Manager, Certification Program

Description

This position is eligible for telework, which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Opening:

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is North America's largest transportation network, serving a population of 15.3 million people across a 5,000-square-mile travel area surrounding New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. The MTA network comprises the nation’s largest bus fleet and more subway and commuter rail cars than all other U.S. transit systems combined. MTA strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities.

Job Summary:

This position is responsible for determining the initial eligibility of businesses seeking certification as Disadvantaged Business Enterprises ("DBE") with the MTA and the New York State Unified Certification Program ("NYSUCP") in accordance with federal regulatory requirements set forth at 49 CFR Part 26. This position is additionally responsible for the annual review of DBE-certified firms for compliance with certification eligibility criteria and assisting in the management of the federally mandated NYSUCP. This position is also responsible for determining the eligibility of businesses seeking certification as a Minority and/or Woman-owned Business Enterprise ("MWBE") in accordance with the New York State Executive Law Article 15-A Section 310-317. The incumbent will support the New York State Empire Development Corporation's Division of Minority and Women's Business Development (DMWBD) Program to increase the number of certified firms listed in the New York State directory of certified firms.

Responsibilities:

• Provide support to the MTA’s $68.4 billion 2025-2029 capital program by expediting MWDBE certification reviews and recertifications to those bona fide minority or woman-owned business enterprises seeking to work directly with the MTA and its agencies and prime contractors identified on capital projects.
• Review new applications for MWDBE certification and annual DBE recertification. Develop a comprehensive certification file and communicate with qualifying owners to request additional information to complete the application, as required.
• Obtain information and documentation from other sources, as required, and analyze all information associated with determining a firm’s eligibility for certification in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Conduct a comprehensive and investigative Eligibility Review Meeting for each new applicant seeking MWDBE certification with the MTA, to gather information relative to the applicant’s compliance with certification eligibility criteria as outlined in the governing federal and state regulations. The meeting provides the opportunity to address issues raised and/or not resolved by a review of submitted documentation.
• Conduct an on-site review of the principal place of business for each new applicant, as mandated by governing federal and state regulations. Review corporate and business documentation, financial records, contracts, and other information.
• Prepare on-site review report for inclusion in applicant file and for dissemination to transit properties throughout the country, if required. On-site reviews ensure that an applicant is in the location represented and provide an opportunity to interview staff, review original business documents, and determine issues of independence.
• Conduct job site review for applicants performing on contracts within the MTA service area, as mandated by governing federal and state regulations. The manager is required to observe the job performance of the applicant as well as to interact with the prime contractor and project managers in accessing applicant firm. Prepares job site report for inclusion in applicant file. A job site visit provides an opportunity for verification of the services represented by the applicant.
• Prepare a comprehensive written evaluation of certification eligibility for each new application, analyzing the applicant’s compliance with DBE and/or MWBE eligibility criteria as set forth in the governing federal regulations, to ensure that certification determination rendered is supported by facts and that only bona fide disadvantaged businesses receive DBE certification.
• Review annual submissions of certified firms to ensure that they continue to meet federal eligibility criteria for certification.
• Support the MTA’s DBE and MWBE certification process. The Manager will act to ensure that the certification requirements for those applying are fully met, and are accurate and timely in an effort to protect the MTA against any allegation of arbitrariness.
• Maintain excellent detailed records to not only assist the applicant firms but also to protect the MTA and its Agencies against any charges in case of denial of certification.
• Assist in any and all special projects, outreach activities, and development of reports, as may be required, and serve as a resource in referring firms to the BSC and Procurement for specific projects and opportunities.
• Maintain an electronic database of certified DBEs, in accordance with the provisions of NYSUCP, to ensure completeness and accuracy of vendor file information.
• Develop a comprehensive certification file and communicate with qualifying owners to request additional information to complete the application, as required.
• Develop and maintain a document management process to include preparation and review of inactive certification files for storage in accordance with MTA Records Management policy.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Must have general knowledge of small businesses and of the characteristics of the various business structures.
• Deadline-driven self-starter with proven ability to work under pressure
• Attention to detail is required.
• Independent thinking skills are essential, along with proven interviewing, investigative, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to independently research information.
• Excellent organizational and writing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact well with external agencies. External agencies may include the Governor’s Office for New York State, the New York City government, elected and other public officials, as well as any staff located at other federal or state agencies or authorities.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-profile, high-pressure environment effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with key internal and/or external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to complete short- and long-term projects effectively and as efficiently as possible.
• Demonstrated analytical capabilities and quantitative skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or comparable applications, i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Experience with D/M/WBE programs
• Prior experience conducting investigative review meetings and/or hearings.
• Knowledge and understanding of Federal and State Laws governing D/M/WBE programs and requirements, 49 CFR Part 26 and Article 15-A of the Executive Law of New York State.
• Familiarity with and understanding of public benefit organizations and the operation of MTA and its operating agencies
• Working knowledge of the contracting, construction, professional service and manufacturing and supply industries

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in finance, accounting, business, or a related major, or an equivalent combination of education from an accredited college and experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum 5 years work experience in auditing/financial analysis and/or conducting insurance or fraud investigations, of which at least 3 years are in a non-clerical role.
• An equivalent combination of education from an accredited college and experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Other Information

May need to work outside of normal work hours (i.e., evenings and weekends)

Travel may be required to other MTA locations or other external sites.

According to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.