Program Analyst

This position is in the US Department of Transportation, Office of the Secretary, Office of the Under Secretary for Policy. The position serves as a principal policy advisor to the Secretary and provides leadership in the development of policies for the Department, generating proposals and providing advice on optimizing organizational operations and aligning policy initiatives across all modes of transportation. Major duties: The Program Analyst: Provides advice on policy and program matters having national implications on agency regulations and legislation and is responsible for the execution of a broad and complex set of assignments as delegated by executive leadership and has been assigned authority to manage key positions within the immediate office of the Assistant Secretary to carry out and accomplish the mission. Manages administrative and program activities related to research program issues and makes strategic plans and decisions to improve programs by establishing criteria for program performance and works with Department managers and other Federal agencies in the implementation of managerial and administrative programs. Directs, coordinates and facilitates the implementation of managerial programs designed to optimize organizational operation such as the development of how managers within S3 execute organizational programs related to Departmental policy alignment requiring organizational approval. This responsibility requires the knowledge, development, and execution of key strategic initiatives. Provides long and short team strategic plans for future research investments to support administrative initiatives that improve the efficiency of managerial processes for the Assistant Secretary and partners within OST, the Department, Federal Sector, Industry, and vendors as required to improve organizational effectiveness. Leads, directs and coordinates special projects and initiatives on behalf of executive leadership frequently involving other executive officers and/or outside agencies to identify research gaps, synergies and potential research investment ensuring alignment with the Administration's research agenda and Departmental strategic goals. The ideal candidate for this position is an experienced strategic advisor and leader skilled in managing high-profile policy, administrative and organizational initiatives, with national impact. Functioning as a trusted confidant, this individual excels at establishing strategic direction, optimizing organizational operations and aligning policy initiatives with Administration's and Departmental goals. Requirements: CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance the organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. SELECTIVE SERVICE: Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: A background security investigation is required for all selected individuals. Appointment will be subject to the applicant's successful completion of the security investigation and favorable adjudication. Failure to meet these requirements will be grounds for termination. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: You must complete a one-year probationary period (unless already completed). TIME-IN-GRADE: Federal applicants must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade in the competitive or excepted service in the executive branch to satisfy time-in-grade restrictions contained in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F. See Other information for additional instructions.