Transportation Data Application Manager

Maricopa Association of Governments•Phoenix, AZ

8h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) is seeking an experienced and collaborative professional to lead the Transportation Data Application team. This position plays a critical role in maintaining high-quality regional datasets, advancing safety analytics, and managing large-scale transportation survey efforts that directly support planning, modeling, performance evaluation, and policy development across the region. This is an excellent opportunity for a data-forward leader who enjoys solving complex problems, mentoring early-career staff, and shaping impactful, data-driven transportation decisions. The Data Application Manager oversees a wide range of technical, analytical, and program management activities, including, but are not limited to: Leading the acquisition, processing and analysis of safety data to provide strategic insights and guidance to end users. Develop and manage transportation survey projects to support model development, validation, and calibration. Continue developing a talented early-career team of planners and analysts. Track best practices, emerging tools and trends, in transportation data and incorporate relevant advancements into MAG’s strategies. Analyzing, interpreting, and visualizing data used in the implementation of performance-based planning and programming. Supporting MAG committees, technical work groups, and regional partners through clear, concise communication and accessible data storytelling. Maintaining a wide variety of geospatial information and ensuring the ongoing quality and utility of the data contained therein.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in data science, computer science, planning, engineering, math, or a related field; master’s degree preferred.
At least 7 years of progressive and applicable experience, including demonstrated experience with data visualization, large-scale data processing and analysis.
Experience working with safety datasets (collision data, Road Safety Audits, or other ancillary related safety programs).
Prior management experience, team leadership or staff mentorship experience.
Demonstrated experience with data transformation tools outside of Excel (Python, R, SQL, PostgreSQL, etc.).
Experience managing, interpreting, or analyzing large and complex datasets.
Strong analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to present technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
Experience managing consultant-led projects.
Exceptional attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership.

Nice To Haves

Extensive experience presenting before policymakers and professional colleagues
Experience working for an MPO, COG, DOT, or transportation consulting firm.
Experience designing, managing, or analyzing large transportation surveys.
Understanding of ESRI’s GIS tools and geospatial analysis workflows.

Responsibilities

Lead the acquisition, processing and analysis of safety data to provide strategic insights and guidance to end users.
Develop and manage transportation survey projects to support model development, validation, and calibration.
Continue developing a talented early-career team of planners and analysts.
Track best practices, emerging tools and trends, in transportation data and incorporate relevant advancements into MAG’s strategies.
Analyze, interpret, and visualize data used in the implementation of performance-based planning and programming.
Support MAG committees, technical work groups, and regional partners through clear, concise communication and accessible data storytelling.
Maintain a wide variety of geospatial information and ensure the ongoing quality and utility of the data contained therein.