Research Associate, Research Scientist, Environmental Compliance

Position Summary

Research Associate at the Western Transportation Institute (WTI) at Montana State University (MSU). Focus on safety, public transportation, bicycling, and pedestrian issues within the Mobility and Public Transportation group. The role involves designing and carrying out research and technical assistance with minimal supervision.

• Design and carry out research and technical assistance, exercising discretion and judgment with minimal supervision.
• Analyze and interpret data using commercial and custom computer programs, guiding future research in support of WTI goals.
• Maintain equipment related to pop‑up traffic‑calming and safety projects, and acquire supplies as needed.
• Communicate with project sponsors, the public, and external collaborators; coordinate activity and provide support in preparing publications and presentations.
• Interact with WTI colleagues and external sponsors as part of ongoing projects.

• Master’s degree in public health, urban planning, civil engineering (transportation emphasis), business, public administration, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience conducting transportation research.
• Experience supporting research programs and writing grant proposals.
• Demonstrated accuracy, attention to detail, meeting deadlines, and efficient prioritization of competing demands.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and relevant software (spreadsheets, databases, presentation tools).

• Knowledge of and experience with the Safe Systems Approach and the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program.
• Experience working with rural or tribal transit and Federal Transit Administration programs.
• Knowledge of complete streets concepts, bicycle/pedestrian transportation issues, and transportation demand management.
• Certification or several years of experience in project management.
• Experience managing federal research grants.

• Move pop‑up traffic‑calming equipment in street/road environments.
• Move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Remain in a stationary position for several hours.

Salary $50,000 – $60,000 annually, commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications. Benefits are available pursuant to MSU policies.

Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.