Principal Engineer - Structural

We are the Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. We plan 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provide regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services. More information about us on our website.

We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Metro Transit is one of the country's largest transit systems, employs more than 3,000 people, and provides ridership through an integrated network of buses, light rail and commuter trains, as well as resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk or bike in the Twin Cities. Metro Transit's Engineering Department is responsible for the development and construction of Metro Transit's public and support facilities. In the public facility area, they plan, design, and construct improvements to the rail and bus network including, for example, bus and rail stations, maintenance facilities, park and rides, and other passenger facilities. Engineering and Facilities has built and maintains over 2 million square feet of office and industrial space.

How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:

A Principal Engineer in Structural will lead multiple transit projects in design and construction that vary in size and complexity; develop or assist in inspections, project budgets and schedules, monitor costs and progress, anticipate potential problem areas, identify and implement measures to keep the projects within budget and on schedule. Candidate's permanent residence must be in Minnesota or Wisconsin. This position is currently based out of our Transfer Road facility in St. Paul. The incumbent will be required to work nights and weekends and will spend a significant amount of time in the field.

• Lead and assist the design and construction of small to large projects from 3 months to 3 years in duration.
• Develop or assist in the development of scope of services and other non-standard provisions of RFPs and consultant contracts.
• Participate in contract negotiations and the evaluation of proposals.
• Assist in or develop project plans, specifications, and estimates to implement assigned capital and operating projects.
• Use independent judgment, perform independently on most assignments, and receive technical guidance on unusual problems.
• Contribute as project engineer and project team member on projects that vary in size and complexity and may manage several projects concurrently
• Coordinate the project with external entities and stakeholders who may be affected by the project or program (Units of Government, the public, private parties and regulatory bodies).
• Monitor the work of consulting engineers and contractors for conformance with contract requirements and administers those contacts.
• Manage design and construction cost issues during construction phase of various projects.
• Receive occasional assistance from principal engineers in the performance of duties.
• Review MNDOT SIMS Inspection Reports.
• Provide engineering services in the planning, design, construction and implementation of capital improvement projects associated with Metro Transit.
• Lead and assist coordination efforts with other Metro Transit departments to identify project goals, project budget, timelines for project completion.
• Knowledge of E-builder program.
• Serve as project manager for RFP or IFB processes on various service and construction contracts working with the Purchasing and Finance Departments.

Bachelor's degree in Engineering in the related area of discipline and five (5) years of experience as an Engineer that includes construction and design.

Required Licensure:

• Must be registered as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Minnesota or a state with reciprocity. PE licenses from other states must be transferred to Minnesota within six months of hire.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

• Experience in the design and construction of one or more of the following:
  • Rehab/Repair of bridge/structures/Rail/Bus Stations
  • Rehab/Repair of parking structures and tunnels
  • Track, Rail Signals/Communications, Traction Power
  • Inspections with FRA and MNDOT SIMS
• Experience in project management and coordination of multiple disciplines.
• Experience and technical knowledge in the preparation of plans and specifications.
• Experience in leading and facilitating meetings with very complex and detailed materials.
• Experience in construction management.
• Experience in scheduling and budgeting.
• Experience building trust and relationships with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures.

• Knowledge of engineering theories, principles and practical applications.
• Knowledge of Metropolitan Council Engineering and contract management policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of Project Management.
• Knowledge in the position's relevant process area and/or technology area.
• Knowledge of practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluation alternative, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting effective staff reports.
• Skilled in engineering theories and principles of design and construction.
• Skilled in managing design and construction for projects.
• Skilled in project management methods/techniques.
• Skilled in Microsoft word, excel, Adobe Pro, E-builder, and Bluebeam.
• Skilled in technical specification procedures, project proposals, cost estimates and bidding procedures.
• Skilled in developing effective project teams, problem solving, scheduling, budgeting, presenting reports and contract administration.
• Skilled at communicating well orally, in writing and interpersonally.
• Skilled in writing of routine reports and correspondence.
• Skilled in speaking effectively before groups of customers or clients.
• Skilled in providing client services to interagency stakeholders, the public and other agencies. Requires tact, courtesy and cooperation in dealings with others where the primary purpose is the exchange of information.
• Skilled in researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting effective staff reports.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio and percent, and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

• Ability to make effective use of technology. Analyze information to effectively identify and define problems, create solutions and make decisions.
• Ability to perform with accuracy and thoroughness; use time productively and maintain priorities despite unexpected circumstances; identify and address important details in the work.
• Ability to work effectively in a team structure; demonstrate commitment to achieving team goals.
• Demonstrate the ability to work with minimal supervision and assistance.
• Ability to maintain a good attendance record, complete work on time, and follow policies and operating procedures.
• Ability to develop and maintain a positive and cooperative working relationship with a diverse workforce.

• We offer the opportunity to make a difference and positively influence the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
• We encourage our employees to develop their skills through on-site training and tuition reimbursement.
• We provide a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a good work/life balance.

Union/Grade: Non-Represented/Grade I

FLSA Status: Exempt

Safety Sensitive: No