Procurement Contract Specialist I

Metra Commuter Rail; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 54,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

Metra Commuter Rail is seeking a Procurement Officer to assist with reviewing and preparing low risk contracts, specifications, and solicitations for goods and services.

You will gather market data, support negotiations, and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations while coordinating with internal stakeholders and vendors. This role emphasizes ethical procurement and timely Deliverables.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business/Public Administration or related field, or four (4) years of relevant procurement experience.
• Knowledge of contracting and procurement principles, practices, and procedures.
• Familiar with laws regulating contract and procurement activities to ensure compliance.
• Proficient with Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and document tracking.
• Familiar with ERP systems and procurement software.
• Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good organization and analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and work independently or in a team.
• Ability to analyze data, evaluate proposals, and identify risks and issues.
• Commitment to procurement process integrity and high ethical standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the review and preparation of simple low risk contracts, specifications, and solicitation documents.
• Gather information on market conditions, prices, and vendor sources to support procurement decisions.
• Assist with contracting processes to recommend, negotiate, and approve specs, scopes of work, pricing, and contract terms.
• Provide contract administration support; monitor performance, track progress, and project schedules.
• Communicate with internal stakeholders, vendors, and other parties to support procurement processes.
• Promote safe work practices and maintain a safe work environment.
• Perform other related duties to meet organizational needs.

Skills

Contracting principles

Procurement laws

Microsoft 365

ERP systems

Communication skills

Organization & analytics

Prioritization & multitasking

Ethical standards

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Public Admin / Supply Chain / Materials Management / Industrial Distribution

Tools

Microsoft 365

ERP systems

Job description

Metra Commuter Rail is seeking a Procurement Officer to assist with reviewing and preparing low risk contracts, specifications, and solicitations for goods and services.

You will gather market data, support negotiations, and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations while coordinating with internal stakeholders and vendors. This role emphasizes ethical procurement and timely Deliverables.