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Transportation Partnership Specialist
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Description
The State Smart Transportation Initiative (SSTI) is seeking a Transportation Partnership Specialist to strengthen our national network of state transportation leaders and help advance safer, cleaner, and more connected communities. SSTI works with State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) across the country to promote sustainability, equity, and transparent governance. We are based at the High Road Strategy Center at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and partner closely with Smart Growth America in Washington, D.C.
Why join our team? This role offers the chance to help shape state and national transportation policy while growing professionally in a vibrant university setting. Madison is frequently ranked among the most livable and bike-friendly cities in the U.S. As a UW-Madison employee, you will receive excellent benefits and retirement, flexibility to support work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development.
Job Duties:
The Transportation Partnership Specialist will work closely with the Managing Director to grow and support SSTI’s network of state transportation officials across the U.S. Specific duties include:
- Plan and facilitate frequent virtual meetings for state DOT staff, including inviting guest speakers and preparing agendas, materials, and follow-up notes.
- Track participation and conduct targeted outreach to strengthen ongoing engagement and recruit new participants.
- Lead planning for at least one annual in-person convening of state DOT leaders, coordinating logistics with SSTI’s event coordinator.
- Develop and implement engagement strategies to improve participation in peer networks and expand relationships with agency staff, elected officials, partner organizations, and interest groups.
- Collaborate with researchers and technical staff to identify and prioritize network needs and help shape work products, tools, and trainings for DOT staff and leaders.
- Monitor relevant news, research, and emerging practices to inform network discussions and guide SSTI programming.
- Produce clear communication materials including blogs, policy briefs, webinars, meeting materials, and other written content.
- Support program development and strategic growth, including assisting with grant writing, fundraising activities, and other administrative tasks as needed.
We welcome candidates who bring strong perspectives on brand development, program design, and the strategic growth of SSTI and other programs at the High Road Strategy Center.
SSTI staff typically work onsite at UW-Madison. Hybrid and remote work may be considered. Some national travel is required.
Benefits
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitive insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf.
Location
Associated Location
How to Apply
Applicants should attach a resume and a concise cover letter that clearly describe your interest in this role and your relevant experience. The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine which qualified applicants will advance in the recruitment process. Please note, there is only one attachment field. You must upload all your documents in the attachment field.
References will be requested of final candidates.
Successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.
