DBE Compliance Specialist 1

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.

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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.

The Office of Diversity and Business Enterprise (ODBE) is responsible for the administration of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program in accordance with the mandates and regulations of the FTA and other federal, state, and local government statutes. ODBE ensures managers and staff understand the importance of diversity and ensuring nondiscrimination in the award and administration of Metra contracts.

Reporting to the Director, DBE, the DBE Compliance Specialist 1 is responsible for the coordination and completion of all regulatory compliance documents to ensure they meet local, state, and federal requirements and applicable agency policies and procedures.

The primary duties include: Monitor assigned contracts with DBE and participation to ensure compliance with program and applicable regulations; and track progress toward attaining DBE goal commitments. Assist with desk and compliance audits on contracts; prepare performance documentation and required checklists; may conduct work site visits to verify DBE firms are performing commercially useful functions; and may attend meetings as department representative. Review DBE utilization documentation, DBE subcontracts, and vendor invoices to ensure regulatory compliance requirements are met and all applicable documentation is included and accurate; identify and document noncompliance issues, assist with investigations and contribute to problem resolution. Provide written and verbal guidance on DBE compliance requirements, policies, and regulations to internal and external stakeholders. Keep current on transportation related local, state, and federal rules and regulations; and assist with compiling statistical data for various department reports . 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.

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

1. Bachelor's degree OR in lieu of degree, any combination of education and experience may be substituted for the required degree that equals four (4) years in contract management, regulatory compliance, finance, audit, or procurement.
2. In addition to #1, have two (2) years of experience in contract management, regulatory compliance, or procurement.
3. Familiar with civil rights, affirmative action, and labor laws, business development programs, concepts and practices related to DBE, contract administration, management, and compliance.
4. Working knowledge of research tools and techniques.
5. Familiar with federal regulatory compliance laws (e.g. the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) 49 CFR Part 26).
6. Skilled in the use of Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) and virtual meeting platforms (e.g. WebEx, Teams and Zoom).
7. Good analytical, planning, organizational, and problem solving skills.
8. Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to speak publicly and with the ability to explain regulatory information.
9. Ability to work with sensitive information while maintaining strict confidentiality.
10. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple assignments and deadlines effectively with flexibility and creativity.
11. Ability to interpret, monitor, and apply policies and rules regarding contract compliance.
12. Ability to understand and interpret applicable regulations, contractual obligations, administrative practices, and processes and explain to others.
13. Ability to establish and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
14. Must possess a valid driver's license.
15. Must be able to operate a vehicle.
16. Must be willing to travel within Metra's 6-county region.
17. Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

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.