deploy innovative freight technologies and strategies that enhance goods movement efficiency.

Integrated Planning & Programming Department - Programming Unit

• Support FTIP programming and implementation of funding programs, including the Carbon Reduction Program (CRP), Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Program, and Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG).
• Track the delivery of funded projects, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Help coordinate the call for projects process and engage with project applicants, county transportation commissions, and other stakeholders.
• Engage with regional partners to coordinate funding strategies and report project updates.

What you'll bring to this role

A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with 5 years of experience in urban planning and design, project management, or planning regulations 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 policy analysis, project management, transportation and land use planning, and data analysis methods.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement, project management, and data analysis.
• The ability to lead planning projects, prepare clear reports, synthesize data, and maintain professionalism in stakeholder meetings.
• Interest in contributing to a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Supplemental Information

Please note, this posting will remain open until November 7, 2024, with the first application review taking place on October 24, 2024. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. We anticipate interviews for this position will be held in five weeks.

Insurance Coverage
Employees may choose from nine HMO and two PPO health plans administered through CalPERS. SCAG contributes the following amounts towards the monthly health premium: $850 for employee only coverage; $1500 for employee plus one dependent; $1800 for employee plus family. Employees may waive SCAG-sponsored health plans by providing evidence of other health coverage each plan year. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, employee is eligible to receive opt out amount of $200 per month, paid as taxable earnings. Premiums for dental and vision are covered 100% by SCAG. Life insurance in the amount of $50,000 is provided by SCAG. Supplemental life insurance is available at a minimal cost to the employee. Short-term and long-term disability insurance plans are provided by SCAG.

Retirement
Employees become members of the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). Effective January 1, 2013, for new members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), the retirement formula is calculated at 2% @ 62 with a Three Year Average Formula. In accordance with the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), the new member will have a mandatory contribution of 7% of reportable compensation. Employees who are current members of CalPERSor an agency with CalPERS reciprocity, or who have less than a six-month break in service between employment with SCAGor in a CalPERS(or reciprocal) agency will be enrolled in the 2% @ 55 benefit formula.

Empower deferred compensation plan is available and all non-management positions receive a 50% match, up to $1,500. Employees do not pay Social Security.

Paid Parental Leave
12 weeks of paid parental leave to employees following the birth of an employee’s child or the placement of a child with an employee in connectionwith adoption or foster care. Employees become eligible for this benefit after12 months of employment at SCAG.

Holidays
Employees receive 10 designated holidays and 44 hours of Personal Floating Holidays (PFH) per fiscal year, 11 hours for each full quarter worked.

Vacation Accrual
Ten to twenty days per year depending on length of service with SCAG.

0-3 years: 80 hours
4-10 years: 120 hours
11-16 years: 140 hours
17+ years: 160 hours

Sick Leave
Employees accrue sick leave at the rate of one day per month.

Flexible Spending Accounts
Tax-exempt savings plans are offered to pay for eligible expenses associated with healthcare, dependent care, and parking.

Transit Reimbursement Program
SCAG reimburses up to $230 per month for commute to the office via public transit via bus, rail, or train. Employees must commute a minimum of 8 days per month in order to receive reimbursement for monthly passes.

Flexible Time/Modified Work Week/Telework
Employees may work a modified 9-80 work schedule, with every other Friday off. SCAG offers a flexible work schedule to allow employees some flexibility on daily work hours. SCAG has developed a hybrid workforce program called Work@SCAG to provide three work model options (office, hybrid, and remote) to choose from, based on their position, within the SCAG Region.

Technology Allowance
Employees in hybrid and remote work models will receive a one-time stipend of $300 to be used for remote office setup. In addition, all employees receive a $140 monthly technology allowance to cover phone usage for business use and to offset utilities costs while working remotely.

Other Benefits
Educational assistance up to $5,250 per year is offered for qualified courses after one year of employment. Professional membership reimbursement up to $300 per year for professional associations.

Probationary Period
All non-management employees are required to successfully complete a probationary period of 2080 hours prior to achieving regular employment status.

Closing Date/Time: 11/7/2024 5:00 PM Pacific

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• Southern California Association of Governments

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