Contracting Officer 1

Salary Range

$53,703.00 - $80,555.00

Description

Metra is one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic commuter rail systems, proudly serving riders across Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry counties. Every day, our team plays an essential role in connecting communities by delivering safe, dependable, and efficient service.

Our Procurement Operations division, guided by the Sr. Division Director, includes four collaborative teams: Procurement, Materials & Services Procurement, Professional Services Procurement, and Construction & Facility Maintenance. We work together to ensure Metra has the resources it needs to keep the region moving.

Reporting to the Manager of Procurement, the Contracting Officer 1 plays a supportive and essential role in Metra’s procurement activities. This position assists with a variety of procurement processes and assigned tasks; helps review and prepare simple, low risk procurement contracts and documents; researches market and pricing information; strengthens vendor relationships; and ensures all procurement activities align with local, state, and federal requirements while safeguarding the agency’s interests.

What You’ll Do

• Reviewing and preparing less-complex contracts, specifications, and solicitation documents for various goods and services, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and standards.
• Gather information on market conditions, pricing, and vendor options to support informed procurement decisions.
• Assist with recommending, negotiating, and preparing specifications, scopes of work, pricing, and contract terms for goods and services.
• Support contract administration activities by helping monitor contractor performance, track progress and schedules, and address issues that may arise; assist with dispute resolution as appropriate.
• Communicate with internal teams, vendors, and other stakeholders to support procurement processes and provide accurate, timely updates.
• Participate in meetings and help identify procurement alternatives that enhance value and support timely project delivery.
• Promote safe work practices and contribute to a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment.
• Perform other related duties as needed to support the evolving needs of the organization.
  
  

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.

Click here to learn more about our benefits!

Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.

This position is covered by the State Officials and Employees Act “Revolving Door” prohibition (5 ILCS 430/545), which restricts certain Metra employees (or their spouse or immediate family member) from accepting employment or compensation from a non-Metra employer for one year after separation if they were personally and substantially involved in awarding or managing a contract of $25,000 or more with that employer.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Supply Chain, Materials Management, Industrial Distribution, or related field, OR a combination of education and experience totaling four (4) years in procurement operations, contract administration/management, or senior buying, preferably in government, rail, public transportation, or manufacturing.
• Knowledge of basic procurement and contracting principles, practices, and procedures.
• Familiarity with laws and regulations governing public sector procurement and contract activities.
• Intermediate skills in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation and tracking.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, procurement or materials management software, and solicitation/contract management applications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with internal partners and vendors.
• Strong organizational and analytical abilities with careful attention to detail when reviewing and preparing documents.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and work independently or collaboratively.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to analyze data, evaluate proposals, and identify potential risks or concerns.
• Commitment to maintaining the integrity of procurement processes and high ethical standards.
  
  

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

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

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 preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre, employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.

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.