Senior Transportation Planner

SENIOR TRANSPORTATION PLANNER   

The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission (LVPC), in coordination with the Lehigh Valley Transportation Study (LVTS), is seeking a Senior Transportation Planner to lead regional transportation planning initiatives across the Lehigh Valley. This position plays a key role in shaping future infrastructure investments through sound planning, data analysis, and interagency coordination.  

As a senior member of the Transportation Planning + Data Division, the selected candidate will independently manage complex transportation projects that intersect with land use, safety, system performance, freight, active transportation, and infrastructure management. The role combines technical knowledge with collaborative leadership to support the region’s evolving transportation needs and priorities.  

This position serves as a trusted resource to internal teams and external stakeholders, including state and federal transportation agencies, local governments, and the public.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES + RESPONSIBILITIES  

Working under the general direction of the Director of Transportation, the Senior Transportation Planner:  

• Lead the development and implementation of the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and supporting documents.  
• Oversee the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and coordinate with state partners on the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).  
• Support planning initiatives that address safety, mobility, system condition, freight movement, and multimodal accessibility.  
• Manage transportation funding programs, including review of federal and state grant opportunities and support materials.  
• Analyze system performance using a variety of data sources and tools, including GIS, travel demand models, and other technical platforms.  
• Integrate transportation and land use policy by reviewing development proposals, local plans, and ordinances for potential impacts on the regional network.  
• Prepare and present clear, concise reports and briefings to technical and non-technical audiences, including elected officials and community groups.  
• Engage with diverse community stakeholders and support inclusive public involvement strategies.  
• Collaborate with state, federal, and local partners, including PennDOT District 5-0, FHWA, FTA, and municipal governments.  
• Represent the LVPC/LVTS in regional, statewide, and national working groups focused on areas such as freight, transit, trails, traffic operations, and infrastructure planning.  
• Participate in and support transportation-related advisory committees, public meetings, and planning forums.  
• Other duties as assigned.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS + ABILITIES  

• Comprehensive understanding of transportation planning principles and best practices.  
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects with minimal supervision.  
• Effective team collaborator who can also lead independent workstreams.  
• Familiarity with public engagement practices and ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences.  
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft Teams, and standard communication tools.  
• Ability to interpret technical data and convert it into accessible, actionable planning materials.  

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:  

Minimum Requirements:  

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Transportation Planning, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field.  
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in transportation or regional planning.  
• Proven ability to manage projects and lead multi-agency planning efforts.  
• Strong verbal, written, and graphical communication skills.  

 Preferred Qualifications:  

• Master's degree or equivalent experience.  
• Certification with the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), or willingness to pursue certification.  
• Experience with GIS platforms and tools (ArcGIS Pro, StoryMaps, etc.).  
• Familiarity with travel demand models, REMI, or other forecasting tools.  
• Knowledge of PennDOT Connects, the PennDOT One Map system, and current state/federal transportation planning requirements.  
• Understanding of funding programs and related transportation initiatives.  

  Other Requirements  

• This position requires participation at some early morning, evening and weekend meetings and events. Valid driver’s license is also, required within six months of employment.  

SALARY + BENEFITS   

• Grade 10 - $77,506 – $112,383 per annum; excellent benefits.  
• The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission also, budgets for training and professional membership(s). The LVPC is active in the American Planning Association (national, state and regional,) American Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations, National Association of Regional Councils, Urban Land Institute, Green Building United/US Green Building Council, Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, ESRI, REMI, Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, among other local, regional, state and national allied organizations and initiatives. Team members are encouraged to participate with partner entities.  

APPLY  

Only e-mail submissions to jobs@lvpc.org will be accepted and must include:  

1. Current resume detailing your education and experience.  
2. Letter of interest describing how you meet the qualifications for this position and why you would like to be considered. Please address this letter to, Becky Bradley, AICP, Executive Director, Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, 615 Waterfront Drive, Suite 201, Allentown, PA 18102.  
3. Work samples or links to work that demonstrate your capabilities.  
4. Minimum of three (3) professional references with contact information.  

Position open until filled. Review of applications and interviews will begin immediately.  

TEAM COMMITMENT  

The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.  

In Compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, applicants hired by LVPC must show acceptable proof of identity and evidence of authorization to work in the United States. Perrsons with a disability who need assistance with their application or that need this announcement in an alternative format may call (610) 264-4544.  

FURTHER INFORMATION  

Visit www.lvpc.org for more information on the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, our work program, products and services.