Chief Transportation Officer

Description 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 links communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service. Transportation is responsible for safe, efficient, and dependable service on all Metra‑operated lines, including Milwaukee North and West, Rock Island, Metra Electric, Southwest Service, North Central Service, Union Pacific, Heritage Corridor, and the BNSF purchase‑of‑service line. The Chief Transportation Officer reports directly to the Assistant Deputy Executive Director‑Operations and provides strategic leadership and direction to the transportation division. Key responsibilities include setting operational policies, safety standards, and performance metrics; overseeing all train movements, crews, and scheduling; ensuring transparency and fiscal accountability for large operating budgets; and ensuring agency‑wide compliance with Federal Railroad Administration regulations and safety rules. The final salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications. Those with eight 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. During recruitment, qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Eligibility and Requirements Bachelor's degree in transportation, business administration, engineering, public administration, or a related field, or a combination of education and experience equal to four (4) years of relevant experience. Minimum 15 years of progressive transportation experience, with at least 10 years focused on railroad operations or the railroad industry, and senior management level experience in a large public or private rail organization of similar size and complexity. Seven (7) years of progressive supervisory experience, including day‑to‑day management, task assignment, guidance, training, performance monitoring, conflict management, budgeting, hiring, and disciplinary actions. Comprehensive knowledge of transportation system operation; planning, organizing, and implementing operational activities of a comprehensive regional transit system. Knowledge of financial management, forecasting, and managing large operating budgets. Knowledge of regulatory frameworks for local, state, and federal law such as FRA safety standards and transportation regulations; labor agreements and relations; railroad operating rules; and the characteristics of the rail territory. Familiarity with operational systems such as positive train control (PTC), computer‑aided dispatching, and crew management systems. Strong leadership, conflict management, and strategic, analytical, planning, and organizational skills. Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Word and Excel) and effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage changing priorities, make quick high‑stakes decisions during emergencies, and maintain a 24/7/365 work environment. Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a vehicle. Readiness to travel within and outside of Metra’s 6‑county region and work flexible hours, including early mornings, late afternoons, evenings, weekends, and on‑call 24/7/365. Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy, or with documented attendance or performance issues, will not be considered. Metra prohibits applicants and employees from using or possessing marijuana, or having detectable amounts for pre‑employment screening, while on duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles. Will communicate veterans preference per Illinois Veterans Preference Act during recruitment. Salary Range $185,620.00 - $278,432.00 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr