Project Manager III

OCTA • Orange, CA

23h

About The Position

Project Manager III - Transportation Planning Under minimal supervision, leads complex, high-visibility countywide and regional transportation planning initiatives that shape OCTA’s strategic direction. Oversees development of the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), multimodal corridor strategies, and major studies while coordinating with regional, state, and federal partners. This is an exempt position in salary grade 230. Annual Salary: Min – $124,883.20 | Mid – $149,177.60 | Max – $173,472.00. The starting salary will be within this range based on qualifications. This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected. OCTA is the county’s transportation planning commission and public transit operator. With a focus on safety and accountability, we plan, fund, and implement countywide projects that include bus and rail transit, freeways and express lanes, rideshare, microtransit, paratransit, active transportation, and environmental programs. We’re passionate about creating a balanced, equitable and sustainable transportation system that reflects the diverse travel needs of the county’s 34 cities and 3.2 million residents. Our employees rated OCTA as a top workplace in Orange County. Come join us on our mission of keeping Orange County moving.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Transportation Planning, Urban/Regional Planning, Engineering, Public Administration, or related field
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in transportation planning, including 3 years at a senior or supervisory level
• Experience managing complex, high-visibility regional or multimodal planning programs
• Strong analytical, project management, and policy development skills
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Experience working with public agencies, stakeholders, and elected officials

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or PMP certification preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead major transportation planning programs including LRTP, corridor studies, and regional initiatives
• Manage consultant-led studies involving modeling, scenario analysis, and performance evaluation
• Develop scopes of work, budgets, schedules, and oversee contract compliance
• Coordinate with agencies such as Caltrans, SCAG, FHWA, FTA, and CARB
• Provide strategic recommendations on transportation policy, funding, and legislative issues
• Present complex planning concepts to executive leadership, Board of Directors, and stakeholders
• Lead public outreach and stakeholder engagement efforts
• Analyze data, forecasts, and performance metrics to inform planning decisions
• Prepare technical reports, policy documents, and Board materials
• Mentor staff and support cross-functional collaboration across OCTA

Benefits

• Lead impactful, high-profile projects shaping the future of transportation in Orange County
• Work with regional and statewide partners on innovative mobility solutions
• Influence policy, funding decisions, and long-term infrastructure investments
• Collaborate with executive leadership and key stakeholders
• Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager