Senior-level Technical Project Managers for ITS Projects @ Open Roads Consulting, Inc.

May 4, 2011 at 5:01 pm

http://www.openroadsconsulting.com/projman0609.html

Open Roads Consulting, Inc. is a privately held American technology firm where we value entrepreneurship, team building and creativity in our people. Together we are on the cutting edge of marketing new technologies specializing in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) solutions for our clients. We are currently seeking senior-level technical project managers to facilitate our national growth plan. Our project managers are strong independent thinkers that are responsible for business development and project management of ITS solutions, providing industry setting service for our clients.

If you are looking for a challenging career where you can make a difference with the up and coming industry leader, please visit our website for the complete job description at
http://www.openroadsconsulting.com/projman0609.html. Confidential resumes and salary history should be sent to hr@openroadsconsulting.com. EOE/AA/M/F/V/D.

Job Alert: Transit Safety and Security Specialist @ USDOT’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration – Oklahoma City, OK

April 20, 2011 at 4:05 pm

The Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) seeks two Transit Safety and Security Specialist’s (Instructor) to join the Transit Safety and Security Division at the Transportation Safety Institute (TSI).  RITA coordinates the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) research programs and is charged with advancing rigorous analysis and the deployment of cross-cutting technologies to improve our Nation’s transportation system.  The Transportation Safety Institute (TSI) provides premier worldwide training, products and/or services for people in the public and private sectors through innovative, state-of-the-art methods and technologies that contribute to the protection of life, property, and the environment.  The Transportation Safety Institute training center is located in Oklahoma City, OK at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC), a Federal Aviation Administration training and materials facility.  Visit www.tsi.dot.gov to learn more.  The position is located in Oklahoma City, OK.

As a Transit Safety and Security Specialist (Instructor), you will develop training programs, instruct, manage and facilitate classes, perform evaluations, and conduct seminars and symposiums.  Programs include all facets of safety and security work with complex bus and light rail transit systems.

To succeed in this position you must have experience developing, implementing, and/or performing complex assignments in support of transit safety and security projects, programs, and plans, and ensuring compliance with safety oversight regulations.  You must have experience in developing, modifying, and instructing training course content and materials.  You must also have superb organizational, communication and presentation skills.  Payment of relocation expenses may be authorized.  Ability to obtain and retain a travel credit card is required.

This announcement is open to the general public and under merit promotion for current or former Federal employees and people eligible under special hiring authorities. Please note that merit promotion announcements are the vehicle through which Federal employees generally apply for Federal positions.

Click here for the Merit Promotion Announcement

Click here for the Public Announcement

Job Alert: Transportation Policy Analyst @ Reason Foundation

April 19, 2011 at 5:36 pm

Application Deadline: May 6, 2011

The Reason Foundation, a non-profit, public policy think tank based in Los Angeles, seeks a policy analyst in transportation.  Qualified candidates should have a relevant degree, a solid understanding of free-market public policy and an aptitude for written communication.

Ideal candidates will be very familiar with Reason’s transportation policy work and be able to describe what they can contribute to the organization.  Work location is negotiable and salary commensurate with experience.  Applicants at all levels of experience are invited to apply.

To apply, submit a cover letter and resume to Amy Pelletier atAmy.Pelletier@Reason.org. The cover letter should include an explanation of your interest in the Reason Foundation.

