Senior Project Manager

VIA Rail; Montreal; Hybrid; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A transportation services company in Montreal seeks a Project Manager to lead fleet modernization projects. The role demands extensive project management experience in rail or heavy equipment, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to collaboration. The ideal candidate will have a university degree in engineering and experience in a manufacturing environment. This position offers a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and the chance to contribute to sustainable transportation efforts.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Hybrid remote work options

Health and wellness benefits

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• 7-10 years project management experience in rail or heavy equipment industries.
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment (minimum 5 years).
• PMP certification is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Manage full project lifecycle, including scope, budgets, timelines, and risks.
• Define acceptance criteria and manage quality processes.
• Ensure governance compliance in procurement and contractual decisions.

Skills

Project planning

Leadership

Problem-solving

Strategic decision-making

Team collaboration

Education

University degree in engineering

Tools

SharePoint

Project Online

Job description

Description

Did you know that VIA Rail is carrying out ambitious projects to modernize its services and infrastructure? From our new ultramodern train fleet to ongoing improvements in our infrastructure and reservation system, we’re building the future of transportation in Canada. Working for VIA Rail means being part of a collective effort in sustainable mobility.

The project manager will report directly to the Senior Manager, Projects, Rolling Stock, and will be part of a dynamic team of project managers responsible for overseeing VIA Rail's rolling stock modernization projects, including locomotives and passenger cars, across various workshops.

This role requires an active presence in the railway workshop, demonstrating strong team spirit. A practical, field-based approach is essential, as the candidate will spend time directly with workshop teams, workers, and support staff.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about mechanics and workshop work, with strong project planning, coordination, leadership, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making skills throughout the project lifecycle.

Joining VIA Rail offers the opportunity to play a central role in transforming passenger rail in Canada, working with talented, diverse professionals in a growth-oriented environment.

The Project Manager will manage fleet modernization projects valued from thousands to tens of millions of dollars. They will oversee multidisciplinary teams across engineering, production, planning, procurement, logistics, quality, and inventory management.

As team leader, they will train and guide their team through all project phases, ensuring adherence to schedules and budgets. They will develop detailed project plans, monitor progress, and produce monthly reports for stakeholders and management.

Ultimately, the Project Manager is responsible for delivering a safe, high-quality final product that meets all specifications and expectations.

The role requires strong leadership, serving as a role model through professionalism, charisma, and effective communication. They will guide team members toward achieving goals and fostering a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing full project lifecycle, mobilizing resources, and establishing project scope, budgets, timelines, risks, and issues;
• Defining acceptance criteria and managing quality processes;
• Ensuring robust governance, decision-making, and documentation;
• Organizing steering committee meetings, preparing reports, and maintaining project documentation;
• Overseeing project transfer to operations and supporting business case development;
• Implementing communication and change management plans.

Following the PMO methodology, the role also involves:

• Ensuring governance compliance in procurement and contractual decisions;
• Continuously seeking process improvements to deliver projects on time and within budget.

Additional responsibilities for continuous improvement:

• Contributing ideas for process optimization;
• Participating in work methodology enhancements;
• Implementing and evaluating improvements;
• Sharing best practices and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Travel availability and a requirement to work in the office three days a week are also expected.

Requirements:

• University degree in engineering (preferably industrial or mechanical), administration, or related fields;
• 7-10 years project management experience in rail or heavy equipment industries;
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment (minimum 5 years);
• Practical knowledge of project management tools (e.g., SharePoint, EPM 2010, Project Online);
• PMP certification (asset);
• Experience in a matrix management environment;
• Bilingual in English and French (spoken and written).

Competencies:

• Leadership and mentorship skills;
• Negotiation and influence skills;
• Planning, organization, and communication skills;
• Rigorous, quality-focused, team-oriented;
• Ability to supervise, coach, and develop staff;
• Excellent interpersonal skills;
• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines;
• Experience in a matrix management context;
• Problem-solving skills and client focus;
• Hands-on workshop experience;
• Commitment to ongoing training and development;
• Basic financial knowledge for business case support.

  VIA Rail is committed to diversity and inclusion, removing barriers to employment, and providing an accessible environment. If accommodations are needed during the recruitment process, please let us know. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

  Why choose VIA Rail?

  • Competitive salary and benefits;
  • Hybrid remote work options;
  • Supportive work environment and career growth opportunities;
  • Health and wellness benefits, including telemedicine;
  • Contributing to sustainable transportation in Canada;
  • Recognition as a trusted Canadian employer.

  Join our team of 3,000 employees helping Canadians travel safely, sustainably, and accessibly!