CBTC Program Manager

Jacobs; Burnaby; On-site; CAD 196,000 - 297,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a highly experienced CBTC Program Manager to lead the delivery of a new Communications-Based Train Control program for a major transit agency client. The role requires significant expertise in integrating new technology within existing systems. The ideal candidate will have extensive program management experience, particularly with CBTC, and will excel in leading diverse project teams. Competitive salary range is offered depending on skills and experience.

Qualifications

• 15 years of progressive experience in project or program management within the railway or transportation industry.
• 10 plus years of direct experience with CBTC systems, especially in brownfield implementation.
• Proven track record of managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects on schedule and within budget.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end CBTC brownfield implementation.
• Serve as the primary point of contact to the transit agency client.
• Manage a multidisciplinary project team and oversee contractor work.

Skills

Program management

CBTC systems

Leadership

Communication

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Project management software

Job description

Overview

Join to apply for the CBTC Program Manager role at Jacobs.

This range is provided by Jacobs. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range
196,300.00 / daily - $296,980.00 / daily

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated CBTC Program Manager to lead the successful delivery of a new Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) program for a major transit agency client. This is a brownfield project, requiring significant expertise in integrating new technology within an existing, operational transit system. The Program Manager will be responsible for the overall planning, execution, and closeout of the program, ensuring it meets technical specifications, schedule, budget, and stakeholder expectations.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive program management leadership for the end-to-end CBTC brownfield implementation, from strategy, specification development, contractor selection, detailed design through testing, commissioning, and revenue service cutover.
• Serve as the primary point of contact to the transit agency client, building and maintaining strong relationships with all levels of their organization, including operations, maintenance, engineering, and executive leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to interact with clients, establish and maintain relationships, and articulate complex concepts effectively.
• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary project team, including engineers, technical specialists, schedulers, cost estimators, and administrative staff.
• Develop and maintain the overall program management plan, including scope, schedule, budget, risk management, communication plan, and quality management plan.
• Oversee the development and review of technical specifications, design documents, test procedures, and commissioning plans.
• Manage and coordinate the activities of multiple contractors and vendors involved in the program, ensuring their work aligns with the overall program objectives and quality standards.
• Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate program risks and issues, developing contingency plans as needed.
• Implement and manage a robust change management process to control scope creep and ensure all changes are properly documented, evaluated, and approved.
• Monitor program progress against the baseline schedule and budget, preparing regular status reports and presentations for both the client and internal stakeholders.
• Facilitate effective communication and coordination among all project stakeholders, including the client, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal teams.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, security, and regulatory requirements throughout the program lifecycle.
• Oversee the testing and commissioning activities, ensuring the integrated CBTC system meets all performance and safety requirements.
• Manage the transition to revenue service, including operational readiness planning, training, and post-cutover support.
• Champion a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration within the project team and with all stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Systems, or related field preferred) or a related-technical discipline.
• 15 years of progressive experience in project or program management within the railway or transportation industry.
• 10 plus years of direct experience with CBTC systems, including experience on brownfield implementation projects within operating transit environments.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects on schedule and within budget.
• Strong understanding of transit operations, maintenance practices, and safety critical systems.
• Experience managing large contracts and overseeing the work of multiple contractors and vendors.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations.
• PMP certification or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Open to travel and relocation.

Salary and Travel

Salary Range
The base salary range for this position is $196,300.00 to $296,980.00. This range reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across British Columbia, Canada locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.