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Sandag Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This candidate will be involved in the development and support of many other challenging multi-modal projects for agencies like SANDAG, City of San Diego, Caltrans D11, NCTD as well as other southern ...

This candidate will be involved in the development and support of many other challenging multi-modal projects for agencies like SANDAG, City of San Diego, Caltrans D11, NCTD as well as other southern ...

Project, Program and Construction management experience with agency clients such as LA Metro, Metrolink, SANDAG. * Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills are required. * Client focused ...

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Sandag information

Where does SANDAG get its money?

SANDAG, as a regional transportation agency, primarily funds its projects through a combination of federal and state grants, local sales taxes, and transportation-specific fees. These funding sources support planning, construction, and maintenance of transportation infrastructure in the region.

What is the work schedule for SANDAG?

SANDAG employees typically work standard business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some positions may require flexibility for early mornings, evenings, or weekends depending on project needs or fieldwork requirements.

What is the difference between Sandag vs Traffic Engineer?

AspectSandagTraffic Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in transportation, civil engineering, or related field; often a certification in transportation planningBachelor's or master's in civil engineering or transportation; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agency, planning department, urban transportation projectsConsulting firms, government agencies, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageRegional transportation planning organizationsPublic agencies, private firms involved in traffic and transportation design
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Sandag (San Diego Association of Governments) focuses on regional transportation planning and policy development, while Traffic Engineers design and analyze traffic systems and infrastructure. Both roles require knowledge of transportation systems, but Sandag emphasizes planning and policy, whereas Traffic Engineers focus on technical design and traffic flow optimization.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at SANDAG, and how can new hires prepare to address them?

Professionals at SANDAG often work on complex, multi-agency projects involving transportation planning, environmental analysis, and regional development. Common challenges include balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders, adapting to shifting regulatory requirements, and managing large datasets for analysis. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with regional planning processes, developing strong project management skills, and staying current with relevant policies. Collaboration and effective communication are essential, as team members frequently coordinate with local governments, consultants, and the public.

What is SANDAG and what does it do?

SANDAG stands for the San Diego Association of Governments. It is a regional agency that brings together local governments in the San Diego area to plan and coordinate important projects related to transportation, housing, environmental protection, and economic growth. SANDAG is responsible for developing long-term strategies and securing funding for major infrastructure projects, such as public transit, highways, and regional development. The agency works collaboratively with cities, counties, and the public to ensure that the region grows sustainably and efficiently.

What does SANDAG do?

SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments) is a regional planning agency responsible for transportation planning, infrastructure development, and policy coordination in the San Diego area. Employees in related roles often work on projects involving transit systems, traffic management, and environmental sustainability, using tools like GIS and transportation modeling. The organization requires knowledge of regional planning and transportation systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments) Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a SANDAG Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, knowledge of urban planning or transportation, and a relevant degree such as in public policy, economics, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools like GIS, statistical software, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are typically required, along with certifications in project management or data analysis being advantageous. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you effectively collaborate with stakeholders and present complex findings. These skills are essential for supporting regional planning, ensuring data-driven decisions, and fostering effective public policy development.

Is SANDAG a good company to work for?

SANDAG offers a range of transportation planning and engineering roles, often requiring technical skills and knowledge of transit systems. Employee reviews indicate that the organization provides competitive benefits and a collaborative work environment, though experiences can vary by position. Job seekers should consider researching specific roles and department culture for a comprehensive understanding.
More about Sandag jobs
What cities are hiring for Sandag jobs? Cities with the most Sandag job openings:
What states have the most Sandag jobs? States with the most job openings for Sandag jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sandag job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% Physical, and 20% Hybrid job distribution.
Program Director - Transportation Planning

Program Director - Transportation Planning

Parsons

Pasadena, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Parsons rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

219th of 442 rated engineering


Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.

Job Description:

Make an Impact. Join a Global Leader.

