Manager, Rail Contract Administration

Position Overview Metra is America’s fourth busiest commuter rail system, providing essential transportation services to a community of over 9.4 million residents. The final salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications. Those with 8 years or more of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential. Responsibilities Manage projects: conduct research to assess needs, options, and alternatives; define project scope, objectives, and budgets; develop plans and schedules; and establish milestones to monitor project performance. Plan, direct, and review the work of staff; assign work activities and projects; review and evaluate work products, methods, and procedures; and meet with staff to identify and resolve problems. Participate in the hiring and disciplining of staff, including performing performance evaluations, implementing performance improvement, disciplinary, and/or termination procedures. Develop and implement departmental and divisional objectives, goals, policies, procedures, and priorities, including dates for agreements to be updated, employee training, and records retention. Direct administration of existing operating agreements (Purchase of Service, Trackage Rights, Joint Facility, and Fixed Facility Agreements) ensuring compliance with each agreement’s terms. Serve as point‑of‑contact for Metra with other railroads, Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD), and Amtrak regarding contractual issues, billings, payments, and correspondence; resolve sensitive and controversial matters expediently. Approve invoices from other parties on an "As needed" basis and approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies. Promote safe work practices and maintain a safe work environment. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in contract management, economics, business, public administration or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience that equals four (4) years of experience in contract administration, development, or management. Six (6) years’ experience negotiating and/or administering operating contracts, preferably in the transportation or railroad industry. Comprehensive knowledge of contract administration methods, processes, and procedures. Good knowledge of government procurement regulations. Good knowledge of Purchase of Service Agreements, Trackage Rights Agreements, Joint Facility Agreements, and Fixed Facility Agreements. Knowledge of railroad operations and maintenance. Good organizational, analytical, and math skills. Good verbal and written communication skills. Good supervisory skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites (Word, Outlook, Excel) and an ERP system similar to Microsoft AX. Ability to draft accurate railroad operating agreements. Ability to monitor multiple projects and ensure timely completion. Ability to read and interpret complex contracts. Roadway Worker Certification required; applicant may become certified within 90 days of position acceptance. Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for extended periods of time; hearing and visual acuity as specified. Willingness to travel within Metra’s 6‑county region. Availability to work flexible hours, including early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends. Preferred Supervisory experience. EEO Statement 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. Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration. #J-18808-Ljbffr Ocean State Job Lot