Associate FLSA Status: Exempt Job Class: Billable Job Function: CONS - Consultant EEO Job Category: (2) Professional
About the Role:
The Associate Consultant role at VDA is a foundational, client-facing position that blends technical support, project coordination, and strategic problem-solving within the vertical transportation industry. You will collaborate with internal teams and external clients to identify challenges, propose solutions, and contribute to the successful delivery of projects involving elevators, escalators, and other conveyance systems. A core focus of this role is ensuring that all tasks - whether technical, administrative, or client-related - are completed to the highest standard, efficiently and effectively. Your work will directly support smooth operations across departments, keeping projects on track and clients informed. In this position, you’ll be exposed to a variety of vertical transportation activities, including field observations, data analysis, report preparation, and meeting participation. The role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on industry experience while developing skills in consulting, communication, and project execution. As an Associate Consultant, you’ll play a key role in helping VDA meet client expectations, drive internal goals forward, and grow as a trusted advisor in a specialized and expanding field.
Minimum Qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent work experience.
- Strong communication skills (both written and verbal).
- Detail-oriented, organized, and proactive mindset.
- Solid experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Ability to work effectively with clients, team members, and across departments.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior experience in project coordination, consulting, or a client-facing role.
- Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Monday.com, Asana, MS Project).
- Basic understanding of data analysis or reporting.
- Knowledge of the construction, real estate, or building services industries is a plus.
Responsibilities:
As an integral member of the VDA team, you will:
- Serve as a key support partner in client engagements, helping to identify challenges and offer consultative solutions.
- Participate in project planning, tracking milestones, and ensuring deliverables are met on time and to the highest standards.
- Conduct research, gather technical data, and assist with creating reports, proposals, and client presentations.
- Attend client and internal meetings to understand project goals and provide feedback and insights.
- Help maintain organized documentation and contribute to the operational efficiency of the team.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Skills:
The required skills for this position, such as strong communication and organizational abilities, will be utilized daily to ensure effective collaboration with Clients, team members and stakeholders. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite will enable the Associate to create professional documents and presentations that convey important information clearly. Problem-solving skills will be essential when addressing challenges that arise during project execution, allowing the Associate to contribute to innovative solutions. Additionally, familiarity with project management tools will enhance the Associate's ability to track progress and manage tasks efficiently. Preferred skills, such as data analysis, will provide the Associate with the capability to interpret information and support data-driven decision-making processes.
EEO/AA Employer/Veteran/Disabled Statement:
VDA provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. VDA is committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Employment decisions, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, discipline, and termination, are based on business needs, qualifications, merit, and performance. VDA maintains an affirmative action program consistent with applicable legal requirements and is committed to taking affirmative steps to ensure equal employment opportunities for qualified individuals. VDA supports the employment and advancement of qualified individuals with disabilities, protected veterans, and other individuals covered by applicable affirmative action obligations. VDA is the global leader in vertical transportation consulting and inspection services. We’ve helped clients with their vertical transportation needs since 1980. Our expertise and services impact the design, reliability, lifespan and safety of vertical transportation equipment.