Job Description

CMAP may fill this position as either an Associate Research Analyst/Modeler or as a Research Analyst/Modeler, depending on candidate qualifications. Minimum requirements for each are listed below.

In this position you will join a dynamic and unique team that develops innovative information to support decision-makers on the current and future state of the region’s transportation system. An Associate Research Analyst/Modeler supports the Transportation Modeling group in maintaining, operating, and improving the agency’s set of modeling analysis tools. CMAP recently completed a major update to its trip-based travel demand model and is currently updating its activity-based model.

This position provides the opportunity to learn travel demand modeling from the ground up. An Associate Research Analyst/Modeler will develop foundational knowledge of trip-based modeling and gain an understanding of the various modeling roles CMAP plays. That includes learning to use the travel demand modeling software (Emme) and how to run the entire trip-based model.

This position also supports the development of innovative modeling procedures to improve the responsiveness of the agency’s modeling tools to the guiding principles of ON TO 2050: inclusive growth, resilience, and prioritized investment. Work will focus on the collection, preparation, and analysis of data necessary to support CMAP’s modeling tools and research activities. Tasks will also include assisting with travel demand model runs to support the long-range plan, the Transportation Improvement Program, individual transportation project studies, and to satisfy federal Air Quality Conformity requirements.

Key Functions and Activities

• Identify, collect, process, and maintain data to support agency travel demand modeling efforts and policy analyses.
• Conduct basic to moderate complexity analyses and investigations using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, statistical analysis, or travel demand modeling software.
• Update or prepare computer procedures to automate analyses and evaluations.
• Conduct quality assurance checks on methods and procedures.
• Develop coding for roadway and transit projects.
• Prepare model data input files.
• Assist in fulfilling small area traffic forecast requests.
• Assist senior modeling staff on project studies or special analyses.
• Prepare reports, maps, graphics, and data visualizations to effectively convey analysis findings.
• Document work products for use by other CMAP staff.
• Complete assigned tasks and manage workload and schedule to achieve desired outcomes and meet required deadlines.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience with core computer programs, including Excel and GIS.
• Ability to learn a scripting language (Python, R, SQL, SAS) to perform data processing, analytical tasks, or data visualization.
• Ability to carry out routine technical analysis for well-defined projects.
• Ability to troubleshoot errors with guidance.
• Ability to extract and manipulate complex datasets in a variety of file formats.
• Ability to prepare technical information and to effectively communicate it to internal audiences orally, in writing, and in presentations.
• Knowledge of the principles of research, data collection, and analysis.
• General understanding of environmental, social, land use, and transportation considerations in urban planning.
• Proficiency in business technology, including communication and collaboration tools used in a hybrid work environment (Teams, Zoom, etc.).
• Ability to contribute to projects and work as part of a team.

Education and Experience

Associate Research Analyst/Modeler has the following minimum requirements:

A Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Economics, Data Science, Statistics, Engineering, or a related discipline. Experience with data collection, research, and quantitative analysis obtained through coursework, internships and/or professional experience.

Research Analyst/Modeler has the following minimum requirements:

A Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Economics, Data Science, Statistics, Engineering, or a related discipline with more than 2 years of professional experience with data collection, research, and quantitative analysis.

Company Description

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is our region’s comprehensive planning organization. The agency and its partners are implementing ON TO 2050, a long-range plan to help the seven counties and 284 communities of northeastern Illinois implement strategies that address transportation, housing, economic development, open space, the environment, and other quality-of-life issues. See cmap.illinois.gov/about for more information on the agency’s vision and core values.

CMAP is always looking for talented, self-motivated individuals to join our team. If you think you are ready to be a part of an exciting team, then we encourage you to continue with this applicant friendly, online job application! This position will remain open until filled.

Benefits

• IMRF
• AFLAC
• Certifications/Licenses and Association Dues
• Conferences/Training
• Deferred Compensation (457 Plan)
• Dental Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Flextime
• Health Insurance
• Holidays
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Long-term Disability Insurance
• Parental Leave
• Personal Days/Floating Holidays
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Short-term Disability Insurance
• Sick Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Vacation Leave
• Vision Insurance

CMAP requires all employees to declare their vaccination status upon hire. The agency reserves the right to enforce and/or amend this policy in compliance with federal and state mandates or as it deems necessary. Your acceptance of an offer of employment means that you understand and agree to comply with this policy.