Executive Leader, Rail Operations & Programs (LOSSAN Corridor)

Octa+ Energie; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 221,000 - 304,000; Full time

Job summary

OCTA is seeking a Deputy Managing Director – Operations to lead the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency’s operations, program delivery, and service readiness, focusing on Pacific Surfliner performance and customer experience.

The role requires eight+ years of senior management experience, a business or management degree, strong executive communication, and ability to coordinate across agencies, railroads, regulators, and internal teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, management, or related field.
• Minimum of eight years of senior management experience, including four years managing staff.
• Experience in transportation, public agency administration, or related operations.
• Ability to lead complex operational and program implementation initiatives.
• Strong understanding of service delivery, operational performance, and cross-functional coordination.
• Executive-level communication, presentation, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to translate Board direction into effective operational strategies.
• Advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational and program delivery activities supporting Pacific Surfliner service and the LOSSAN Rail Corridor.
• Oversee service implementation, operational readiness, performance monitoring, and integrated service delivery.
• Coordinate operational activities across Operations, Capital Programs, Planning, Finance, Marketing, and passenger-focused initiatives.
• Lead coordination related to service modifications, disruptions, capital project impacts, and corridor improvements.
• Partner with host railroads, operators, member agencies, regulators, and other stakeholders.
• Evaluate operational performance, service impacts, implementation risks, and customer experience considerations.
• Advance corridor resiliency, operational integration, and future rail mobility initiatives.
• Prepare and present operational updates and recommendations to executive leadership, stakeholders, and the Board.
• Represent the Agency in regional, statewide, and national forums; lead, coach, and develop staff.
• Serve as a member of LOSSAN’s executive leadership team and act as backup to the Managing Director.

Skills

Executive-level communication

Presentation

Decision-making

Problem-solving

Cross-functional coordination

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or management

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

OCTA is seeking a Deputy Managing Director – Operations to lead the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency’s operations, program delivery, and service readiness, focusing on Pacific Surfliner performance and customer experience.

The role requires eight+ years of senior management experience, a business or management degree, strong executive communication, and ability to coordinate across agencies, railroads, regulators, and internal teams.