Senior Analyst, Budget & Financial Analysis

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is seeking a detail oriented and analytical professional to serve as the Senior Analyst, Budget & Financial Analysis for the Budget & Treasury division. Under the general direction of the Manager, Budget and Analysis, this position will be responsible for reviewing and analyzing the budgets of the Agency, Service Boards (CTA, Metra and Pace) and the Agency region. Conducts on-going analysis and monitoring of financial performance of the Agency, Service Boards and the Agency region. The incumbent will attend monthly Service Board meetings and produces summary notes of topics discussed for dissemination to NITA staff. A new era has begun for transit in the Chicago region. The Illinois General Assembly recently passed a landmark transit funding and reform bill. This legislation includes an estimated $1.2 billion in new annual operating funding for CTA, Metra, and Pace. The bill reorganizes the transit system under a new regional authority, the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA), transforming the RTA to take on new responsibilities including setting fares, enhancing and coordinating service, overseeing long-term capital planning, and leading implementation of unified rider-focused tools such as more seamless mobile ticketing (see more details). Key responsibilities include but are not limited to: Reviews and analyzes the budgets of the Agency, the Service Boards, and the Agency region. Coordinates with Service Boards on annual budget development process. Prepares analyses for Agency management, the Agency board, and the public that examine key budget issues and compliance with budget criteria as outlined in the Agency Act. Conducts on-going analysis and monitoring of financial performance of the Agency, the Service Boards, and the region. Prepares monthly and quarterly financial and statistical analyses and public reports of trends and variances. Ensures primary factors affecting financial performance are studied and clearly communicated to Agency management. Prepares Board memos, ordinances, and schedules for funding and budget actions to be considered for adoption by the Agency Board. Presents financial results and budget items at Agency Board meetings as required. Develops and maintains spreadsheet-based models of Agency regional financial capacity including a ten-year financial plan as directed by the Agency Act. Uses model to forecast long range regional funding needs and analyze the impacts of policy alternatives. Assists in preparation of the annual Agency and Service Boards’ operating budgets working with staff and management to determine specific line-item expense and revenue estimates. Applies financial and operational knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to conduct research, analyses and planning evaluations of public transportation issues. Proposes and develops special improvement initiatives. Assists in the development of policy recommendations and provides guidance and input to senior management on such issues. Attends monthly CTA, Metra, or Pace Board meetings and produces summary notes of topics discussed for dissemination to NITA staff. Acts in a manner that is consistent with the Agency's strategic goals and objectives, as approved by the Agency Board, while providing service of the highest level to our internal and external customers. Performs other related duties as required or assigned that contribute to the effectiveness of the department and the Agency. The ideal candidate must have the following: The knowledge, skills, and abilities equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree in Public or Business Administration, Accounting, Finance or a related field required. A minimum of one to three (1 – 3) years of experience in public or private business and an emphasis on financial analysis required. Public sector and transit experience a plus. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to build multi-year financial models and stress‑test by modeling alternative policy scenarios. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the ability to manage complex spreadsheets and analyze data. Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Experience with ERP testing and implementation desirable. Must be able to work independently, plan and organize tasks, solve problems and complete projects in collaboration with various RTA, Service Boards and contract personnel. Ability to maintain confidential information required. Benefits: Pension plan or 401(k) salary match provided by the RTA at no cost to you 401(k) and/or 457 plan options Hybrid work environment and flexible work schedules Transit benefits to support your commute Twelve paid holidays and one floating holiday Competitive personal leave package Parental leave Flexible Spending Account Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employee Assistance Program This role typically offers salaries near $76,475, and the RTA offers competitive salaries with the possibility of a higher offer for highly qualified candidates. #J-18808-Ljbffr Regional Transportation Authority of Northeastern Illinois (RTA)