Technical Project Manager (Data and AI)

Lever, Inc.; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 92,299,000 - 106,075,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

1099/Independent contractor

On-site Irvine

Job summary

CompassX is seeking a highly technical Project Manager to drive delivery for a cutting-edge enterprise technology initiative in Southern California. You will bridge engineering and business goals, translating complex requirements into actionable tasks and sprint backlogs while leading Agile ceremonies.

We value a 7+ year track record in delivering complex software, enterprise integrations, or data-driven solutions, paired with strong stakeholder management and a consulting mindset.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of delivering complex software, integrations, or data-driven solutions.
• Thrives in fast-paced, client-facing consulting environments.
• Excellent communication to influence both technical teams and senior leaders.
• Deep understanding of SDLC and hands-on agile practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end delivery of a high-visibility, real-time technology platform from inception through deployment.
• Partner with business stakeholders and engineering teams to ensure rapid delivery of complex solutions.
• Translate business requirements into actionable technical tasks, API specs, and sprint backlogs.
• Facilitate Agile ceremonies to ensure predictable delivery cadences.
• Identify and mitigate risks and cross-team dependencies; report progress to leadership.

Skills

Technical delivery

Consulting mindset

Stakeholder management

SDLC & Agile

Strategic problem solving

Cross-functional alignment

Hybrid availability

Job description

CompassX is a boutique business and technology consulting firm. We help Fortune 500 and high-growth clients deliver their most strategic initiatives, from enterprise transformations to digital and data-driven projects. With over 15 years of proven results, we’ve expanded across industries including financial services, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, consumer products, and quick service restaurants.

We are honored to be recognized as a three-time winner of Consulting Magazine’s Best Boutique Firms to Work For, and previously recognized as a “Best Place to Work” in Southern California and one of INC.’s 5000 fastest-growing private companies in the U.S.

We are looking for a highly technical Project Manager to drive delivery for a cutting-edge enterprise technology initiative. You will be at the forefront of a fast-paced, high-visibility project focused on delivering real-time data and advanced capabilities for end-users. Working closely with core business operations and technical teams, you will act as the crucial bridge between engineering execution and strategic business goals.

This is a senior delivery role requiring someone who is comfortable diving into technical details, managing complex dependencies, and driving cross-functional alignment in a dynamic consulting environment.

What You'll Do

• Lead Complex Delivery: Drive the end-to-end execution of a high-visibility, real-time technology platform from inception through deployment.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Partner directly with diverse business stakeholders and engineering teams to manage the rapid delivery of complex technology solutions.

• Technical Bridge: Act as a highly technical PM, interfacing seamlessly with developers to translate complex business requirements into actionable technical tasks, API specifications, and sprint backlogs.

• Agile Orchestration: Facilitate core Agile ceremonies (sprint planning, daily stand-ups, backlog grooming, retrospectives) to ensure predictable delivery cadences.

• Risk & Dependency Management: Proactively identify project roadblocks, manage cross-team dependencies, and implement effective mitigation strategies to keep delivery on track.

• Executive Reporting: Provide clear, transparent progress updates, milestone tracking, and project health metrics to senior leadership and client sponsors without adding unnecessary administrative overhead.

What You'll Bring

• Proven Technical Delivery: Strong track record (7+ years) of delivering complex custom software, enterprise integrations, or data-driven technology solutions.

• Consulting Mindset: Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced, client-facing environment, adapting quickly to new technical landscapes, cultures, and business domains.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional communication skills with the proven ability to build trust and influence both highly technical engineering teams and senior business leaders.

• SDLC & Agile Expertise: Deep understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and practical experience actively managing sprint boards and Agile methodologies.

• Strategic Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills with the ability to "talk code" with developers while maintaining a focus on the broader business objectives and product vision.

• Hybrid Availability: Must be local to Orange County/Southern California and able to work on-site 2-3 days per week at the client site in Irvine.

• Contract Readiness: Available immediately for an estimated 6-month consulting engagement (1099/Independent Contractor preferred).

$140,000 - $160,000 a year

The posted compensation range is provided as an annualized equivalent for pay transparency purposes. Final compensation will be structured as an hourly rate or other contract-based arrangement and will be determined based on factors including experience, skills, qualifications, scope of work, engagement type, market conditions, and business needs.

This role will most likely be as a 1099/Independent Contractor

Our consultants say CompassX is a place where they can truly find their own path. As part of a smaller firm, they see the impact of their work, have an identity, and know their voice matters. They value the freedom to take the reins of their careers, shape their client work, and maintain a direct line to leadership.

With CompassX’s focus on serving local Southern California clients, consultants not only build lasting relationships but also see the results of their work in the communities where they live.

At CompassX, you won’t just follow a path - you’ll create one.