Sr Cost Estimator

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 agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

This department oversees the design and construction of Metra capital projects and oversees the work of contractors implementing these projects. Capital projects overseen by this group include stations and parking as well as structural, electrical, and mechanical design.

Reporting to the Director, Project Controls, the Senior Cost Estimator is responsible for the development and coordination of all Cost and Estimating policies, procedures, and systems for Metra's Capital Delivery Program.

The primary duties include: Manage cost and estimating management plans, processes, and procedures (budget and forecast) for all projects within the Capital Delivery Program.

Monitor milestone schedules and ensure corresponding estimates are accurately updated in the system and documentation of processes and procedures is entered accurately and updated. 

Oversee the development and implementation of all project cost estimates within the program and review and approve estimates needed for project charters. 

Oversee the implementation, use, and training on the Project Management Information System (PMIS) for costing and estimating projects; participate in updating training materials; and provide training to system users and team members. 

Support the Director, Project Controls in developing cost breakdown structure and schedule of values for all projects within the program. 

Oversee setup and initial loading of baseline budget into budget management system; record commitments and expenditures; track all budgets, commitments, and  expenditure transactions; identify and track potential cost issues/overruns; and work with project team to resolve issues and correct errors. 

Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment.

Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

1. Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.

2. In addition to #1 above, must have a minimum of seven years of experience preparing cost estimates, preferably in an infrastructure related field.

3. Considerable knowledge of:

• estimating and cost management best practices and procedures.
• cost baseline creation and management.

4. Knowledge of:

• the estimating and cost PMIS best practices.
• Earned Value Management.

5. Good organizational, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

6. Strong verbal and written communication skills.

7. Advanced level math skills.

8. Proficient in PMIS and Microsoft 365.

9. Ability to:

• conduct training consisting of multi-disciplinary members.
• work independently, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
• complete assignments accurately and with attention to detail.

Must be:

• able to operate a vehicle and be willing to travel within Metra's 6-county region.
• available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Preferred:

• Project Management Professional 

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees' use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for pre-employment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.