Transportation Partnership Specialist

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Job Category:
Academic Staff

Employment Type:

Terminal (Fixed Term)

Job Profile:
Outreach Specialist

The State Smart Transportation Initiative (SSTI) is seeking a Transportation Partnership Specialist to strengthen our national network of state transportation leaders and help advance safer, cleaner, and more connected communities. SSTI works with State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) across the country to promote sustainability, equity, and transparent governance. We are based at the High Road Strategy Center at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and partner closely with Smart Growth America in Washington, D.C.

This role offers the chance to help shape state and national transportation policy while growing professionally in a vibrant university setting. Madison is frequently ranked among the most livable and bike-friendly cities in the U.S. As a UW-Madison employee, you will receive excellent benefits and retirement, flexibility to support work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development.

• Plan and facilitate frequent virtual meetings for state DOT staff, including inviting guest speakers and preparing agendas, materials, and follow‑up notes.
• Track participation and conduct targeted outreach to strengthen ongoing engagement and recruit new participants.
• Lead planning for at least one annual in‑person convening of state DOT leaders, coordinating logistics with SSTI’s event coordinator.
• Develop and implement engagement strategies to improve participation in peer networks and expand relationships with agency staff, elected officials, partner organizations, and interest groups.
• Collaborate with researchers and technical staff to identify and prioritize network needs and help shape work products, tools, and trainings for DOT staff and leaders.
• Monitor relevant news, research, and emerging practices to inform network discussions and guide SSTI programming.
• Produce clear communication materials including blogs, policy briefs, webinars, meeting materials, and other written content.
• Support program development and strategic growth, including assisting with grant writing, fundraising activities, and other administrative tasks as needed.

We welcome candidates who bring strong perspectives on brand development, program design, and the strategic growth of SSTI and other programs at the High Road Strategy Center.

SSTI staff typically work onsite at UW‑Madison. Hybrid and remote work may be considered. Some national travel is required.

This is a 100% full time, fixed‑term, two‑year position with the possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and funding.

• Schedules and secures resources and communicates logistics in support of an outreach program.
• May assist with the monitoring of outreach program budget spending.
• Identifies, promotes, and maintains external partnerships to support the outreach program.
• Researches, develops, and facilitates outreach program content and materials.
• Delivers outreach program content and materials to community members.

The expected salary range for this position is $55,000 up to $70,000 (12‑month) for experienced candidates. Actual pay will depend on experience and qualifications.

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitive insurance, tax‑advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Familiarity with transportation practices that support sustainability, equity, or community well‑being gained through coursework, research, or professional work.
• Experience collaborating with diverse partners or stakeholders, such as government agencies, nonprofits, or senior…