Program Specialist for Environment

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials is currently hiring a Program Specialist for Environment, a full-time position located in our Washington, DC office.

Nature of Position:

The Program Specialist for Environment provides support for a broad range of AASHTO programs and projects including the Center for Environmental Excellence (Center), the Committee on Environment and Sustainability (CES) and assigned CES Sub-committees, and the Committee on Transportation System Security & Resilience (CTSSR).

The AASHTO CES and CTSSR are national committees of state transportation leaders who collaborate on environmental and resilience issues critical to the transportation sector. They focus on promoting sustainable practices, enhancing resilience to climate change, and sharing best practices and resources.

The Center for Environmental Excellence by AASHTO, developed with the Federal Highway Administration, promotes environmental stewardship and helps transportation agencies achieve environmental excellence in project delivery. It serves as a resource for professionals seeking technical assistance, training, information exchange, partnerships, and access to environmental tools.

In supporting state departments of transportation, the Program Specialist collaborates with key AASHTO partners such as the US Department of Transportation, other Federal agencies, and various transportation industry associations. The incumbent gathers, synthesizes, and communicates information to members of AASHTO committees and to various groups within AASHTO. Activities may include organizing, developing, and staffing committee and subcommittee conference calls and meetings; coordinating state DOT members to discuss proposed federal actions; and assisting in planning and implementing national conferences, training workshops, webcasts, webinars, and meetings with state DOTs.

In coordination with the AASHTO Meetings Department and under the direction of the Program Director, the Program Specialist may assist in planning a committee annual meeting and other in-person events, including peer exchanges, summits, or trainings. Planning tasks may include scheduling and attending planning calls, providing logistical support including printing and shipping, and ensuring on-site support (attendee registration, A/V needs, etc.).

Other tasks will include development of presentations and letters for AASHTO members and staff, drafting responses to requests from state or federal agencies, developing and managing member surveys, coordinating meetings and teleconferences, managing the committee’s digital presence, including the newsletter, website and podcast, and other similar duties as assigned.

In carrying out the above responsibilities, the incumbent is expected to develop and maintain professional relationships with individuals and organizations in the transportation community. The incumbent must also be able to effectively manage multiple tasks, set priorities and achieve them independently in a timely manner, as directed by the Program Director.

Position Requirements:

The successful candidate will have 3 years of progressively responsible professional experience, preferably related to policy, transportation, or environment. Prior experience is project management is desired. A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in policy, transportation, or environment. Evidence of a higher degree of professional development, such as a postgraduate education, is desirable.

Candidates should have excellent written and oral communication skills, research and analysis skills, and the ability to establish work program priorities and carry them out independently. The ability to organize survey responses, prepare presentations, and research effectively to prepare reports with minimum supervision is also necessary. Broad knowledge of state and federal transportation programs, including knowledge of national and local transportation policy issues, and federal government programs and agencies is also desired. The incumbent must be able to travel approximately 30 days per year.

How to Apply:

Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to recruiter@aashto.org by Monday, October 28th, 2024.

Who We Are:

AASHTO is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing transportation departments in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. We represent all transportation modes including: air, highways, public transportation, active transportation, rail, and water. Our goal is to foster the development, operation, and maintenance of an integrated national transportation system that is safe and efficient for every individual. We strive to educate the public and key decision makers about the critical role that transportation plays in securing a good quality of life and sound economy for our nation.

The culture displayed at AASHTO is one of inclusiveness. AASHTO fosters a supportive working environment for staff and focuses on both the professional and personal successes of employees. Additionally, employees benefit from a collective workplace that genuinely cares about them and what they do.

Perks and Benefits:

This position would primarily report out of our Washington, DC office located in Metro Center. AASHTO offers employees hybrid work flexibilities and this role may be approved to work remotely up to 2-3 days per week.

The salary range for this position is $57,000 – 67,000.

Additionally, as a full-time employee, you are eligible for:

• A retirement plan with a highly competitive matching and contribution structure
• Comprehensive health insurance benefits
• A robust transit benefit
• Generous leave accrual
• Flexible work schedules and telework options

As an equal opportunity employer, AASHTO is committed to ensuring a diverse and equitable workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected category under Federal law or the laws of the District of Columbia.