Sr Cost Estimator

Metra • Chicago, IL

3d

About The Position

Metra’s Capital Delivery Department oversees the design, construction, and administration of capital projects, including stations, parking, and structural, civil, electrical, mechanical, traction power, wayfinding, and signage work. 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 project cost and estimating plans and processes, oversees the development and review of estimates, supports budget management, and leads implementation and training related to the Project Management Information System (PMIS). The position also promotes safe work practices and performs other related duties as assigned.

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 projects within the Capital Delivery Program.
• Monitor milestone schedules and ensure estimates are updated accurately in the system and related process and procedure documentation is accurately entered and maintained.
• Oversee the development and implementation of project cost estimates across the program and review and approve estimates required for project charters.
• Oversee implementation, use, and training on the 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 the cost breakdown structure and schedule of values for all program projects.
• Oversee setup and initial loading of baseline budgets into the budget management system.
• Record commitments and expenditures; track budgets, commitments, and expenditure transactions; identify and monitor 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 the ongoing needs of the organization.

What This Job Offers

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