Associate Director Transport Planner

About Jacobs and Role Overview

Jacobs is dedicated to addressing critical global challenges by innovating for thriving cities, resilient environments, and advanced industries. We transform visionary ideas into practical solutions that reshape the world positively.

This role seeks an accomplished leader in transport planning who is trusted by clients and teams to direct and execute large-scale programs that influence transportation systems. You will bring strategic vision, technical expertise, and commercial insight while leading by example on complex projects that enhance mobility.

Responsibilities

• Providing strategic and technical leadership on significant transport planning projects.
• Managing and guiding multidisciplinary teams to deliver excellent client results.
• Serving as a trusted advisor to clients, influencing policy, strategies, and investment decisions.
• Delivering technical governance and mentoring within the transport planning discipline.
• Overseeing project delivery including budgets, resources, quality standards, and risk management.
• Contributing to business growth through tenders and client relationship enhancement.
• Shaping the future direction of Jacobs' transport planning and mobility services.

Project Focus

Key work includes transport modeling, economic appraisals, active and sustainable travel planning, public transport strategies, traffic engineering, and policy development. Major projects include involvement in the BusConnects program for the National Transport Authority and active travel schemes for local authorities.

Location and Working Style

The position is flexible across Dublin, Cork, or Belfast, combining hands-on technical work with leadership and client engagement. Opportunities for client secondments are also available.

Qualifications and Experience

• A degree in a relevant field or equivalent qualification with substantial experience in transport planning project delivery.
• Professional chartership (or pursuit thereof) such as through Engineers Ireland, CIHT, or CEng, with commitment to continuing professional development.
• A strategic and solution-oriented mindset able to address complex transport challenges collaboratively.
• Strong technical credibility with the ability to lead teams, provide mentorship, and ensure technical quality.
• Extensive exposure across transport planning areas including feasibility studies, transport assessments, modeling, business case development, public transport, and active travel.
• Proven skills in project and commercial management including program oversight, budget control, resource allocation, quality assurance, and risk control.
• Client-centric approach with experience in relationship building, tendering, and business development.
• Adaptability and enthusiasm for innovation, advanced technologies, and shaping the future of sustainable transport.

Employee Benefits and Culture

• Competitive salary and bonus appropriate to senior leadership roles.
• Flexible, hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Employer pension contributions and generous paid leave with additional purchase options.
• Paid professional memberships and strong support for professional growth and chartership.
• Clear career progression opportunities within Ireland, the UK, and Jacobs’ global network.
• Engagement in impactful, high-profile transport projects.
• Possibility of client secondments reflecting deep organizational partnerships.
• Inclusive culture emphasizing diversity, collaboration, innovation, and employee wellbeing.
• Supportive environment fostering mental health, belonging, and flexible work options.

Inclusion and Accessibility

Jacobs is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace valuing diverse perspectives and experiences. Candidates with disabilities and those seeking flexible working arrangements are encouraged to apply. Reasonable adjustments can be provided during recruitment upon request.