At Parsons, we are shaping the future of transportation through innovative, multimodal solutions that connect communities, improve mobility, and advance sustainability. Across Southern California and throughout North America, our planners, engineers, and technical specialists partner with public agencies to solve complex transportation challenges involving highways, transit, active transportation, freight, emerging mobility, and intelligent transportation systems.

Parsons is seeking an experienced Program Director - Planning to help lead and grow our transportation planning practice across Southern California. Reporting within our Traffic Engineering and Planning leadership team, this role offers an exciting opportunity to direct major planning initiatives, expand client relationships, drive business growth, and help shape the future of mobility throughout the region.

As a senior seller-doer and trusted advisor, you will lead strategic planning projects, contribute to long-range transportation and multimodal mobility programs, oversee business case development and funding strategies, and serve as a key representative of Parsons with agencies including Caltrans, LA Metro, SCAG, SANDAG, RCTC, local cities and counties, transit operators, ports, and freight stakeholders. You will collaborate closely with technical and market leaders across Parsons while mentoring staff and advancing innovative planning solutions that support our clients' goals.

The ideal location for this position is Pasadena, California, with hybrid work flexibility. Alternate California office locations include Irvine, Corona, and San Diego.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Lead and grow Parsons' transportation planning practice throughout Southern California.
  • Direct planning initiatives across highways, transit, active transportation, freight, ITS, AI-enabled mobility, and emerging transportation technologies.
  • Serve as a seller-doer by identifying opportunities, maintaining client relationships, leading pursuits, and winning new work.
  • Manage and oversee planning projects, ensuring successful delivery, client satisfaction, and financial performance.
  • Provide strategic advisory services related to mobility planning, funding strategies, sustainability, equity, safety, and transportation policy.
  • Guide development of long-range transportation plans, regional mobility plans, corridor studies, and multimodal programs.
  • Lead business case development, funding strategies, and grant applications for transportation investments.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to key clients and support embedded staff engagements.
  • Represent Parsons through professional associations, conferences, industry events, and community forums.
  • Mentor and develop planning staff while advancing innovation, quality, and best practices across the planning organization.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

  • Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Public Policy, Transportation Planning, Civil Engineering, Geography, or a related field.
  • 20+ years of progressively responsible experience in transportation planning, program management, or infrastructure consulting.
  • Demonstrated experience leading multimodal transportation planning projects involving transit, highways, active transportation, freight, and emerging mobility.
  • Established relationships with Southern California transportation agencies and stakeholders, including public sector clients, regional agencies, and transportation partners.
  • Proven success leading business development, capture planning, and proposal pursuits.
  • Strong project and program management skills, including oversight of scope, schedule, budget, quality, and risk.
  • Experience providing strategic planning, policy advisory, or implementation support to public agencies.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence senior executives, clients, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to mentor staff, lead teams, and foster a collaborative and high-performing work environment.


What Desired Skills You'll Bring:

  • Advanced degree in Public Administration, Urban Planning, Transportation Planning, Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Professional certification such as AICP, PE, PTOE, or similar credential.
  • Knowledge of federal, state, regional, and local transportation funding programs and policy frameworks.
  • Strong understanding of Southern California transportation funding, planning, and project delivery processes.

    This position offers an exceptional opportunity to help shape the future of transportation in Southern California while growing a high-performing planning practice within a global infrastructure leader.

    Security Clearance Requirement:

    NoneThis position is part of our Critical Infrastructure team.For more than 80 years, our experts have designed and delivered the critical infrastructure that connects and protects communities around the world. We work in collaborative teams, both within the company and with our partners and customers, to plan, design, build, and modernize infrastructure. We take special pride in projects and solutions that improve communities as well as people's quality of life by promoting economic growth, enhancing mobility, and increasing sustainability and resiliency. Powered by our people, we provide the imagination necessary to support our customers' visions-and to help them see what's next!Salary Range: $157,500.00 - $283,500.00We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 30 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!

    Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer tohttps://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.


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