Transit Connection Specialist

MEET MVTA

At Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), we are more than a transit agency; we are the pulse of connected communities, driven by our guiding principles. We prioritize safety for riders, employees, and communities while delivering transformative transportation services that exceed expectations. We strive for eco-friendly practices, foster inclusivity, and fairness with a focus on innovation, uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, and remain customer-focused, placing riders at the center of all our endeavors.

As the second-largest transit agency in Minnesota, MVTA serves seven cities in Dakota and Scott counties. Our extensive network includes 25 routes, offering local, express, micro-transit, and event services. Join us in shaping the future of transit, fostering community ties, and delivering innovative solutions. Together, we propel MVTA as the most connected transit agency, transforming the way our communities live, work, and play.

POSITION SNAPSHOT

The Transit Connection Specialist will be pivotal in facilitating seamless transportation services for MVTA service area residents. This position will be responsible for coordinating and optimizing transit routes, ensuring efficient connections between various modes of transportation, enhancing accessibility to transit for MVTA service area residents, working with stakeholders throughout the MVTA service area to educate residents on the services offered by MVTA, and provide information about future MVTA services. This role requires a strong understanding of public transportation systems, excellent communication skills, and collaborating effectively with stakeholders to improve transit connectivity.

This is a two-year grant-funded position with the potential of expanding beyond two years.

KEY CONTRIBUTIONS

• Analyze existing transit routes and schedules to identify opportunities for improvement in accessibility, connectivity, and efficiency for passengers; identify and address barriers to transit use, such as infrastructure limitations or gaps in service coverage.
• Collaborate and work closely with transit planners/agencies, customer service, local cities/counties/governments, chamber of commerce, community groups, and other stakeholders to provide education on what services MVTA offers, as well as how to utilize those services.
• Utilize data analytics tools to gather insights into passenger demographics, travel patterns, and preferences to inform decision-making and optimize transit services to benefit and serve our communities.
• Community outreach and training; engage with community members, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to gather feedback, address concerns, and foster support for transit initiatives.
• Stay informed about relevant transportation policies, regulations, and best practices to contribute to developing policies that support efficient transit connections and accessibility.
• Explore opportunities to leverage technology, such as mobile apps and real-time information systems, to improve the transit experience and provide passengers with timely and accurate information.
• Lead or participate in projects related to transit connectivity, including pilot programs, infrastructure improvements, and service expansions.
• Expertise in the following mediums – presentations (design/delivery of), open discussions, demonstrations, etc.
• Build appropriate training materials to help influence future trends in ridership and overall community connectivity; gather and translate data about our region to identify training opportunities to reinforce the bridge and fill in the gaps between riders/customers and MVTA to further our current outreach and available resources.
• Build confidence in the rider’s ability to navigate public transportation and ensure trust in the system; increase ridership and awareness.
• Perform other duties as assigned or apparent.
  
  

CORE COMPETENCIES & CREDENTIALS

• Associate degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field.
• Two (2) years of relevant transportation planning or public outreach experience.
• Proficiency in GIS software, data analysis tools, and other relevant technology platforms.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated time management skills; ability to be organized and efficient, effectively prioritizing tasks.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven recommendations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude .
  
  

Desirable Competencies & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field.
• Four (4) years of relevant transportation planning and public outreach experience.
• AICP accreditation
  
  

MVTA offers a collaborative and innovative work environment with a commitment to equity, sustainability, and community service. Even if your skill set doesn’t perfectly align, we value relevant experience, passion for making a positive impact, and a keen willingness to learn!

WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions which might include but are not limited to remaining stationary for extended periods, occasional movement throughout the department, and occasional transport of objects weighing less than 10 pounds. This position requires the ability to observe and analyze details at close range and communicate to exchange accurate information with others.

EMPLOYEE ADVANTAGES

• Healthcare: Access to medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Life and Disability Coverage: Gain peace of mind with life and disability benefits, ensuring financial security for you and your loved ones.
• Deferred Compensation: Build a foundation for long-term financial security with the flexibility and control provided by our deferred compensation plan.
• Retirement: MN PERA is a government pension program; employer and employee contributions are mandatory.
• Paid Time Off: Achieve work-life balance with paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Investing in Your Growth: We invest in your professional development through a variety of continuous learning opportunities and programs.
  
  

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

MVTA believes in providing equal employment opportunities. MVTA will not violate any law prohibiting discrimination for or against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, pregnancy, familiar status, disability (including those related to pregnancy or childbirth), membership or non-membership in a labor organization, sexual orientation, gender identify, status regarding public assistance, genetic information, complaining in good faith to MVTA or public authority, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. Applicants and employees will be evaluated solely based on their conduct, their compliance with MVTA’s policies, practices, and legitimate expectations, and their performance and experience.