Job Alert – CFO/ Finance Director @ Eno Transportation Foundation, Washington, DC

April 19, 2011 at 5:26 pm

The Eno Transportation Foundation, a nonprofit transportation policy and leadership think-tank, is seeking a Finance Director/Chief Financial Officer. Ideal candidates should have a strong interest in both organizational financial management and transportation policy. Superior writing ability, interpersonal skills, and basic understanding of finances are all essential. Experience with accounting is a bonus but not required.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist CEO in developing strategies to cut costs and strengthen Eno’s financial position
  • Track all organizational finances including financial management, budget control, payroll, accounting, and fixed assets system and functions
  • Design and update the organization’s budget
  • Track and fulfill all organization financial obligations
  • Manage outside contracts for office functions (including IT)
  • Assist the Board and CEO in understanding the organization’s portfolio
  • Ensure adequate controls are installed and that substantiating documentation is approved and available so all purchases may pass audits
  • Assist in the research and development of publications related to transportation policy
  • Manage and coordinate all fiscal reporting activities for the organization
  • Perform some Human Resource functions including managing contracts, payroll, and benefits for the organization.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Understanding of and interest in transportation policy
  • Excellent writing and communication ability
  • Strong management and interpersonal skills
  • Creating and assessing financial statements and budget documents
Qualifications
Excellent financial credentials and a minimum of 5 years experience are required. An advanced degree in transportation, urban planning, or business administration is preferred but not required.
CPA and accounting experience also preferred but not required. Salary and title based on experience and qualifications.
To Apply
Send cover letter and resume to pshepherd@enotrans.com

Making a Business Case – New Study Says Federal Investment in High-Speed Rail Could Spur 1.3 Million Jobs

April 12, 2011 at 2:36 pm

(Source: Fast Company)

A new report from the American Public Transportation Association counters the GOP strategy on high-speed rail and turns the anti-HSR rhetoric argument on its head by saying it is in fact good for the economy.   This report focuses on key issues critical to private investors as they consider investments or future expansion into businesses serving the growing passenger rail markets.

Here is  the crux of the report as explained by the Fast Company: High-speed rail can be a huge driver of jobs and economic growth, and the government has already committed to at least $10 billion worth of spending, with plans for tens of billions more in the coming years.

The report, “The Case for Business Investment in High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail” (PDF) by the American Public Transportation Association finds that in addition to the obvious, but temporary, construction jobs, the benefits ripple out throughout an economy. Most importantly, for each $1 billion spent on train construction, 24,000 permanent jobs are created. That’s a mere $41,667 per job, which looks downright cheap when you’re staring down 9% unemployment.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority estimates that building a high-speed rail link between L.A. and San Francisco would result in 600,000 construction jobs and 450,000 permanent new jobs. There are currently 2.2 million unemployed people in the state; high-speed rail would halve its unemployment rate.

Click here to read the Fast Co. analysis.

Shown below is the APTA presser accompanying this report.

New report shows tangible economic benefits of investments in building a 21st century rail system

Washington, DC – April 6, 2011 –The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) released a report detailing the enormous impact high-speed and intercity passenger rail projects will have in driving  job development,  while also rebuilding America’s manufacturing sector and generating billions of dollars in business sales.  This report focuses on key issues critical to private investors as they consider investments or future expansion into businesses serving the growing passenger rail markets.

The report, “The Case for Business Investment in High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail” reinforces the point that investments in high-speed and intercity rail will have many direct and indirect benefits.  Nationally, due to proposed federal investment of high-speed rail over a six-year period, investment can result in supporting and creating more than 1.3 million jobs.  This federal investment will be the catalyst for attracting state, local and private capital which will result in the support and creation of even more jobs.

According to this new report, investments in building a 21st century rail system will not only lead to a large increase in construction jobs, but to the sustainable, long-term growth of new manufacturing and service jobs across the country.

“It is evident that investing in high-speed and intercity rail projects presents one of the clearest and fastest ways to create green, American jobs and spur long-term economic growth,” said APTA President William Millar. “Investing in high-speed rail is essential for America as we work to build a sustainable, modern transportation system that meets the environmental and energy challenges of the future.”

APTA noted for each $1 billion invested in high-speed rail projects, the analysis predicts the support and creation of 24,000 jobs.

In addition to the thousands of new construction jobs, investments in high-speed rail will jumpstart the U.S. economy. The Economic Development Research Group for the U.S. Conference of Mayors studied the business impact of high-speed rail investment in different urban regions.  For example, in Los Angeles, CA, high-speed rail investment generates $7.6 billion in business sales and $6.1 billion in Chicago, IL.

