Program Analyst

Novatransit; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 74,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

The Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC) is seeking a detail-oriented Program Analyst to join the Programs and Policy team in supporting ongoing programs and regional initiatives. The role involves coordinating across jurisdictions, preparing materials, and advancing NVTC's transportation priorities.

Ideal candidates have a strong interest in transit, experience with data and policy analysis, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly to diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in transportation planning, urban and regional planning, geography, political science or a related field.
• One to four years of relevant experience with transportation issues and policy.
• Master’s degree in transportation planning, urban and regional planning, public administration or related field.
• Experience or coursework related to transportation, policy analysis, or transit funding.
• Understanding of transit agencies and governance in Northern Virginia and the Washington D.C. region.
• Familiarity with GIS and analytical software.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate across agencies and jurisdictions on regional transit initiatives.
• Conduct research on topics such as transit funding and zero-emission buses.
• Prepare written and presentation materials for NVTC meetings.
• Synthesize policy information into clear documents for stakeholders.
• Review transit budgets to identify trends and opportunities.
• Represent NVTC in regional meetings and working groups.
• Develop graphics for reports, presentations, and public-facing materials.
• Support outreach to ensure community voices are included.

Skills

Data analysis

Policy communication

Stakeholder coordination

Excel proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in transportation planning, urban/regional planning, geography, political science or related field

Master’s degree in transportation planning, urban/regional planning, public administration or related field

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

GIS

Job description

The Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC) seeks a detail-oriented Program Analyst to join the Programs and Policy team in supporting ongoing programs, regional initiatives, and established committees of the Commission. The ideal candidate is passionate about transit and transportation, thinks strategically, enjoys connecting people, ideas, and programs, is energized by collaborating with partners and stakeholders to advance regional transit initiatives, and has a strong desire to learn and grow professionally.

August 28, 2026

Applications received by this date will be prioritized.

Position Description

The Program Analyst advances regional transit initiatives by coordinating across agencies and jurisdictions, supporting collaboration among partners, conducting strategic research and technical analysis, and helping to connect NVTC programs and partners. The analyst will provide transit policy, research, and logistical support.

Key Functions

The Program Analyst will:

• Conduct research related to various transit and transportation topics, including but not limited to bus priority, transit funding, and zero emission buses, relevant to NVTC’s mission.
• Engage with staff from jurisdictions, transportation organizations and transit agencies to coordinate on specific projects, policies and regional initiatives.
• Support management with day-to-day tasks, including but not limited to preparation of written and presentation materials, planning and preparation for NVTC Commission and Committee meetings, meeting notes and documentation, etc.
• Synthesize technical and policy information into clear and concise written documents for Commission, partner agencies, or public audiences.
• Review and analyze transit policies and jurisdictional transportation budgets to identify trends and opportunities relevant to NVTC’s work.
• Represent NVTC in regional meetings, committees and working groups by participating in discussions and communicating the organization’s priorities and perspectives, as appropriate.
• Develop technical content and compelling graphics for reports, presentations, program webpages, and other public-facing materials.
• Support outreach and engagement activities that advance transit education and ensure community voices are included in transit planning and decision-making.
• Support new projects and programs as needed.

Requirements

Required:

• A Bachelor’s degree in transportation planning, urban and regional planning, geography, political science or a related field.
• One (1) to four (4) years of responsible, relevant experience that demonstrates:
  • An understanding of and interest in regional transportation issues
  • The ability to effectively communicate technical information, both written and verbal, to a variety of audiences
  • Experience with data (Excel), and communications tools (Word, PowerPoint)
  • The capacity to support multiple programs and projects and adapt to shifting priorities
• A Master’s degree in transportation planning, urban and regional planning, public administration or a related field.
• One (1) year of relevant experience or demonstrated course work related to transportation, public policy, policy analysis, transit and transportation funding, or program analysis.
• An understanding of transit agencies and governance in Northern Virginia and the Washington D.C. region.
• Understanding of GIS and analytical software.

Salary & Benefits

NVTC offers a competitive salary and outstanding benefits (life, health, dental, disability insurance, pension, pre-tax childcare and medical cafeteria plan, free parking or parking cash-out, tax-free transit benefits). In addition, NVTC offers opportunities for professional development, training, and attendance at relevant conferences. All employees are eligible for membership in ZipCar and Capital Bikeshare. The competitive salary depends on experience and qualifications.

Position Salary Range (FY 2027): $73,800 to $89,200