Operational Readiness Project Manager

CAI • Raleigh, NC

1d • $140,000 - $175,000

About The Position

CAI Overview: Are You Ready? CAI is a 100% employee-owned professional services company established in 1996 that has grown to over 700 people worldwide. We provide program and project management, commissioning, qualification, validation, start-up, and other consulting services associated with operational readiness and operational excellence to FDA-regulated and other mission-critical industries. We put our clients’ interests first, we do not stop until it is right, and we will do whatever it takes to get there. At CAI, we are committed to living our Foundational Principles: We act with integrity We serve each other We serve society We work for our future We believe that with employee ownership, one person’s success is everyone’s success. We embrace a Team Before Self mindset, demonstrate Respect for Others , and maintain a Can-Do Attitude —our three core values. Position Overview: The Operational Readiness Project Manager (ORPM) serves as a strategic leader bridging the gap between mechanical completion and sustained operational performance. The ORPM designs and leads holistic Operational Readiness programs using CAI’s six-pillar Readiness Framework. This role ensures project teams achieve right-first-time metrics, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and deliver world-class performance from day one.

Requirements

• BS or MS in a relevant science or engineering field (or equivalent).
• 3+ years as a program/project manager on life science projects ($1MM+), or
• 8+ years in GMP-regulated operations with 5+ years leading readiness/start-up/OE transformations. (Black Belt or equivalent preferred.)
• Proven multi-site or multi-client portfolio experience.
• Deep understanding of quality systems, tech transfer, equipment qualification, and analytics.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficient in project management software tools.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication.
• Able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship now or in the future.
• Domestic and international travel may be required.
• Willing to work overtime when necessary.

Nice To Haves

• PMI PMP or PgMP certification a plus.

Responsibilities

• Project & Program Leadership - Lead project teams to achieve Operational Readiness (OR) objectives.
• Manage readiness-to-operations lifecycle for 1–3 client engagements simultaneously.
• Drive on-time, on-scope delivery of readiness programs.
• Pillar Integration & Execution - Serve as the primary consultant for OR campaigns integrating with Quality, Process, and Workforce streams.
• Apply OE principles to pre-Day One activities (e.g., visual management, accountability, problem-solving).
• Client Advisory - Act as a trusted advisor to executive stakeholders (VPs, Site Heads, etc.).
• Guide decision-making with a risk-based, speed-to-value mindset.
• People Development - Lead and coach cross-functional teams including CQV, Quality, and external contractors.
• Cultivate a culture of feedback and growth.
• Thought Leadership -Contribute to CAI's brand via white papers, conference presentations, and client tools.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Insurance coverage
• 24 days of Paid Time Off
• ESOP/401K - 15% Company Contribution (US Only)
• Company paid Life Insurance
• Company paid Long Term Disability

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager