Principal, Validation Ops & AI Transformation

Wabtec; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 105,000 - 149,000; Full time

Job summary

Wabtec seeks a Principal, Validation Operations and Strategic Initiatives to drive operational excellence through data-driven decisions and cross-functional leadership. You will shape KPI frameworks, lead AI and automation roadmaps, and oversee CAPA processes to improve quality and delivery performance.

With a bachelor’s in a technical field and 7+ years of leadership experience, you will influence teams, optimize resources, and implement digital transformations across validation programs,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a technical discipline as listed.
• 7+ years of leadership experience in engineering operations, product verification/validation, quality, or related fields.
• Proven track record of delivering technical improvements and efficiency gains.
• Strong project management and organizational skills in fast-paced environments.
• Analytical, data-driven approach to strategic and operational decisions.
• Ability to influence teams and drive consensus across functions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for executive-level stakeholders.
• Deep knowledge of modern engineering methodologies, processes, and tools.
• Experience leading change, digital transformation, or automation initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage operational metrics, KPIs, and dashboards for visibility into quality, productivity, and schedule performance.
• Provide timely, accurate performance insights to leadership to inform decisions.
• Lead strategy, roadmap, and implementation of AI, automation, and digital transformation across Product Verification.
• Use data analytics to identify trends and drive continuous improvement in efficiency and scalability.
• Evaluate emerging technologies to boost productivity and reduce manual effort.
• Drive standardized workflows, governance, and performance standards across the team.
• Facilitate CAPA processes with root-cause analysis and timely closures.
• Collaborate with functional leaders on resource allocation and capacity planning.
• Deliver data-driven analyses to support short- and long-term objectives.
• Represent Product Verification in governance forums and leadership updates.
• Foster accountability, collaboration, and an innovative culture aligned with company values.

Skills

Leadership

Data analytics

Project management

Communication skills

Engineering processes

Digital transformation

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer science, data analytics, business administration, operations management, or related

Job description

Wabtec seeks a Principal, Validation Operations and Strategic Initiatives to drive operational excellence through data-driven decisions and cross-functional leadership. You will shape KPI frameworks, lead AI and automation roadmaps, and oversee CAPA processes to improve quality and delivery performance.

With a bachelor’s in a technical field and 7+ years of leadership experience, you will influence teams, optimize resources, and implement digital transformations across validation programs,