Manager of Procurement

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

$112K — $159K *
Business Services
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of procurement experience, ideally in a public sector or transit environment
  • At least 3 years of leadership experience managing teams and complex procurement activities
  • Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local procurement regulations (FTA, CPUC, etc.)
  • Experience overseeing contracts, audits, and compliance-driven environments
  • Collaborative leader capable of cross-departmental influence and results-driven management

Responsibilities

  • Lead and develop a team of 12, including two Assistant Managers and two Senior Procurement Specialists
  • Oversee a complex procurement portfolio with 350+ active contracts and 180+ capital projects
  • Ensure procurement activities are executed on time and in compliance with regulations
  • Partner with the Director of Supply Chain to implement the strategic plan
  • Guide procurement strategies aligned with organizational priorities
  • Manage vendor selection, performance, and issue resolution
  • Ensure audit readiness and mitigate risk across procurement processes

Benefits

  • Defined benefit pension (CalPERS), Social Security, and optional 457(b)/401(a) plans
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage with up to 90% of medical premiums covered
  • 18 days of PTO to start plus 13 paid holidays
  • Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • Free transit passes, wellness reimbursements, and tuition assistance up to $5,000/year
Full Job Description
Procurement at MTS is more than contracts-it's a critical function that enables transit operations across the region.

We're looking for a Manager of Procurement who can lead a high-performing team, navigate complex public procurement requirements, and partner across the organization to deliver strategic, compliant, and efficient outcomes.

What You'll Do
This is a highly visible leadership role with significant organizational impact. You'll:
  • Lead and develop a team of 12, including two Assistant Managers and two Senior Procurement Specialists
  • Oversee a complex procurement portfolio, including 350+ active contracts and 180+ capital projects with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding exposure, supporting significant annual capital and operational spend across the agency
  • Own the delivery of procurement activities, ensuring contracts and projects are executed on time and in compliance with regulatory requirements
  • Partner closely with the Director of Supply Chain to shape and implement the department's strategic plan
  • Serve as a key partner to departments, guiding procurement strategies and ensuring alignment with organizational priorities
  • Manage vendor selection, performance, and issue resolution
  • Coordinate Board agenda submissions, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with Board standards
  • Monitor departmental budgets and support annual planning and forecasting
  • Ensure audit readiness and mitigate risk across procurement processes, contracts, and vendor performance

What We're Looking For
  • 7+ years of procurement experience, ideally in a public sector or transit environment
  • At least 3 years of leadership experience managing teams and complex procurement activities
  • Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local procurement regulations (FTA, CPUC, etc.)
  • Experience overseeing contracts, audits, and compliance-driven environments
  • A collaborative leader who can influence across departments and drive results

Compensation

Salary Grade 13*: $112,095 - $159,175 annually
*Final offers are based on experience, internal equity, and market factors.

Benefits & Total Rewards
At MTS, our benefits go beyond salary-supporting your financial security, health, and work/life balance:
  • Pension + Retirement: Defined benefit pension (CalPERS), Social Security, and optional 457(b)/401(a) plans
  • Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision with MTS covering up to 90% of medical premiums
  • Time Off: 18 days of PTO to start + 13 paid holidays
  • Insurance: Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability coverage
  • Perks: Free transit passes, wellness reimbursements, and tuition assistance (up to $5,000/year)
  • & much, much more!

Application Deadline: Position will remain open until filled.

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