Senior Permitting & Utility Coordinator

Metra Commuter Rail; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 81,000 - 121,000; Full time

Job summary

Metra is seeking a Permit and Utility Coordinator to plan, coordinate, and oversee permitting and underground utility coordination for capital construction projects in the Chicago area.

Reporting to the Director Capital Delivery Construction, you will supervise consultants, review applications, standardize workflows, and ensure compliance with municipal regulations. The role requires strong communication, problem-solving, and travel within Metra’s six-county region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, construction management, or related field, or four years equivalent experience.
• Minimum of four years of engineering, architectural or permitting/utility coordination experience.
• Knowledge of municipal permitting processes in large municipalities like Chicago.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project, Power BI).
• Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and travel within Metra’s 6-county region.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate permitting and utility coordination across capital projects.
• Act as liaison between utility companies, design teams, and staff.
• Review applications for accuracy and monitor permit progress.
• Standardize permitting workflows and tracking systems.
• Coordinate consultants and contractors; supervise staff when applicable.

Skills

Microsoft 365

Regulatory coordination

Project management

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Documentation

Travel willingness

Vehicle operation

Physical capability

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

Power BI

Microsoft Project

Job description

Metra is seeking a Permit and Utility Coordinator to plan, coordinate, and oversee permitting and underground utility coordination for capital construction projects in the Chicago area.

Reporting to the Director Capital Delivery Construction, you will supervise consultants, review applications, standardize workflows, and ensure compliance with municipal regulations. The role requires strong communication, problem-solving, and travel within Metra’s six-county region.