Position Summary The Business Analyst for Strategic Initiatives is a vital link between business and IT at HCTRA. Partnering with teams across the agency, the analyst identifies, evaluates, and prioritizes high‑impact projects that advance our strategic objectives. They build clear business cases, streamline processes, and deliver data‑driven insights to keep initiatives on track. The role also partners with department leaders to develop, monitor, and report on Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), ensuring every effort remains aligned, measurable, and timely—ultimately boosting operational efficiency, customer experience, and organizational performance. Key Responsibilities Strategic Analysis & Planning: Collaborate with stakeholders to translate strategic objectives into actionable project scopes, success criteria, and timelines. OKR Formation & Management: Partner with department leadership to define, document, and track Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) for the Strategic Initiatives group. Facilitate goal‑setting workshops, maintain OKR dashboards, and report progress to stakeholders to drive alignment and accountability. Business Case Development: Conduct cost–benefit analyses, prepare ROI forecasts, and present recommendations to executive sponsors. Requirements Elicitation: Lead workshops and interviews with business users to gather and document detailed requirements for process redesign, system enhancements, and new capabilities. Process Modeling: Map current (“as-is”) and future (“to-be”) business processes using industry-standard tools (e.g., Visio, Lucidchart). Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities; develop dashboards and reports to track key performance indicators (KPIs). Solution Evaluation: Research and evaluate potential solutions (software, tools, or methodologies) and facilitate vendor assessments when needed. Stakeholder Management: Act as liaison between business units, IT, and external partners to ensure alignment and clear communication throughout project lifecycles. Change Management Support: Assist in developing communication plans, training materials, and user adoption strategies to ensure successful implementation. Testing & Validation: Define acceptance criteria, coordinate user acceptance testing (UAT), and validate that delivered solutions meet business requirements. Post-Implementation Review: Track benefit realization, gather feedback, and recommend iterative improvements. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of experience in a relevant field: business analytics, computer systems, or information technology Minimum 3–5 years of experience as a business analyst, preferably in strategic planning or project-based environments. Proven expertise in business case development, process mapping, and requirements management. Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) and advanced Excel. Excellent facilitation, presentation, and written communication skills. Ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all organizational levels. Familiarity with project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall) and tools (JIRA, MS Project). Preferred Qualifications Experience within public-sector transportation or infrastructure organizations. Knowledge of tolling operations or transportation management systems. Certification in business analysis (CBAP, PMI-PBA) or change management (Prosci). Core Competencies Strategic thinking & problem-solving Financial acumen & ROI analysis Process improvement mindset Adaptability & collaboration Attention to detail & quality Ability to translate technical language for diverse audiences Work Environment Requires 100% on-site presence at HCTRA offices in Houston, TX. Occasional travel to project sites or partner meetings as required. Equal Opportunity Employer HCTRA is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Job Types: Full-time, Contract Pay: $50.00 - $55.00 per hour Schedule: Monday to Friday Experience: business analytics, computer systems, or IT: 5 years (Required) strategic planning or project-based environments: 5 years (Required) business case development & process mapping: 5 years (Required) data visualization tools: Power BI & Tableau: 5 years (Required) PM methodologies: Agile & Waterfall: 5 years (Required) Tools: Jira & MS Projects: 1 year (Required) License/Certification: CBAP, PMI-PBA Certification (Required) Prosci Change Management (Required) Location: Harris County, TX (Required) Work Location: In person