New York’s transportation woes are numerous, and many of them can be traced back to one source. A lack of money for transit, bridge, and road projects; the inability of cities to use cameras to keep cars out of bus lanes; and a missing state smart growth philosophy are all problems that can only be solved by Gov. Paterson, legislative and agency leaders, and other officials in the state capital. So that’s where TSTC is heading. For the first time, the Tri-State Transportation Campaign is hiring a full-time staff member based in Albany.

The staff member will advance key legislative issues and expand our partnerships in Albany. Candidates should be articulate, dynamic, and assertive and have experience working with elected officials and with community organizing campaigns. They must have a dedication to and passion for environmental issues, strong writing and journalistic skills, and a willingness to work in an advocacy environment. Specific knowledge of transportation-related issues is a strong plus and familiarity with NYS geography is preferred.

Responsibilities will include:

• Pushing existing legislation to improve transportation planning and transit systems such as bus camera lane enforcement and complete streets;
• Pushing for traffic safety legislation (speed cameras, expansion of red light cameras, “vulnerable users” legislation, etc.);
• Advocating for increased, sustainable, and balanced funding sources for transit;
• Watchdogging state Department of Transportation projects and programs and conducting meetings with department staff;
• Writing a weekly “Albany Report” for MTR and another publication;
• Managing a state candidate issue survey.

Other responsibilities may include press outreach, public presentations, blog and report writing. This is a one-year position with the possibility of extension. It is based in Albany, with some travel to our main office in New York City and around the state required.

Three years of work experience required. The candidate must be politically savvy, energetic, flexible, and have excellent analytical, research and writing skills. Masters in urban planning, environmental policy, nonprofit management, or related field preferred.

To apply or for more information, send an e-mail to the attention of Associate Director Veronica Vanterpool at tstc[at]tstc.org.