Principal, Validation Operations and Strategic Initiatives

Wabtec•Cedar Rapids, IA

10d•$104,800 - $149,300•Onsite

About The Position

As the Principal, Validation Operations and Strategic Initiatives, you will drive operational excellence through data-driven decision-making, process optimization, resource management, and continuous improvement. You will establish and manage key performance indicators (KPIs), lead AI and automation transformation roadmaps, facilitate Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) processes, and oversee resource demand and capacity planning. Reporting to the Sr. Director, Product Verification, you will provide timely, actionable insights that support strategic decisions and improve quality, productivity, scalability, and schedule performance. Your leadership will help create a more predictable, efficient, and innovative verification and validation organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data analytics, business administration, operations management, or a related technical discipline.
Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience in engineering operations, product verification and validation, quality, program management, engineering process improvement, or a related technical environment.
Proven record of delivering technical improvements, efficiency gains, and impactful engineering contributions.
Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including experience using data to influence strategic and operational decisions.
Ability to influence teams, guide technical decision-making, and build consensus across functions.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex topics clearly to customers and executive-level stakeholders.
Deep knowledge of modern engineering methodologies, processes, and toolsets.
Experience leading change, continuous improvement, digital transformation, or automation initiatives in a technical organization.

Responsibilities

Develop and manage operational metrics, KPIs, and dashboards that provide visibility into organizational effectiveness, quality, productivity, schedule performance, and resource utilization.
Provide timely, accurate, and actionable performance insights to leadership to support strategic decision-making.
Lead the strategy, roadmap, scheduling, coordination, and implementation of AI, automation, and digital transformation initiatives across Product Verification.
Use data analytics to identify trends and drive continuous improvement in efficiency, quality, scalability, and predictability.
Evaluate and deploy emerging technologies that enhance productivity, reduce manual effort, and accelerate validation activities.
Drive process optimization through standardized workflows, operating procedures, governance frameworks, and performance standards.
Facilitate and manage CAPA processes, including effective root cause analysis, timely closure, and prevention of recurring issues.
Partner with functional leaders to optimize resource allocation, capacity planning, and prioritization of program commitments.
Deliver data-driven analyses and recommendations that support short-term objectives and long-term strategies for delivery, quality, and operational efficiency.
Support the development and execution of organizational strategies aligned with business objectives and customer expectations.
Represent Product Verification in cross-functional reviews, governance forums, and leadership updates.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and innovation consistent with Wabtec’s Vision, Mission, Values, and Behaviors.