Planner II

DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit)•Headquarters, KY

About The Position

Responsible for supporting transportation planning efforts that advance implementation of the DART transit system plan and strategic plan. Studies and projects may include light rail, regional rail, bus corridor, streetcar, operating or passenger facilities, as well as planning efforts related to the customer experience, integration/connection with other modes, sustainability, and transit-oriented land use or station area planning. Position will coordinate with consultants engaged in planning studies and capital projects, and will develop and manage stakeholder, community, and service area city staff engagement efforts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Planning, Transportation Planning, Public Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
Three (3) years progressively responsible transportation and/or land use planning experience including familiarity with engineering plan reviews, the zoning and land development process, NEPA/environmental reviews, FTA programs, and GIS data analysis, and experience with coordinating planning activities with various jurisdictions, multiple departments and/or disciplines, as well as developing and implementing community and stakeholder engagement programs.
Proficiency with software applications to include MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and personal computer and established telecommunications equipment.
Pass a physical (medical) examination that includes a drug screen in order to operate DART non-revenue vehicles.
Knowledge of sustainability in transit and mobility programs.
Ability to be dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers. Gets first-hand customer information and uses it for improvements in products and services. Acts with customers in mind. Establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and gains their trust and respect.
Ability to make good decisions (without considering how much time it takes) based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment. Most of his/her solutions and suggestions turn out to be correct and accurate when judged over time. Sought out by others for advice and solutions.
Ability to pick up on technical things quickly. Can learn new skills and knowledge. Is good at learning new industry, company, product, or technical knowledge. Does well in technical courses and seminars.
Ability to be able to write clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles. Can get messages across that have the desired effect.
Ability to quickly find common ground and solve problems for the good of all. Can represent his/her own interests and yet be fair to other groups. Can solve problems with peers with a minimum of noise. Is seen as a team player and is cooperative. Easily gains trust and support of peers. Encourages collaboration. Can be candid with peers.
Ability to use rigorous logic and methods to solve difficult problems with effective solutions. Can see hidden problems. Is excellent at honest analysis. Looks beyond the obvious and does not stop at the first answers.

Nice To Haves

AICP, PMP, LEED, ENV or closely aligned professional registration/certification is desirable.

Responsibilities

Supports, develops and/or leads planning studies and/or tasks related to capital projects, corridor studies, station/facility area planning and long-range system planning.
Develops and manages public and engagement plans, and incorporates stakeholder, community, agency, and city input into efforts, including disadvantaged or underrepresented communities.
Coordinates with consultants on assigned projects.
Monitors performance of work to assure compliance with project objectives, scope of work and budget.
Supports development of scopes of work and cost estimates for department work program tasks.
Coordinates with local jurisdictions and regional agencies to ensure integration of transit-supportive land use, policy, and mobility elements.
Monitors and/or participates on other city or agency task force or committees to ensure DART interests are represented.
Supports grant initiatives and applications through technical analysis and/or writing.
Manages tasks and projects with minimal supervision.
Identifies and resolves complex problems and opportunities within the planning and development process.
Prepares and makes presentations for stakeholders, general public, customer groups, interagency contacts and the DART Board.
Prepares a variety of analytical reports, studies, and documents.
Actively seeks out training and other opportunities to stay informed of latest industry guidance.
Performs other related duties as assigned.