Sr Electrical Engineer

Metra•Chicago, IL

17h•Onsite

About The Position

The Electrical Engineer applies specialized expertise in the performance of electrical design, construction, and project management functions. This role provides technical guidance on the repair and maintenance of newly installed equipment to maintenance electricians working on Metra commuter railroad lines, facilities, and stations. Additionally, the Electrical Engineer trains less experienced staff on division operations. Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The Engineering Department is responsible for building and maintaining the majority of Metra’s fixed assets, such as buildings, stations, bridges, track, electrical, telecommunications and signal systems. The department also monitors the condition of and assists in building and maintaining the fixed assets on the freight lines where Metra trains operate. The Engineering Department is divided into two major groups: Capital Projects, and Communications and Maintenance.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college or university.
A minimum of eight (8) years experience including both: the design of electrical power distribution systems with some railroad specific electrical systems, lighting, and control; and project management experience that includes engineering design or construction.
Considerable knowledge of electrical engineering principles and standards.
Considerable knowledge of electrical systems and equipment.
Considerable knowledge of specification writing.
Good knowledge of the National Electric Code, Chicago Building Code, and NFPA standards.
Knowledge of DC train traction power.
Considerable skill preparing and interpreting engineering plans, cost estimates, and technical drawings.
Good math, analytical, organizational, and problems solving skills.
Good verbal and written communication skills.
Good inter-personal skills to work with various engineering departments, freight railroads, and governmental agencies.
Proficient in AutoCAD or Microstation software and Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a demanding environment.
Ability to work as a team leader or independently on major projects.
Ability to evaluate complex technical problems and apply engineering knowledge to provide practical and cost-effective solutions.
Ability to deliver presentations on technical subject matter.
Must possess and maintain a current driver's license and able to operate a vehicle.
Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds.
Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra’s 6-county region.
Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the design of railroad engineering projects, specifically DC traction power is preferred.
Licensed Professional Electrical Engineer

Responsibilities

Manage consultants including: developing and maintaining project schedules, leading planning and progress meetings, monitoring and approving tasks, visiting job sites to inspect work-in-progress for compliance with contract specifications and quality standards, and resolving technical issues.
Prepare design packages including drawings, specifications, cost estimates, and technical calculations for power distribution projects, electrical equipment purchases, and lighting systems, ensuring compliance with federal and local codes, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and electrical industry standards.
Prepare contract documents required to solicit projects for bid; participate in pre-bid meetings to respond to scope, specification, and technical questions; review vendor bid proposals for compliance, feasibility, efficiency, and cost effectiveness; and make recommendations for contract awards.
Perform contract administration duties including: reviewing invoices for contract compliance, accuracy, and supporting documentation; evaluating change orders and contract modifications for cost effectiveness and necessity; and approving or resolving payment discrepancies.
Manage contract files according to Metra quality management plan, keep orderly and accurate records of all project related correspondence, and prepare detailed project status reports.
Coordinate team’s day-to-day activities, assign tasks/projects and monitor performance, and provide guidance and training, but is not a supervisor.
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.