SUMMARY:

The Transit Planner advances the mission and goals of the Lakeland Area Mass Transit District (LAMTD) through the development of thoughtful and technically sound plans and projects. The Planner also provides staff support in the development, analysis, implementation, and community engagement of the District's transit planning programs and grants.

The Transit Planner performs a full range of professional transportation planning work involving the application of professional knowledge to various regional transit and transportation planning problems. The Planning Department is responsible for scheduling, overseeing capital projects, and intergovernmental coordination. The Planning Department prepares short-range and long-range plans for the District, prepares grant applications, and performs other analysis and duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead and manage complex transit planning projects, including service planning, route analysis, and mobility studies.
• Analyze ridership trends, demographic data, and land use to inform planning decisions.
• Prepare and track project budgets, schedules, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure alignment with strategic goals.
• Prepare and present recommendations to senior leadership, elected officials, and public stakeholders.
• Develop and update short- and long-range transit plans, service improvement strategies, and capital investment programs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and community stakeholders to support the implementation of new services or infrastructure.
• Coordinate with internal departments, local jurisdictions, regional MPOs, and other transportation agencies.
• Conduct public outreach and facilitate community engagement processes.
• Evaluate equity, accessibility, and Title VI impacts of proposed service changes.
• Support grant writing, data reporting, and compliance with FTA requirements.
• Use GIS, scheduling software, and data analysis tools to support planning efforts.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Transportation Planning, Public Administration, Geography, or a related field (Master's preferred).

Experience: Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in transit or transportation planning. Prior experience in a public transit agency or government setting is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be acceptable.

OTHER CERTIFICATES/LICENSES:

Must have a valid Florida driver's license.

AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) or equivalent certification is desirable but not required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices, and research methods related to urban, transportation, and regional planning.
• Considerable knowledge of relevant federal, state and local laws and regulations governing public transit system operations and transportation grant funding.
• Considerable knowledge of regional issues, plans and programs.
• Considerable knowledge of the applications for document preparation, GIS research, spreadsheet analysis, presentation software, and other related applications.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and systematically compile technical and statistical information, and to prepare technical reports.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms, and to make public presentations.
• Ability to develop, read, and interpret rules, policies and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with public officials, clients, coworkers, and the public.
• Ability to analyze operating conditions and problems and recommend and implement appropriate solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively.
• Uses sound, independent judgment in daily work activities and exercises discretion, strong ethical standards.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work environment and physical demands characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

This job is performed in a normal office environment with some limited travel. This job also is sometimes exposed to outside weather conditions.

It may include the need to be able to lift up to 25 lbs. infrequently; 5-10 pounds on a monthly basis; 2-5 pounds weekly.