Transit Planning Intern

MEET MVTA

At Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), we are more than a transit agency; we are the pulse of connected communities, driven by our guiding principles. We prioritize safety for riders, employees, and communities while delivering transformative transportation services that exceed expectations. We strive for eco-friendly practices, foster inclusivity, and fairness with a focus on innovation, uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, and remain customer-focused, placing riders at the center of all our endeavors. As the second-largest transit agency in Minnesota, MVTA serves seven cities in Dakota and Scott counties. Our extensive network includes 24 routes, offering local, express, micro-transit, and event services. Join us in shaping the future of transit, fostering community ties, and delivering innovative solutions. Together, we propel MVTA as the most connected transit agency, transforming the way our communities live, work, and play.

POSITION SNAPSHOT

The Transit Planning Internship offers an opportunity to gain experience and apply your education toward transit planning projects for seven suburban cities in the South Metro. A variety of projects will provide exposure and growth in technical, collaborative, and fieldwork skills. The varied duties offer opportunities to work in the field as well as conduct analysis and generate reports. The intern will assist the assigned MVTA Staff member in a variety of transit planning projects. This is a temporary, part-time position, up to 20 hours, based at the Burnsville Bus Garage (11550 Rupp Drive, Burnsville).

KEY CONTRIBUTIONS

Collection and interpretation of data on route performance, bus stops, and park and ride use to help guide service decisions by using ridership data, ride-alongs, road checks, and other methods. Assisting with monthly and grant-required reports for local, regional, and federal entities. Assisting MVTA with achieving federal re-validation of Automated Passenger Counter (APC) system by collecting, reviewing, and analyzing ridership spreadsheets and/or surveillance videos. Investigating and working in coordination with other MVTA departments to evaluate requests for service changes. Reviewing MVTA routes and operations for opportunities to better serve the community, adapt to changing demands, and increase ridership. Preparing maps and service concepts using established planning principles. Assisting with Automatic Vehicle Location System data review, data validation, and management tasks. Assist in the review of internal databases to record all incoming service requests (Operators, customers, Board, etc.) and track the Planning Department's response for each request (action items, timelines, etc.). Research of planning initiatives, best practices, and new tools as needed. Participation in regional planning and collaboration efforts. Oher duties as assigned or as apparent.

CORE COMPETENCIES & CREDENTIALS

Current student or recent graduate (within 12 months) pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Urban Planning, Transit, Transportation, GIS mapping, Geography, or closely related field. Experience using Microsoft Office products, including Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook Valid Driver's License

DESIRABLE COMPETENCIES & SKILLS

Experience with Geographic Information System (GIS) software. MVTA offers a collaborative and innovative work environment with a commitment to equity, sustainability, and community service. Even if your skill set doesn't perfectly align, we value relevant experience, passion for making a positive impact, and a keen willingness to learn!

WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions which might include but are not limited to remaining stationary for extended periods, occasional movement throughout the department, and occasional transport of objects weighing less than 10 pounds. This position requires the ability to observe and analyze details at close range and communicate to exchange accurate information with others. MVTA core hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am - 4:30 pm. Interns will work with the Supervisor to determine a schedule.

EMPLOYEE ADVANTAGES

Experience:

MVTA's internship program offers invaluable hands-on experience, enhances professional skills, and provides personalized mentoring from experienced professionals to foster skill development.

Sick and Safe Time:

Paid sick and safe time allows you to take necessary time off for health issues or safety concerns, promoting a healthier and more secure workspace.

Employee Assistance Program:

Access support services for personal and professional challenges.

Free Transit:

Ride the MVTA transit system at no cost as an MVTA employee.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY MVTA

believes in providing equal employment opportunities. MVTA will not violate any law prohibiting discrimination for or against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, pregnancy, familiar status, disability (including those related to pregnancy or childbirth), membership or non-membership in a labor organization, sexual orientation, gender identify, status regarding public assistance, genetic information, complaining in good faith to MVTA or public authority, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. Applicants and employees will be evaluated solely based on their conduct, their compliance with MVTA's policies, practices, and legitimate expectations, and their performance and experience.