Autonomous Vehicle Field Ops Project Manager

Applus+ IDIADA; Corona (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

APPLUS IDIADA is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead a large-scale autonomous vehicle testing program across multiple U.S. locations.

You will oversee field test activities, manage vehicle fleets, plan routes, ensure safety and quality, and maintain strong client relationships. The role requires 7+ years in project management (5+ in field operations), expertise in ADAS or autonomous testing, and a willingness to travel up to 30–40%.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of project management experience, preferably in automotive, technology, or field operations environments.
• At least 5 years of experience in field operations management, public road durability testing or automotive testing programs (preferred).
• Demonstrated experience with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) or autonomous vehicle testing projects.
• Proven track record managing multi-site operations with distributed teams across multiple geographic locations.
• Strong budget management and financial oversight experience, including P&L responsibility (preferred).
• Experience managing large teams (20+ people) with diverse skill sets and responsibilities.
• Valid US driver's license required; willingness to travel across the U.S. up to 30-40% of the time.
• Experience working with international teams and clients is highly desirable but not required.

Responsibilities

• Lead a large-scale autonomous vehicle testing program across multiple locations in the United States.
• Oversee field operational test (FOT) activities involving a substantial fleet of test vehicles with advanced sensor systems for data collection.
• Manage all aspects of multi-site operations: team coordination, vehicle fleet management, route planning, safety compliance, and client relationship management.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for client communications, ensuring deliverables meet time and budget targets with high safety and quality standards.
• Identify future business growth opportunities with support from international teams.

Skills

Project management

Field operations

ADAS / autonomous testing

Leadership

Budget management

Multi-site operations

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Master's degree (preferred)

PMP certification (desirable)

Job description

APPLUS IDIADA is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead a large-scale autonomous vehicle testing program across multiple U.S. locations.

You will oversee field test activities, manage vehicle fleets, plan routes, ensure safety and quality, and maintain strong client relationships. The role requires 7+ years in project management (5+ in field operations), expertise in ADAS or autonomous testing, and a willingness to travel up to 30–40%.