Program Manager, Light Rail Vehicles

Job Title Program Manager, Light Rail Vehicles Location: El Segundo, CA (Onsite) FLSA: Exempt, Full-Time The Opportunity A light rail vehicle manufacturer is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Program Manager to lead complex light rail vehicle programs from inception through successful delivery. As a Program Manager, you will be the central point of contact and the driving force behind ensuring program objectives are met on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This role requires exceptional leadership, communication, and technical expertise to navigate cross-functional teams, manage stakeholder expectations, and serve as the primary interface with customers. Responsibilities Program Lifecycle Management: Oversee all aspects of light rail vehicle programs, including initiation, planning, design, manufacturing, testing, delivery, and close-out. Cross-Functional Leadership: Act as a liaison and facilitator between engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, commercial, and other internal departments. Effectively manage collaboration and resolve potential conflicts to align toward program goals. Customer Relationship Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, building strong relationships, understanding their needs, managing expectations, and providing regular program updates. Stakeholder Management: Communicate with and manage expectations of all program stakeholders, both internal and external. Budget and Schedule Management: Develop, monitor, and control program budgets and schedules. Identify and mitigate potential risks and implement corrective actions as needed. Risk and Opportunity Management: Proactively identify, assess, and manage program risks and opportunities. Develop and implement mitigation plans and strategies to maximize success. Technical Oversight: Leverage engineering background to understand technical requirements, review designs, and ensure technical compliance throughout the program lifecycle. Reporting and Documentation: Prepare and present regular program status reports to internal leadership and external customers. Maintain accurate and comprehensive program documentation. Quality Assurance: Ensure adherence to quality standards and processes throughout the program, working closely with the quality department. Contract Management: Understand and ensure compliance with contract requirements. Manage changes and claims as necessary. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Computer Science, or related field) is required. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in the rolling stock industry, with a strong focus on light rail vehicles. Proven track record of successfully managing complex, multi-million dollar programs from initiation to completion. Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams in a matrix environment. Excellent communication, interpersonal, negotiation, and presentation skills. Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, quality systems, and supply chain management within the rail industry. Experience in customer-facing roles and the ability to build and maintain strong client relationships. Proficiency in project management software and tools. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding environment. Must be able to work on-site 5 days a week in our El Segundo, CA facility and ability to commute to multiple locations as needed. Preferred Qualifications Professional Engineering (PE) license. Experience with international rail standards and regulations. Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles. The base pay range listed reflects what we reasonably expect to offer for this role. Actual pay may vary based on location, experience, and performance. Depending on the position, benefits may include medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement and savings plans; paid holidays and time off; supplemental insurance; and additional wellness or incentive programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr Staffmark Group