“Federal high-speed rail investment is a strong driver in getting private companies to invest,” said Kevin McFall, Senior Vice President at Stacy and Witbeck Inc., a leading public transit construction firm. “This program can be a shot in the arm for the manufacturing industry.  These high-speed rail projects will give us the opportunity to put people to work building the rail infrastructure this country desperately needs.”

“U.S. businesses have been known for their cutting edge technologies and innovations, said Jeffrey Wharton, President of IMPulse NC. “We need to put this expertise to work, providing business and employment opportunities while catching up with the rest of the world in high-speed rail and its associated benefits.”

“We are excited about the prospect of putting Americans to work building the rail tracks and equipment that will keep America’s economic recovery moving forward,” said Charles Wochele, Vice President for Industry and Government Relations at Alstom Transport. “We look forward to partnering with the federal and state governments to ensure these projects get off the ground.”

Here is a related article (and some interesting comments to go with it) I posted a couple of days ago.

Internship Alert: 2011 SUMMER INTERNSHIP – Eno Transportation Foundation @ Washington, DC

March 31, 2011 at 11:13 am

The Eno Transportation Foundation (Eno) in Washington, D.C., is offering a summer 2011 internship opportunity beginning in May or June. This is a great opportunity to learn about the transportation industry and gain valuable experience and contacts.   The candidate selected will assist Eno staff with our leadership development programs, public policy forums, and publications. In addition, the successful candidate will research key public policy issues, including current legislation in the U.S. Congress.

Candidate Qualifications
Candidates should have a strong interest in transportation policy. Because Eno has a small staff, interns are expected to take on a variety of tasks to support the overall organization.

What is the Eno Transportation Foundation?
We are a nonprofit operating foundation recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) organization. The Foundation’s programs cover all modes of transportation, public and private sectors, and carriers as well as passengers and shippers. To enhance its effectiveness, the Foundation often conducts its activities in partnership with others in government, industry, or academia. The Foundation engages in three primary activities:

•    It conducts policy forums with transportation leaders to discuss emerging issues and to assist in building the understanding needed to address them effectively.
•    It tailors leadership development programs to prepare public- and private-sector professionals with the skills needed to understand and manage our most pressing transportation issues.
•    It publishes research materials on transportation and the challenges the sector faces.

Salary
Interns will be paid a stipend of $2,000 per month toward their living expenses and/or to reimburse the cost of credit hours earned by the internship.

How to Apply
Please send resume and cover letter to lrobertson@enotrans.com by April 22, 2011.

Job Alert: Director, Office of Transit Programs — Federal Transit Administration @ Washington, DC

March 25, 2011 at 6:58 pm

(Source: USA Jobs)

Federal Transit Administration

Dedicated to delivering results that matter to the American people, the FTA supports, improves, and promotes effective public transportation, the Nation’s fastest growing mode of travel. Through the administration, management, and oversight of a $10 billion annual grant program, FTA supports the development and construction of subway, light rail, and bus systems to help communities provide travel choices; improve access to jobs and health care; drive economic growth; and protect the environment.

This position is located in the Office of Transit Programs of the Office of Program Management (TPM). The Office is responsible for the development and management of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) formula and discretionary grant programs, oversight of regional office capital and formula grant making processes, and management of FTA’s electronic grant making system as business process owner.

You will serve as the director of the Office of Transit Programs and will be personally responsible for the supervision, management, and execution of all activities of the Office. You also will represent and negotiate for FTA in meetings in Washington and the field with top level representatives of Federal, State, regional and local agencies, organizations, and transit operators.

This position is ideal for a Senior Level, professional transportation program specialist who has excellent communication skills, analytical skills, and leadership skills.

Click here for additional information and to apply.

