Description

The Transportation Planner assists the Manager of Planning & Scheduling in all aspects of the transit planning process. This position is responsible for collecting and analyzing ridership and survey data, preparing reports, identifying trends and patterns, assisting with route and schedule development (including run-cut administration, blocking, deadhead itineraries, and run times), and supporting outreach to area employers and current/potential riders.

This position also serves as a liaison within the ACT Operations Department by learning day-to-day operational workflows, constraints, and software tools, and translating planning concepts into practical, achievable service changes. The Transportation Planner helps ensure proposed schedules, route adjustments, and service updates are operationally feasible and clearly communicated for successful implementation.

The Transit Planner is a developmental role that will learn the responsibilities of the Manager of Planning & Scheduling over time and provides backup support as needed. This position supports ACT’s purpose and objectives by respecting and adhering to all Agency policies and procedures.

Essential Functions include but are not limited to:

Prepare and maintain regular ridership and performance reports, tracking key indicators (e.g., fare type, route/stop/trip, time of day, on-time performance) and ensuring data accuracy.
Analyze data and develop tables, charts, and summary findings to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for service improvement.
Support planning and scheduling work including route/schedule development and revisions, run-cut administration (blocking, deadhead, run times), and review of draft timetables for accuracy and consistency.
Conduct rider research activities (on-board/off-board surveys, data collection) and summarize results to inform service planning and customer communications.
Support Title VI efforts by compiling demographic data and researching potential equity impacts of proposed service changes.
Coordinate outreach to area employers and support marketing/outreach initiatives by distributing materials and tracking effectiveness using ridership and related metrics.
Assist with bus stop planning activities including identification, location review, and placement coordination for MCT-designated stops.
Represent the agency in public-facing settings (public meetings, surveys, community organizations, and regional planning meetings/events) by supporting public involvement, collecting and summarizing feedback, and communicating service information to stakeholders.
Develop and maintain working knowledge of Madison County, MCT services, and operational realities; serve as a liaison with Operations and other departments to ensure service plans are feasible, implemented smoothly, and evaluated after launch.
Attend work regularly and be prepared to perform the functions of the position.

Non-Essential Functions include but are not limited to:

Provide support and assistance with other departmental assignments as needed.
Perform related duties as assigned to support the Planning and Scheduling function.

Requirements

B.A. or B.S. degree in transportation planning, urban planning, communications, data analysis, logistics, business, or a related field preferred.
Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of professional experience in transportation planning, data analysis, public administration, logistics, or a related field.
Strong attention to detail for collecting information, entering data, reviewing data, and identifying errors or inconsistencies.
Interpersonal communication skills and the desire to work with internal staff, external stakeholders, and the public.
Strong written communication skills to prepare briefing papers, summaries, and reports.
Ability to analyze data and compile it into charts, tables, or graphs in a clear, understandable format.
Comfortable driving throughout the region; must be able to maintain a clean driving record.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel and Word.
Ability and willingness to learn other software applications such as transit planning, scheduling, and data analysis programs.
Ability to maintain confidentiality in all areas of the position.
Professional, clean, and neat appearance.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

Normal working conditions for this position include prolonged periods of riding buses and/or sitting at bus stop locations, as well as extended periods working at a computer in a typical office environment. Working days are typically weekdays, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with occasional night and weekend obligations. This is not a remote position.

The physical requirements of the position include sufficient hand, arm, and finger dexterity to record information, manipulate paper, and operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment; visual acuity to read words, numbers, and graphical information; speaking and hearing ability sufficient to communicate in person and by telephone; and the ability to sit, stand, walk, and bend as needed to perform the duties of the position.

Summary

EEOC – 5
Non-Exempt- Hourly
Non-Safety Sensitive 12/30/25 avs

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all functions and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.