Job Description

Overview Government Affairs Manager — Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) Salary: $192,816.00 - $250,640.00 Annually | Job Type: Full-Time | Location: CA 95134-1927, CA Job Description Join VTA's Government Affairs team as we shape the future of transportation policy. This role is pivotal in building the regional transportation framework and may serve as senior staff liaison to committees and boards. The position involves policy advocacy, collaboration with regional boards and interagency groups, and execution of special projects as directed by the Chief of Staff and General Manager. What You'll Be Doing Under the general administrative direction of the Chief of Staff and the General Manager, act as VTA policy advocate and liaison with regional Joint Powers Boards, regional transit operators, rail advocacy groups, and public/private sector groups on national and regional rail transit issues; may serve as senior staff liaison to special committees; manage senior staff support to Board members and elected officials on regional and national issues; execute special projects with sensitive ramifications as directed. Distinguishing Characteristics Provide special research and assistance on matters relating to regional and national organizations impacting VTA; develop policy recommendations; author policy text and interagency agreements; evaluate agency plans and programs; serve as senior VTA liaison to designated organizations. Ideal Candidate Policy and Advocacy Expertise — Extensive experience in transportation policy, program analysis, and intergovernmental advocacy; skilled in evaluating complex policies and crafting strategic responses. Legislative & Interagency Relations — Strong understanding of regional transit agencies and interagency coordination; ability to collaborate with elected officials, boards, and senior government staff. Strategic & Political Acumen — Ability to anticipate policy and political challenges and lead strategic responses; diplomatic skills. Leadership & Team Management — Experience supervising multidisciplinary teams and aligning with executive priorities. Communication & Presentation — Excellent writing and speaking skills; experience drafting policy briefs and presenting to boards and officials. Project & Committee Leadership — Ability to lead cross-functional groups and advance initiatives through interagency committees. About VTA The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority employs more than 2,000 people, delivering transit development and operations, congestion management, funding, design and construction, real estate and transit-oriented development, and bicyclist/pedestrian planning in Silicon Valley. VTA partners with local, state, and federal entities to innovate mobility solutions for Santa Clara County. VTA provides bus, light rail, and paratransit services and participates as a funding partner in regional rail services such as Caltrain, Capitol Corridor, and ACE. As the county’s congestion management agency, VTA leads countywide transportation planning and related projects. VTA serves numerous cities across the county and seeks to strengthen its workforce through its Forward Plan. Division & Essential Job Functions About the Division — Government Affairs develops and coordinates VTA’s legislative and intergovernmental programs; the Board Office supports Board and Committee activities and communications. The division maintains relationships with elected officials at federal, state, regional, and local levels. The Board Office also handles annual work plans and statutory notices. Essential Job Functions – Typical Tasks Represent VTA and the General Manager’s office at internal and external meetings. Develop policy in line with General Manager and Board direction for interagency funding, governance, and administrative agreements. Analyze and evaluate complex policy issues; propose strategies for the General Manager and Board. Coordinate with Board members who represent VTA on external organizations; provide briefings and policy analysis. Maintain contacts with federal, state, and local government representatives to identify impactful legislation. Manage relations with selected regional organizations and staff. Serve as senior policy liaison with San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission on ACE issues. Support ongoing activities of committees appointed by the Board or General Manager, including research and policy recommendations. Maintain relationships with policy board and executive staff from national, regional, and local governments. Report to the General Manager and Chief of Staff on pending developments and recommendations. Participate in staff management and budget processes; supervise and coordinate staff support for Board members on interdepartmental issues. Coordinate strategies with cities, other transit districts, and regional agencies; work with VTA staff on policy strategies affecting other transit agencies and cities. Chairs/Co-chairs interdepartmental/interagency groups and coordinates major capital project activities. Establish and maintain relationships with Board members and staff; perform related duties as required. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Education and experience in transportation policy and advocacy, typically a four-year degree in public administration, urban planning, political science, or related field, plus extensive related experience. Experience in a large public transportation organization is required. Supplemental Information Knowledge of public administration, intergovernmental relations, transportation policy, planning analysis, and related laws and processes. Ability to analyze and interpret difficult policy issues, speak before public bodies, prepare clear reports, and manage budgets. Application & Accessibility All updates regarding applications will be sent via email. Applications must be submitted online. We do not accept paper applications. For accessibility accommodations, contact the Human Resources department. Equal Opportunity VTA is an equal employment opportunity employer. VTA does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, color, marital status, disability, national origin, immigration status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or veteran status. To apply, please visit the online job posting. #J-18808-Ljbffr American Public Transit Association

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