Senior Architect

Metra • Chicago, IL

3d

About The Position

The Senior Architect performs senior-level professional architectural duties for the design, construction, and renovation of station and parking facility projects. Reporting to the Director of Stations and Parking, this role manages complex projects and leads design efforts to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with Metra guidelines and quality standards. The role is part of Metra’s Capital Delivery Department, which oversees the design, construction, and administration of capital projects and manages consultants and contractors.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Civil Engineering.
• At least five years of Architectural or Civil design experience that includes project management.
• Considerable knowledge of planning, architectural/engineering design, procurement, and construction project principles and best practices.
• Considerable knowledge of project management, project controls, and contract administration principles and best practices.
• Good knowledge of building codes, zoning ordinances, and accessibility codes.
• Good knowledge of local, state, and federal requirements for capital projects at all phases.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365.
• Good ability to conceptualize architectural designs.
• Strong project management and conflict-resolution skills.
• Skill in preparing complex architectural schematics, drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Ability to comprehend, understand, and continuously improve architectural/engineering contract documents and contract structures.
• Ability to provide leadership to interdisciplinary project teams and build relationships within and outside the organization.
• Ability to prepare detailed, complex architectural schematics, drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously and work efficiently under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and be able to operate a vehicle.
• Must be willing to travel within and outside Metra’s six-county region.
• Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of NEPA/Section 106/707 requirements and AREMA Manuals.
• Skill with design software or workflows such as Power BI, Adobe Creative Suite, CAD and/or BIM software, 3D modeling software, and GIS.
• Project Management Professional certification.
• Illinois Licensed Architect or Professional Engineer.

Responsibilities

• Lead project teams in reviewing architectural plans and designs prepared by in-house staff or consultants for compliance with Station Design Guidelines, zoning and codes, efficiency, cost effectiveness, and constructability; recommend changes to meet project scope, budget, and schedule.
• Monitor project progress, identify and manage risks, recommend solutions to keep projects within budget, scope, and schedule, and ensure compliance with contract specifications, design guidelines, best practices, and quality and safety standards.
• Develop and maintain stakeholder relationships within and outside the organization to coordinate projects, foster communication, and accomplish departmental work.
• Prepare and manage project budgets and oversee consultants’ preparation of cost estimates, scopes of work, and schedules.
• Lead contract administration, including reviewing bids and proposals; negotiating consultant level-of-effort and contracts; negotiating and processing contract changes; authorizing payments upon completion of work; and evaluating vendor performance and recommending action when performance does not meet contract specifications.
• Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the organization’s ongoing needs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior