Operational Readiness Project Manager

Operational Readiness Project Manager

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 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.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project & Program Leadership

• Lead project teams to achieve Operational Readiness (OR) objectives.
• Manage readiness-to-operations lifecycle for 13 client engagements simultaneously.
• Drive on-time, on-scope delivery of readiness programs.

2. Pillar Integration & Execution

3. Client Advisory

4. People Development

5. Thought Leadership

Skills & Characteristics Required

Consulting & Facilitation

Project Execution

Continuous Improvement

Qualifications and Experience

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.

Other Requirements

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.

PMI PMP or PgMP certification a plus.

Critical Competencies

Influence Strategy

Satisfy the Customer

Plan for Success

Pursue Execution

Tailor Communication

Build Partnerships

Influence Others

Develop Self and Others

$140,000 - $175,000 a year

Average base salary range - not including benefits, and potential overtime and / or Cost of Living Adjustment.

CAI Benefits :

We are an equal opportunity employer; we are proud to employ veterans and promote diversity and inclusion in our workplace. Diversity is a strength for our global company. We pledge that CAI will be operated in a way that is fair and equitable to all our employees, our customers, and the broader society.

This job description is not all inclusive and you may be asked to do other duties. CAI will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Chance Act (FCA) / Fair Chance Ordinance (FCO).