Program Analyst: Center for Transportation Research, Nashville - UTK

University of Tennessee•Nashville, TN

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The analyst will collaborate with planners, analysts, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) specialists, data engineers and other technical teams to produce and present accurate, accessible, and user-centered visualization products. These products enhance TDOT’s data storytelling, performance reporting, and public engagement efforts. Key tools used in this role include Power BI, ESRI ArcGIS Online, ESRI ArcGIS Pro, and related visualization and analytics platforms. In addition to visualization development, this position assists in maintaining reusable visualization templates and documentation, applying accessibility and usability standards, and providing informal training and troubleshooting support. The analyst is expected to contribute to continuous improvement in visualization practices by identifying opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and consistency across the department. The Center for Transportation Research is part of the Tickle College of Engineering at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. CTR researchers and staff members work with the Tennessee Department of Transportation, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office, and many other partners to improve transportation and promote the safe and efficient transport of goods and people.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in geography, urban planning, transportation planning, engineering, computer science or other related fields
Four years of experience
Excellent Data Visualization and Geographic Information System (GIS) software skills, including the ability to customize software
Knowledge and experience using Data Analytics and Visualization platforms such as Power BI
Knowledge of basic transportation/land use planning and civil engineering principles
Ability to multi-task and work with minimal supervision
Ability to prioritize and balance a heavy workload based on project needs and deadlines
Ability to work autonomously as well as within a team environment
Use of concise, efficient, and effective communication skills - virtual, oral, and written
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, & Publisher

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master's degree in geography, urban planning, transportation planning, engineering, computer science, or other related fields
Two years of experience
ESRI Online Platform
ESRI ArcGIS Pro
Python/Arcade Programming
PowerBI
GISP

Responsibilities

Develop, present, and maintain dashboards, web maps, and interactive visualization that present transportation data and travel forecasting model outputs using tools such as Power BI, ESRI ArcGIS Online, and ESRI ArcGIS Pro.
Collaborate with data engineers, GIS staff, and planning analysts to integrate reliable, well-structured datasets into visualization platforms.
Monitor data quality issues, troubleshoot visualization performance concerns, and ensure data accuracy across published content.
Apply industry and department standards and best practices for usability, accessibility, and visual clarity to support communication with diverse audiences.
Optimize the speed and scalability of dashboards, particularly when working with large or complex datasets, ensuring smooth performance and usability.
Translate stakeholder’s needs into clear and actionable visual formats and iterate designs based on testing and feedback.
Assist in developing and maintaining standardized templates, color palettes, and layout styles to promote consistency across TDOT visual products.
Support the department’s self-service business intelligence initiatives by preparing curated datasets, clear documentation, and training materials that empower internal users.
Contribute to data governance efforts by ensuring visualizations follow established policies for security, accessibility, and public transparency.
Monitor emerging tools, libraries, and techniques in data visualization and recommend enhancements or improvements to existing systems and practices.