Program Manager-Crash Data Champion (Research Assistant 3)

JOB SUMMARY

The Connecticut Transportation Institute (CTI) at the University of Connecticut is seeking a Program Manager – Crash Data Champion, Research Assistant 3, to lead and oversee a comprehensive project to overhaul the state’s crash data collection and analysis systems. This position will be pivotal in developing and deploying new tools, processes, and training programs designed to improve how crash data is collected by law enforcement agencies and used for transportation safety analysis. The Program Manager will work directly with researchers, developers, and law enforcement agencies to ensure successful project implementation and ensure that police officers are trained to effectively use these new systems. This position is expected to have a start date in May or June of 2025.

JOB DUTIES

• Lead and manage the project to overhaul Connecticut’s crash data collection and analysis tools, including defining project scope, objectives, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with stakeholders, including the Connecticut Department of Transportation, law enforcement agencies, research teams, and software developers, to ensure alignment on project goals and deliverables.
• Oversee the development, testing, and deployment of new crash data collection tools and analysis software, ensuring that they meet the needs of law enforcement and safety researchers.
• Manage the training and educational programs for police officers on how to use new crash data collection tools and technologies effectively.
• Create and maintain detailed project documentation, including status reports, risk management plans, and progress assessments as required by NHTSA.
• Monitor project progress and performance, identifying potential risks, and implementing corrective actions to keep the project on track.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between technical and non-technical stakeholders to ensure that the project is aligned with the needs of the law enforcement community and transportation safety experts.
• Work with the research team to integrate data from crash reporting systems into transportation safety analysis tools, enhancing the ability to analyze trends and improve decision-making.
• Develop and implement a sustainable plan for post-deployment support, including ongoing training, troubleshooting, and updates to crash data collection tools.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all crash data project-related inquiries and concerns.
• Engage with law enforcement leadership and community stakeholders to ensure their input is considered and integrated into the project.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to project team members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Promote data-driven decision-making through clear communication of the tools’ benefits and usage.
• Perform related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Transportation Planning, Public Administration, Computer Science, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in program management, project management, or related roles, with a focus on data-driven systems or public safety projects.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional teams in the development, implementation, and management of complex projects.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including law enforcement officers, developers, and government agencies.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to addressing project challenges.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong understanding of data collection systems, software development lifecycles, and training program implementation.
• Excellent project management skills, including familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira).
• Knowledge of transportation safety, crash data analysis, or law enforcement operations is highly desirable.
• Experience with GIS, crash data collection tools, or law enforcement technologies.
• Experience with law enforcement training programs or public sector systems.
• Familiarity with the transportation safety research and policy-making process.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies in data analysis, mobile applications, or crash data reporting tools.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to data privacy, security, and compliance is a plus.
• Project management certification (e.g., PMP, Scrum Master) is a plus.