Launch Operations Principal

Via•San Francisco, CA

1d•$120,000 - $160,000•Remote

About The Position

Via is using technology to transform transportation around the world. From changing a single person’s daily commute to reducing humanity’s collective environmental footprint — we’ve got huge goals. As a Launch Operations Principal, you will sit at the intersection of operational strategy and execution, launching a growing pipeline of new, complex services across markets. For each launch, you will serve as the leader of a transit network transformation; taking full ownership of the technology and operational transition, service performance, partner relationships, and a 30+ frontline team. You will be setting up Via's newest services in high-visibility markets that require building new operational systems from the ground up, not just managing existing ones. The decisions you make here will shape how the market runs for years. This is a unique leadership and operating opportunity for anyone who is eager to lead and launch high-stakes, high-visibility, and high-impact new markets at Via. The role is excellent for a generalist looking for exposure in strategy, operations and product/technology. This role requires a willingness to travel up to 50% of the time. About the Role: Launch & Service Performance Own and manage launch of new Via services, from technology implementation to operational setup Define and manage against KPIs spanning on-time performance, rider satisfaction, safety, and cost efficiency Translate weekly and monthly performance data into decisions People Leadership Lead a 30+ team of field operators and drivers, including hiring, coaching, performance management, and culture setting Build an operation where people feel accountable, supported, and proud of what they're delivering Develop frontline leaders within your team who can grow into expanded roles Partner & Stakeholder Management Own Via's relationship with the transit agency partner, a public entity with its own board, elected officials, and community accountability Represent Via to community stakeholders, local officials, and riders Operational Excellence Drive continuous improvement across vehicle operations, maintenance protocols, and service delivery Identify and execute cost and efficiency improvements that strengthen margin without compromising service Product Development Influence the product roadmap for Via's newest Fixed Route products

Requirements

Minimum of 5+ years of experience with a proven track record in tech operations, startup expansion, or an execution-focused consulting role.
Experience implementing projects and running operations, not just designing strategies
Analytical & adaptable, you can quickly understand different business models and interpret operational data to make logical business decisions
You think fast on your feet and excel at navigating ambiguity.
You have a strong bias for action, when a launch plan encounters real-world friction, you adapt immediately rather than waiting for a playbook.
Clear, effective communicator with experience managing partner relationships, navigating diverse viewpoints, and collaborating with cross-functional teams
Willingness to travel up to 50% to support markets during critical launch phases

Responsibilities

Own and manage launch of new Via services, from technology implementation to operational setup
Define and manage against KPIs spanning on-time performance, rider satisfaction, safety, and cost efficiency
Translate weekly and monthly performance data into decisions
Lead a 30+ team of field operators and drivers, including hiring, coaching, performance management, and culture setting
Build an operation where people feel accountable, supported, and proud of what they're delivering
Develop frontline leaders within your team who can grow into expanded roles
Own Via's relationship with the transit agency partner, a public entity with its own board, elected officials, and community accountability
Represent Via to community stakeholders, local officials, and riders
Drive continuous improvement across vehicle operations, maintenance protocols, and service delivery
Identify and execute cost and efficiency improvements that strengthen margin without compromising service
Influence the product roadmap for Via's newest Fixed Route products