Job Alert: Director, Office of Transit Safety & Security @ Federal Transit Admn., USDOT

March 25, 2011 at 6:16 pm

(Source: USAJOBS)

Job Description

Dedicated to delivering results that matter to the American people, the FTA supports, improves, and promotes effective public transportation, the Nation’s fastest growing mode of travel. Through the administration, management, and oversight of a $10 billion annual grant program, FTA supports the development and construction of subway, light rail, and bus systems to help communities provide travel choices; improve access to jobs and health care; drive economic growth; and protect the environment.

You will serve as Director, Office of Transit Safety and Security (TPM-30) within the Office of Program Management.

You will carry out the duties and responsibilities outlined in this position description and reports to the FTA Associate Administrator of Program Management and Deputy Associate Administrator of Program Management. The duties and responsibilities include functioning as advisor in safety security matters to the FTA Administrator, and Deputy Administrator. You will serve as Director of the TPM-30 leadership team, which includes team leaders for security and safety. As a senior FTA expert in safety and security, you will represent FTA in promoting transit safety and security and is a focal point for all related programs and issues. You will also serve as a key liaison for FTA with other elements of the Department and other Federal agencies for transit safety and security matters.

You will be responsible for establishing the framework for coordinated and cooperative safety and security activities within FTA, with relevant DOT agencies, with other Federal agencies, and with concerned national organizations and State agencies. Ensures that safety and security is a priority with FTA grantees and contractors, the transit industry, and concerned interest groups. Responsible for directing, coordinating, controlling, and ensuring the adequacy of short- and long-range FT A plans and programs on all transit safety and security matters as they relate to the FTA strategic plan, its missions, programs, and objectives. Keep the FTA Administrator, and Deputy Administrator informed of emerging and controversial issues.

This position is ideal for a Senior Level professional with a broad range of transit safety and security matters and functioning as an advisor in such matters.

Click here for more information and to apply

Job Alert – Application deadline extended – Director, Center of Innovation for Air Traffic Systems and Operations

March 24, 2011 at 8:17 pm

The Research and Innovative Technology Administration is looking for an executive to serve as the Director of the Center of Innovation (COI) Air Traffic Systems and Operations of the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Volpe Center).  Located in Kendall Square area in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Volpe Center plays a unique role in looking across the transportation enterprise by applying its multi-disciplinary capabilities to anticipate future transportation issues and challenges across all modes of transportation.

Reporting to the Deputy Associate Administrator for Research, Innovation and Technology, the COI Director will lead and oversee the Air Traffic Systems and Operations COI comprised of four technical divisions – Navigation and Surveillance; Operations Risk Assessment and Terminal Systems; Traffic Flow Management; and Communications and Operations.  This COI has a combined technical/scientific federal staff of 85 employees; a 150 project portfolio; and average annual obligations of $80 million, representing one-third of the Center’s portfolio. Through close collaboration with other Volpe Center COI Directors, the COI Director will assist in the development of FAA and other strategic initiatives and new program opportunities, and, as needed, serve as liaison to FAA leaders in working with managers across the Volpe Center.

To succeed in this rewarding and challenging leadership position, the COI Director must have expertise leading applied research and technology projects – ideally as an engineer/scientist- in one or more areas of air traffic operations and systems, including aviation communication, navigation, surveillance (CNS), and air traffic control safety and security.  This individual must also possess exceptional management, planning and communication skills, and be able and willing to contribute as part of a collaborative management team.  While not required, an advanced scientific or technical degree is highly desirable. Travel is required (30-50%).

The vacancy announcement can be found on COI Director, Air Traffic Systems and Operations (attached find a copy of the vacancy announcement).

