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

Engineering is responsible for building and maintaining the majority of Metra’s fixed assets, such as buildings, stations, bridges, track, electrical, telecommunications and signal systems. The Engineering Department also monitors the condition of and assists in building and maintaining the fixed assets on the freight lines where Metra trains operate. The Engineering Department is divided into two major groups: Capital Projects, and Communications and Maintenance.

Reporting to the Director, Stations and Parking Design, the Manager, Wayfinding and Signs will supervise staff and oversee both design and installation projects for wayfinding and signs at Metra's 242 stations and parking facilities.

The primary duties include: Manage the development, updating, and implementation of system-wide graphic designs and specifications for Metra's Station Wayfinding and Signs Program. Develop and manage technical project work scopes, budgets, and contract documents, including ADA-required sign projects. Assign, review, and evaluate the work of staff engaged in designing and project managing the design and replacement of all station and parking signs throughout the Metra system. Audit and approve payment invoices for assigned projects ensuring accuracy, completeness of charges and supporting documentation, and ensuring compliance with contracts and budgets. Oversee the design and implementation of a system to document station and parking sign inspections, work orders, installations, and geolocations. Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as necessary, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies and objectives. Decide/implement staffing decision, performance evaluations, and performance improvement, disciplinary, and/or termination procedures. Make recommendations regarding hiring, performance evaluations, disciplinary and/or termination procedures. Works under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Candidates can expect salary offers that range from the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidate can consider their growth potential.

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

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Transportation Planning, or a related discipline.
• In addition to #1, must have seven years of progressively responsible environmental graphic design or related work experience.
• Must have experience managing projects, including fiscal responsibilities.
• Good knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign.
• Good knowledge of Bentley MicroStation or Autodesk Revit is preferred.
• Good analytical and organization skills with attention to detail.
• Considerable skill in preparing clear and effective graphics and drawings.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good project management skills.
• Skill in GIS Mapping such as ESRI GIS and/or in document management software such as Bentley ProjectWise.
• Proficient in sign and/or map design.
• Ability to manage design and construction projects, including creating contract documents.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize multiple objectives, and bring projects to completion within a deadline-sensitive environment.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Ability to stand, walk, and/or, for extended periods of time.
• Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to operate a vehicle.
• Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra's 6-county region.
• Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

On May 11, 2023, both the state of IL and the federal government will put an end to the COVID-19 emergency measures. Effective May 11, 2023, Metra's COVID vaccine requirements will be suspended until further notice.

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 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.