Job SummaryThe Program Manager - Testing & Commissioning, is responsible for leading Amtrak's oversight of all testing, commissioning, acceptance, and operational readiness activities for the new Chicago Maintenance Facility, delivered by a third-party developer under a Public-Private Partnership (P3). Serving as Amtrak's primary representative for facility startup and turnover, the Program Manager ensures that all systems, infrastructure, equipment, and operational capabilities are delivered in accordance with contractual requirements, safety standards, and performance objectives.
This position provides strategic leadership and coordination among the developer, contractors, consultants, and Amtrak stakeholders to plan and execute integrated testing, commissioning, and acceptance activities. The Program Manager is responsible for establishing acceptance criteria, monitoring compliance with P3 obligations, managing risks and deficiencies, overseeing documentation and training requirements, and assuring the facility is ready to support safe and reliable operations.
The role works closely with engineering, construction, operations, maintenance, and executive leadership teams to manage the transition from project delivery to operational service. The Program Manager evaluates facility readiness, facilitates milestone approvals, and safeguards Amtrak's interests throughout the commissioning and turnover process to ensure the successful delivery and long-term performance of this critical maintenance asset.
Essential Functions- Lead Amtrak's testing, commissioning, acceptance, and operational readiness program for the Chicago Maintenance Facility, ensuring compliance with contractual, safety, operational, and performance requirements.
- Serve as Amtrak's primary representative with the P3 developer, contractors, consultants, and internal stakeholders, coordinating all commissioning, turnover, and facility acceptance activities.
- Develop and manage testing, commissioning, and transition-to-operations plans; oversee integrated system testing; and monitor progress toward key project milestones and acceptance criteria.
- Direct the identification, tracking, and resolution of commissioning deficiencies, punch-list items, risks, and warranty-related issues to support successful facility startup and long-term operational performance.
- Lead cross-functional readiness efforts, including stakeholder coordination, training, documentation turnover, and executive reporting, to ensure a safe and seamless transition from construction completion to full facility operations.
Minimum Qualifications- Bachelor's Degree required or equivalent combination of training, education and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Plus,
- 7 years of prior experience required
- 9+ years of relevant experience preferred
Preferred Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Architecture, Transportation, or related field
- Demonstrated construction experience in a railroad environment
- Significant experience in construction management of multiple construction projects and / or programs in an active railroad environment.
- Current PMP certification
- Strong process improvement skills
- Familiarity with quality management systems
- Master's degree in engineering, construction, or project management
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Demonstrated knowledge of testing, commissioning, acceptance, and operational readiness processes for large-scale transportation, rail, industrial, or infrastructure facilities.
- Strong program and project management skills, including planning, scheduling, risk management, stakeholder coordination, and oversight of complex, multi-party capital projects.
- Ability to interpret and apply engineering, construction, operational, contractual, and regulatory requirements, including those associated with Public-Private Partnership (P3) project delivery.
- Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to influence decisions and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
- Ability to manage facility turnover activities, evaluate operational readiness, resolve deficiencies and risks, and ensure the successful transition of new assets into safe and reliable service.
Work Environment- Combination of office and field environment.
- Sit at computer to complete assignments, projects, and majority of tasks.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Regular travel to the project site field office is required.
- Occasional travel, as needed.
The salary/hourly range is $113,200.00 - $146,664.00. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, etc. Depending on an employee's assigned worksite or location, Amtrak may consider a geo-pay differential to be applied to the employee's base salary. Amtrak may offer additional incentive and pay programs to recognize and reward our employees, including a short-term incentive bonus based upon factors such as individual and company performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.
Health and WellbeingFinancial and RetirementWork and Family Life SupportHealth, Dental, and Vision Insurance401K with Employer MatchGenerous Paid Time Off Wellness ProgramsRailroad Retirement BenefitsPaid Caregiving Days and Backup CareHealth Savings AccountPublic Service Student Loan ForgivenessFertility and Family Building BenefitsNo-cost Personal Health AdvocateStudent Loan AssistanceAdoption and Surrogacy AssistanceMedical Plan Opt-out CreditTuition and Education ReimbursementPaid Family Leave Life InsuranceRail Pass Privileges Short- and Long-term Disability InsuranceEmployee Assistance Program No-cost Financial Advisor SessionsCommuter and Flexible Spending Accounts
Learn more about our benefits offerings here.
Requisition ID:167238
Work Arrangement:06-Onsite 4/5 Days Click here for more information about work arrangements at Amtrak.
Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%
