Program Mgr - Testing & Commissioning - 90415077 - Chicago

Amtrak•Chicago, IL

13d•$113,200 - $146,664•Onsite

About The Position

The 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.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree required or equivalent combination of training, education and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
7 years of prior experience required

Nice To Haves

9+ years of relevant experience preferred
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

Responsibilities

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.