How to Be Transportation Research Analyst - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 4, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The role of a Transportation Research Analyst is crucial in the modern world. By analyzing existing transportation data and trends, they are able to identify potential issues, such as traffic congestion, safety risks, and economic implications. This data analysis can then be used to develop strategies to improve the transportation system, making it safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective.

These strategies can include infrastructure investments, improved public transit services, and incentives for low-carbon transportation modes. By making these changes, transportation research analysts can help reduce air pollution and congestion, while also improving public health and community quality of life.

Steps How to Become

Get a college degree. To become a Transportation Research Analyst, you will need to earn a college degree in a field related to transportation such as urban planning, civil engineering, geography, or economics.
Gain experience. Many employers prefer to hire experienced Transportation Research Analysts. You can gain experience through internships or volunteer work.
Develop your skills. To become a successful Transportation Research Analyst, you should have excellent analytical and research skills, as well as an in-depth knowledge of transportation systems.
Obtain certification. Many employers prefer to hire Transportation Research Analysts who have earned a professional certification. The Transportation Research Board offers the Certified Transportation Research Professional (CTRP) certification.
Network. It is important to network with other professionals in the field in order to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and job opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help you build relationships and stay informed.

In order to be a reliable and capable transportation research analyst, a number of important factors need to be taken into consideration. Firstly, having a good understanding of the transportation industry, including its current trends and potential changes, is essential for any successful analyst. having strong analytical skills is essential in order to be able to interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions from the research.

Furthermore, familiarity with the relevant software applications and tools is also necessary in order to effectively analyse and present data. Finally, effective communication skills are important, both for interacting with customers as well as for presenting findings in a clear and concise manner. By ensuring that all of these factors are taken into consideration, it is possible to become a reliable and capable transportation research analyst.

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Job Description

Transportation Planning Analyst
Transportation Systems Analyst
Logistics Analyst
Public Transportation Analyst
Fleet Management Analyst
Traffic Operations Analyst
Travel Demand Modeler
Transit Network Analyst
Emergency Transportation Analyst
Air Traffic Control Analyst

Skills and Competencies to Have

Strong knowledge of transportation laws, regulations and policies
Expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods
Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software
Ability to interpret and analyze research data and make recommendations
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex transportation problems
Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders
Knowledge of transportation system planning and operations
Familiarity with transportation project management techniques
Proficiency in geographic information systems (GIS)

Good transportation research analysts need to have a range of skills to be successful. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential, as research analysts must be able to interpret data and develop actionable solutions. Analytical and quantitative skills are also important to be able to identify patterns and trends in data, and to analyze the impacts of proposed changes.

Communication skills are also necessary to be able to effectively report their findings and collaborate with stakeholders. To be successful, research analysts must also be well-organized and have the ability to work independently and meet deadlines. Good knowledge of the transportation sector and its regulations is also beneficial.

Having these skills enables transportation research analysts to develop sound recommendations that can improve transportation systems, making them a valuable asset for organizations.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What methods and techniques do you use when conducting transportation research?
How do you ensure accuracy in your research findings?
How do you identify and address gaps in existing transportation research?
What experience do you have with analyzing data related to transportation systems?
How would you go about predicting the impact of new transportation policies?
Describe a successful transportation research project you have completed in the past.
What strategies do you use to keep up with developments in the transportation industry?
What challenges have you faced while conducting transportation research?
How do you prioritize conflicting demands when working on multiple research projects?
What innovations have you implemented to improve the efficiency of transportation research processes?

Common Tools in Industry

Statistical Analysis Software. Statistical analysis software is used to analyze data and generate reports to gain insights from it. (eg: SPSS)
Geographic Information Systems (GIS). GIS software is used to analyze spatial data and produce maps and 3D models. (eg: Esri ArcGIS)
Computer-aided Design (CAD). CAD software is used for engineering design and modeling. (eg: Autodesk AutoCAD)
Optimization Software. Optimization software helps to analyze and optimize transportation systems. (eg: OptiTrip)
Simulation Software. Simulation software is used to model and simulate transportation networks. (eg: AnyLogic)
Transportation Network Analysis Software. Network analysis software helps to analyze transportation networks and evaluate traffic flows. (eg: TransCAD)
Geographic Information Retrieval (GIR) Software. GIR software is used to retrieve geographic information from online sources. (eg: Google Maps API)
Visualization Software. Visualization software is used to create visual representations of data, such as charts and graphs. (eg: Tableau)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Public Transportation Association
Intelligent Transportation Society of America
Institute for Transportation Engineers
Transportation Research Board
Transportation Learning Center
National League of Cities
International Association of Public Transport
International Road Federation
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
National Association of City Transportation Officials

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Common Important Terms

Transit Planning. A process of assessing a community's needs and goals, and then planning and implementing transportation systems that meet those needs.
Traffic Engineering. The application of technology and scientific principles to the planning, operation, and design of roads, streets, and highways in order to provide safe, efficient, and cost-effective movement of vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). The application of computers, sensors, and other electronic devices to transportation systems to improve safety, efficiency, and mobility.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A collection of computer software and hardware used to capture, store, query, analyze, display, and manage geographic data for a variety of purposes.
Transport Modeling. The use of mathematical models to simulate the behavior of transportation systems or individual components of these systems.
Data Analysis. The process of collecting, organizing, and analyzing data in order to identify patterns, trends, and relationships.
Traffic Simulation. The use of computer software to simulate the behavior of transportation systems or individual components of these systems.
Travel Demand Forecasting. A tool used to predict future travel demand by understanding current and past trends in travel behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Transportation Research Analyst?

A Transportation Research Analyst is a professional who specializes in conducting research and analysis in the field of transportation, such as analyzing data to identify trends and developing solutions for transportation-related problems.

What qualifications are needed to become a Transportation Research Analyst?

To become a Transportation Research Analyst, one should typically have a bachelor's degree in a field related to transportation, such as civil engineering or urban planning, as well as knowledge of research methods and techniques. Experience in the transportation industry and strong analytical skills are also important.

What type of tasks do Transportation Research Analysts perform?

Transportation Research Analysts typically perform tasks such as collecting and analyzing data, identifying trends, and developing solutions to transportation-related problems. They may also develop reports, present findings to stakeholders, and recommend policy changes.

What type of environment do Transportation Research Analysts work in?

Transportation Research Analysts typically work in office environments, but may also be required to travel in order to conduct field research.

What is the average salary for a Transportation Research Analyst?

The average salary for a Transportation Research Analyst is around $60,000 per year. This can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.