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Principal Planner, Metra - Chicago, IL

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Reporting directly to the Department Head Long Range Planning, the Principal Planner will lead planning activities in support of Metra’s strategic planning efforts and other regional, corridor, and station planning studies of the Metra rail system including planning for major capital expansion projects.  Perform statistical, geographical, quantitative and qualitative analysis; provide analytical or other support to other departments and/or divisions within Metra.  Lead specific commuter rail planning studies involving a wide range of transportation planning and policy analysis issues.  Assist in establishing standards and practices for spatial and mapping data.  Manage the development of applications for competitive funding sources.  Represent Metra at various regional and community planning meetings and professionally communicate with internal and external stakeholders.  Perform other related duties as needed to meet the ongoing needs of the organization. 
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must have Bachelor’s degree in Urban, Regional, Transportation Planning, Business Administration, Geography, Economics, Statistics, or Applied Mathematics.  Master’s degree preferred.
  • In addition to #1, must have five (5) years of experience in statistical, quantitative, or geographic analysis, data management or travel demand forecasting which includes project management.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical materials.
  • Excellent analytical and verbal/written communication skills required.
  • Ability to professionally interact with regional or community organizations and other agencies.
  • Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred.
  • Must possess a current valid driver’s license.
All employees are responsible for performing their job safely and in accordance with the safety objectives, goals and program of the organization, ensuring compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Selected candidates are subject to a physical examination/drug test and background check to verify information regarding education, employment, vehicle and criminal history. Relocation is not available for this position.
If you are interested in applying for a position at Metra, please send your cover letter which must include the position title, your resume and salary history to:
E-mail:  jobs@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, or disability, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Metra / 547 W. Jackson Blvd. / Chicago, IL  60661