Job Alert: Internship assignment – Intelligent Transport Systems — International Road Federation (IRF)

February 11, 2011 at 7:45 pm

Terms of Reference

Internship assignment – Intelligent Transport Systems
February 2011
The International Road Federation
Founded in 1948, the International Road Federation (IRF) is the only world forum advocating better and safer roads through optimum road design and construction. IRF  is a nongovernmental, not-for-profit organisation with the mission to promote roads that are safe, economically viable and ecologically friendly.   As a unique global platform bringing together public and private entities, IRF is committed to sound road infrastructure that brings prosperity, fights poverty, furthers education and gives better access to health services.  www.irfnet.org
Context
Clients are increasingly demanding members of the International Road Federation (IRF) for integral solutions to their mobility problems, rather than just a stretch of tarmac. IRF wants to be at the forefront of future developments and strongly believes Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) have a considerable role to play. Despite a growing body of evidence that ITS deployment contributes to  important transport policy objectives such as improving road safety, reducing negative environmental impacts of transport and increasing network efficiency, ITS still suffers from a lack of support from politicians, high level policy makers and the general public. IRF has taken up  this awareness challenge by creating a Policy Committee on ITS, which saw its kick off during the ITS World Congress in New York in 2008.
The mission of the IRF Policy Committee on ITS is to foster the deployment of ITS by supporting the development of national and regional ITS strategies and by encouraging governments to integrate ITS as a major tool to achieve their transport policy objectives.  The Policy Committee  is open to IRF members, national and supranational governments, national and regional authorities, ITS Associations, intergovernmental institutions and other organisations upon invitation by the IRF.
The Policy Committee meets twice a year during working meetings and holds information meetings during the annual ITS World Congress. This year’s world congress will take place in Orlando, Florida in October 2011. By then the Committee is aiming to have produced two deliverables:
  • A lobby document containing political arguments to invest in ITS
  • An ITS Strategy Toolkit: an online kit containing tools and information to set up an effective ITS strategy
A provisional outline of the deliverable can be found in the Annex.  An editorial team consisting of Committee members is being established for the supervision of the production.
Assignment
The intern will be asked to:
  • Elaborate a structure/outline for the Lobby document;
  • Perform background research and establish contacts with  relevant partner organisations to obtain useful inputs, references, case studies, etc.;
  • Draft sections of the Lobby document and support the editorial team in delivering and reviewing sections of the Lobby document;
  • Support and coordinate with the review team for validation purposes;
  • Otherwise assist the ITS Programme Manager in the coordination of the production.
Contact
If you have an interest in this assignment, please send a motivation letter and CV to Caroline Visser at cvisser@irfnet.org.
International Road Federation
2 chemin de Blandonnet
1214 Vernier
Switzerland
Tel. +41 22 306 02 60
Fax. +41 22 306 02 70
www.irfnet.ch
Annex – Terms of Reference deliverables IRF Policy Committee on ITS
Two products are envisaged:
  1. A document containing political arguments to invest in ITS (referred to as Lobby document)
  2. An online kit containing tools and information to set up an effective ITS strategy (referred to as ITS strategy toolkit)
Ad 1 – Lobby document
Target audience: local/national/supra-national politicians and political advisors
Format: attractive, high profile, easy to read (but not void), a “gift”
Tone of voice: positive, promoting ITS from policy point of view
Size: tbd (but compact)
Elements:
  • Overview of how ITS contributes to current policy objectives of safety, sustainability and efficiency in transport (source: SubCom A overview, IBEC and 2DECIDE evaluation libraries for illustrative facts)
  • Research needs (source: survey)
  • Vision 2030, future policy objectives and potential role of ITS (source: workshop)
  • Enablers & barriers (source: case studies, survey)
  • Position statement IRF
Ad 2 – ITS strategy toolkit
Target audience: local/national transport authorities
Format:  online kit, easy accessible, basic, medium profile, extendible
Tone of voice: factual, based on wide experience
Size: tbd
Elements:
  • Generic strategy model (source: SubCom E)
  • Strategy library (IRF)
  • Examples/showcases (source: survey, strategy library)
  • Future possible additions/modules: community of practice, regional focus, policy road map, assessment tool ITS readiness