Urban Transit Planner

Urban transit planners develop and improve public transportation systems by analyzing ridership data, modeling travel demand, designing routes and schedules, and evaluating infrastructure investments. They work with government agencies, community stakeholders, and engineering firms to create equitable, sustainable transit networks. The BLS reports a median salary of $81,800 with 4% projected growth as cities invest in public transit to reduce congestion and carbon emissions.

A Day in the Life

A typical day starts by reviewing ridership data from recent bus route changes and comparing projections to actual boardings. The planner joins a community meeting to present a proposed light rail extension and gather public feedback. After lunch, they use GIS software to map transit coverage gaps and model the impact of a new express bus route. Late afternoon involves drafting a section of a federal grant application and meeting with city engineers about a new bus rapid transit corridor.

Key Stats

Required Skills