Operational Readiness Project Manager

Base pay range $140,000.00/yr - $175,000.00/yr CAI Overview CAI is a 100% employee‑owned professional services company established in 1996 that has grown to over 700 people worldwide. We provide program and project management, commissioning, qualification, validation, start‑up, and other consulting services associated with operational readiness and operational excellence to FDA‑regulated and other mission‑critical industries. We put our clients’ interests first, we do not stop until it is right, and we will do whatever it takes to get there. Foundational Principles We act with integrity We serve each other We serve society We work for our future We embrace a Team Before Self mindset, demonstrate Respect for Others , and maintain a Can‑Do Attitude —our three core values. Position Overview The Operational Readiness Project Manager (ORPM) serves as a strategic leader bridging the gap between mechanical completion and sustained operational performance. The ORPM designs and leads holistic Operational Readiness programs using CAI’s six‑pillar Readiness Framework. This role ensures project teams achieve right‑first‑time metrics, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and deliver world‑class performance from day one. Key Responsibilities Project & Program Leadership Lead project teams to achieve Operational Readiness (OR) objectives. Manage readiness‑to‑operations lifecycle for 1–3 client engagements simultaneously. Drive on‑time, on‑scope delivery of readiness programs. Pillar Integration & Execution Serve as the primary consultant for OR campaigns integrating with Quality, Process, and Workforce streams. Apply OE principles to pre‑Day One activities (e.g., visual management, accountability, problem‑solving). Client Advisory Act as a trusted advisor to executive stakeholders (VPs, Site Heads, etc.). Guide decision‑making with a risk‑based, speed‑to‑value mindset. People Development Lead and coach cross‑functional teams including CQV, Quality, and external contractors. Cultivate a culture of feedback and growth. Thought Leadership Contribute to CAI's brand via white papers, conference presentations, and client tools. Skills & Characteristics Required Consulting & Facilitation – Align project stakeholders with a clear vision and measurable goals. Expert‑level guidance for site and department leadership. Project Execution – Manage scheduling, resource loading, controls, and closeout; execute comprehensive project planning and delivery. Continuous Improvement – Drive site‑wide transformation using Lean, Six Sigma, or TPM methodologies. Qualifications and Experience BS or MS in a relevant science or engineering field (or equivalent). 3+ years as a program/project manager on life science projects ($1MM+). 8+ years in GMP‑regulated operations with 5+ years leading readiness/start‑up/OE transformations. (Black Belt or equivalent preferred.) Proven multi‑site or multi‑client portfolio experience. Deep understanding of quality systems, tech transfer, equipment qualification, and analytics. Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills. Proficient in project management software tools. Other Requirements Excellent written and verbal English communication. Able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship now or in the future. Domestic and international travel may be required. Willing to work overtime when necessary. PMI PMP or PgMP certification a plus. Critical Competencies Influence Strategy Evaluates and pursues initiatives, opportunities, and priorities based on fit with organization strategies. Identifies innovative solutions with strategic impact, balancing short and long‑term concerns. Identifies emerging customer and market needs. Satisfy the Customer Identifies and anticipates customer requirements, expectations, and needs. Develops solutions that exceed customer expectations and shares feedback. Follows up to resolve issues and maintain satisfaction and loyalty. Continually seeks ways to improve service, remove barriers, and provide solutions. Plan for Success Translates business/function strategies into aligned plans and objectives; integrates across groups. Obtains and allocates resources needed to accomplish goals. Anticipates risk and builds effective contingency plans. Pursue Execution Prioritizes and balances time, actions, resources, and initiatives to achieve critical goals. Holds self and others accountable for outcomes. Anticipates obstacles and takes actions to accelerate work or improve quality. Tailor Communication Communicates information clearly, concisely, and professionally. Tailors communication style and content to audience effectively. Writes technical concepts clearly and thoroughly for any audience. Build Partnerships Cultivates a network of people across disciplines and functions. Builds collaboration by removing barriers and breaking down silos. Involves others appropriately in decisions and plans. Maintains positive relationships despite challenges. Influence Others Develops and articulates compelling rationale for positions. Builds broad support among key decision makers and influencers. Explains ideas and proposals to gain support. Encourages others to find new solutions that improve outcomes. Develop Self and Others Continuously develops interpersonal skills for effective internal and external relationships. Models company values and acts with integrity. Seeks opportunities to develop breakthrough ideas and initiatives. CAI Benefits Comprehensive Health Insurance coverage 24 days of Paid Time Off ESOP/401K – 15% Company Contribution (US Only) Company‑paid Life Insurance Company‑paid Long‑Term Disability We are an equal opportunity employer; we are proud to employ veterans and promote diversity and inclusion in our workplace. Diversity is a strength for our global company. We pledge that CAI will be operated in a way that is fair and equitable to all – our employees, our customers, and the broader society. This job description is not all inclusive and you may be asked to do other duties. CAI will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Chance Act (FCA) / Fair Chance Ordinance (FCO). We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us. Average base salary range – not including benefits, and potential overtime and/or Cost of Living Adjustment. Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at CAI by 2x. 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