Research Program Administrator at NJ TRANSIT

Move forward with us! At NJ TRANSIT, you'll be joining us in transforming the third-largest transportation agency in North America. We are committed to delivering safe, reliable service that gets our customers to their destinations on time—and we’re looking to hire talented folks with a love of learning to make it all possible.

Summary

Provides support of project development, award, research compliance, outreach events, and administrative tasks in support of NJ TRANSIT research projects designed to ultimately enhance NJ TRANSIT’s provision of enhanced mobility options and rider experience across all modes and markets. Includes providing day-to-day project management to research projects. Maintain understanding of research ethics, pertinent laws and regulations

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate development of NJ TRANSIT research needs with internal stakeholders
• Investigate opportunities for internal and external research funding
• Support researchers by coordinating and assisting in the development of research grant applications and related budgets
• Write and contribute to grants as directed
• Administer pre- and post-award management of scientific/research projects and grants, which may involve:
• Provide day-to-day Project Management of research projects
• Follow Cost Accounting Standards and process invoices for research projects
• Follow funding agency requirements and guidelines
• Review project costs with the PI on a regular basis
• Prepare reports for funders or other stakeholders
• Assist in preparing and executing public stakeholder and outreach events
• Prepare research contracts and data use agreements

Working Environment

• Primarily office environment
• Occasional field visits to NJ/NYC locations and/or meetings
• Occasional stakeholder events possible on evenings or weekend

Education, Experience and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Business/Business Administration, Finance or other relevant field and 2 years of research administrative related experience.
• Certified Research Administrator or Project Management Professional certification preferred
• Grant writing experience preferred
• Experience with creating budgets preferred

Knowledge and Skills:

• Background in transportation, engineering, social sciences, or education
• Knowledge of database management software (e.g., Excel, Access) and MS Office
• Excellent writing & communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills and able to multitask to handle multiple priorities and simultaneous deadlines, and to independently seek out answers from the appropriate grant, publication and/or other resources.

At NJ Transit, you will enjoy a competitive salary and excellent benefits package:

• Comprehensive Family Health Insurance – Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Life Insurance
• Paid Leave
• Tuition Assistance
• Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits Plan
• Retirement Plans
• 401(a) - Retirement plan with a 6% employer contribution
• 401(k) - Retirement saving plan with up to an 3% company match
• 457(b) - Deferred Savings Plan

At NJ TRANSIT, diversity and inclusivity are vital to our success as we are committed to hiring individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and veteran status. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply and join our team.