Hearing Officer

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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Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.

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.

Labor Relations is charged with the negotiation and administration of 17 collective bargaining agreements between Metra and its employees represented by 14 unions. These responsibilities include representing Metra in arbitration with respect to minor disputes and the ongoing negotiations meant to reach amicable settlements and thus avoid a major dispute as defined by the Railway Labor Act with each of these unions.

Facilitate, coordinate, and manage the discipline hearing process, including serving as the Hearing Officer and, when assigned, the Reviewing Officer. Independently ensure hearings are fair, impartial, orderly, timely, and conducted in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements, labor relations procedures, and due process requirements. Develop and maintain a complete hearing record that supports informed discipline decisions and any subsequent grievance, arbitration, or adjustment board review.

The primary duties include: Prepare for and conduct discipline hearings. Review charges and hearing notices; confirm contractual timelines, notice, and representation requirements; open and preside over proceedings; maintain order and neutrality; receive testimony and documentary evidence; rule on procedural matters; question witnesses for clarification; permit appropriate examination; and ensure relevant facts are entered into the record. Serve as Reviewing Officer when assigned. Evaluate the hearing record, testimony, exhibits, applicable labor agreement provisions, policies, rules, and discipline standards; make or recommend well-supported determinations; and prepare clear written findings or decision documentation. Administer and maintain the hearing process and record. Coordinate hearing dates, locations, participants, court reporters, and postponements; prepare required notices and correspondence; assemble exhibits; verify transcript completeness; maintain confidential case files; and route the completed record to the appropriate decision or appeal authority. Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment. 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.