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 of Stations and Parking, the Architect II performs intermediate level professional architectural duties in connection with the design, construction, and renovation of station and parking facility projects and manages projects of moderate complexity leading design efforts, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with Metra's guidelines and quality standards.

The primary duties include: Participate on project teams as the resident architect reviewing plans and designs prepared by in-house staff or consultants for compliance with Station Design Guidelines, zoning and code compliance, efficiencies, cost effectiveness, and constructability; and recommending changes to ensure compliance with scope, budget, and schedules. Monitor project progress, identify and manage project risks; recommend solutions to keep projects within budget, scope, and schedule; and ensure compliance with contract specifications, design guidelines, best practices, and quality and safety standards. Develop and maintain strong stakeholder relationships both within and outside the organization to facilitate project coordination, foster communications, and accomplish the department's work. Prepare and manage project budgets and oversee the preparation of project cost estimates, scopes of work, and schedules prepared by consultants. Participate in the contract administration process including reviewing bids and proposals, negotiating consultant level-of-effort and contracts; negotiating and processing contract changes; authorizing contract payments upon work completion; and evaluating vendor performance and recommending appropriate action when performance does not meet contract specifications. 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.

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 Architecture or Civil Engineering.
2. In addition to #1, must have two years of Architectural or Civil design experience that includes project management.
3. Good knowledge of the principles and best practices of planning, Architectural/Engineering design, procurement, and construction projects.
4. Good knowledge of project management, project controls, and contract administration principles and best practices.
5. Good knowledge of local, state, and federal requirements for capital projects at all phases.
6. Good knowledge of building codes, zoning ordinances, accessibility codes is required.
7. Good organizational, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
8. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
9. Proficient in Microsoft 365. Skill with design software/workflows for Power BI, Adobe Creative Suite, CAD and/or BIM software, 3D modeling software, and GIS is preferred.
10. Skill conceptualizing complex architectural designs.
11. Good project management skills.
12. Conflict resolution skills.
13. Ability to review, analyze, and conceptualize complex architectural designs.
14. Ability to prepare detailed architectural schematics, drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
15. Ability to provide leadership to interdisciplinary project teams and build relationships with individuals both within and outside of the organization.
16. Ability to prepare detailed architectural schematics, drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
17. Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
18. Ability to work efficiently under pressure and tight deadlines.
19. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
20. Must be able to operate a vehicle.
21. Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra's 6-county region.
22. Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Preferred:

1. Knowledge of NEPA/Section 106/707 requirements and AREMA Manuals.
2. Project Management Professional certification.
3. Illinois Licensed Architect or Professional Engineer

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.