Sr Field Engineer

Metra•Chicago, IL

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. The department also includes Project Management, NEPA, Project Controls, and Project Administration teams. The Senior Field Engineer implements large and complex railroad and civil construction projects and provides a critical interface among construction contractors, consultants, and Metra forces to support completion of capital construction projects. The role plans and oversees Metra’s interactions with other agencies and coordinates with railroad operations, maintenance, and construction teams. It also reviews project documents, monitors quality-assurance and quality-control compliance, reviews contract and payment materials, responds to contractor inquiries, and represents the Engineering Department at public meetings and hearings. The position requires flexible availability, including non-operating hours, weekends, and holidays. Other related duties may be assigned to meet the organization’s ongoing needs. Metra is a railroad employer subject to the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and construction and/or civil engineering experience totaling four years.
At least eight years of demonstrated civil engineering and/or construction experience.
Knowledge of railroad operations, track construction, maintenance, or design.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and Word.
Excellent verbal, written, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a demanding environment.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Civil engineering and/or construction experience in railroading, transportation, manufacturing, or a related industry.
State of Illinois registered Professional Engineer license.

Responsibilities

Implement large and complex railroad and civil construction projects.
Serve as a critical interface with construction contractors, consultants, and Metra forces to support completion of capital construction projects.
Plan and oversee Metra’s interactions with municipal and state agencies, other railroads, and adjacent property owners.
Coordinate with Metra railroad operations, maintenance, and construction operations, including work involving track construction and layout and surveying.
Review design drawings, specifications, and estimates for accuracy and constructability.
Monitor the mandated FTA QA/QC program to ensure compliance and proper operational maintenance.
Review contract modifications, contract change orders, and monthly pay applications.
Provide guidance on day-to-day Engineering Department operations.
Respond to contractors’ Requests for Information (RFIs) and Records of Contractors’ Contacts (ROCCs).
Serve as a liaison and represent the Engineering Department as a subject matter expert at public meetings and hearings related to grant projects.
Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the organization’s ongoing needs.