Sr Cost Estimator

Metra • Chicago, IL

3d

About The Position

Reporting to the Director, Project Controls, the Senior Cost Estimator develops and coordinates cost and estimating policies, procedures, and systems for Metra’s Capital Delivery Program. The role manages cost and estimating plans and processes, oversees project estimates and budget tracking, and supports use of the Project Management Information System (PMIS). The position also provides training to system users and team members and promotes safe work practices. The candidate must be willing to travel within Metra’s six-county region and work flexible hours, including early mornings, late afternoons, evenings, or weekends.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• At least seven years of experience preparing cost estimates, preferably in an infrastructure-related field.
• Considerable knowledge of estimating and cost management best practices and procedures.
• Considerable knowledge of cost baseline creation and management.
• Knowledge of estimating and cost PMIS best practices.
• Knowledge of Earned Value Management.
• Good organizational, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Advanced-level math skills.
• Proficiency in PMIS and Microsoft 365.
• Ability to conduct training for multidisciplinary members.
• Ability to work independently, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to complete assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and be able to operate a vehicle.
• Must be willing to travel within Metra’s six-county region.
• Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Nice To Haves

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Responsibilities

• Manage cost and estimating management plans, processes, and procedures, including budgets and forecasts, for all Capital Delivery Program projects.
• Monitor milestone schedules and ensure estimates are accurately updated in the system and process documentation is accurately entered and maintained.
• Oversee development and implementation of project cost estimates and review and approve estimates needed for project charters.
• Oversee implementation, use, and training for the Project Management Information System (PMIS) for project costing and estimating; participate in updating training materials and train system users and team members.
• Support the Director, Project Controls in developing cost breakdown structures and schedules of values for program projects.
• Oversee baseline budget setup and initial loading into the budget management system; record commitments and expenditures; track budgets, commitments, and expenditure transactions; identify potential cost issues or overruns; and work with project teams to resolve issues and correct errors.
• Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to meet organizational needs.

What This Job Offers

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