Project Manager - Vehicle Durability / Field Operational Test

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead a large-scale autonomous vehicle testing program across multiple locations in the United States. This role will oversee comprehensive field operational test (FOT) activities involving a substantial fleet of test vehicles equipped with advanced sensor systems for data collection.

• Manage all aspects of multi-site operations, including team coordination, vehicle fleet management, route planning, safety compliance, and client relationship management.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for client communications, ensuring project deliverables are met on time and within budget while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.
• Create potential future opportunities for business growth in different engineering fields in the United States, with support from international teams from IDIADA Headquarters and other IDIADA Business Units.

Qualifications

• Professional Profile:
• Minimum 7 years of project management experience, preferably in automotive, technology, or field operations environments.
• At least 5 years of experience in field operations management, public road durability testing or automotive testing programs (preferred).
• Demonstrated experience with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) or autonomous vehicle testing projects.
• Prominent track record managing multi-site operations with distributed teams across multiple geographic locations.
• Strong budget management and financial oversight experience, including P&L responsibility (preferred).
• Experience managing large teams (20+ people) with diverse skill sets and responsibilities.
• Familiarity with safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and risk management in automotive or testing environments.
• Valid US driver's license required; willingness to travel across the U.S. up to 30-40% of the time.
• Experience working with international teams and clients is highly desirable but not required.
• Essential Qualities & Competencies:
• Exceptional leadership and people management skills with ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
• Outstanding communication abilities, both written and verbal, with experience presenting to senior leadership.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with ability to make decisions under pressure.
• High adaptability and flexibility to manage changing priorities in a dynamic operational environment.
• Technical aptitude with ability to understand and communicate complex autonomous vehicle systems concepts.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with demonstrated ability to build and maintain client relationships.
• Strong organizational and time management capabilities with attention to detail.
• Results-oriented mindset with focus on meeting deadlines and achieving project objectives.
• Collaborative approach with ability to work effectively across different departments and organizations.
• Passion for automotive technology and commitment to advancing the future of mobility.
• Education & Certifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field (required).
• Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or related discipline (preferred but not required).
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent (highly desirable).
• Llean Six Sigma certification or similar process improvement credentials (a plus).

Additional Information

• Job Functions:
• Must be physically able to support test preparation and execution in an outdoor environment.
• Must have a flexible schedule and be able to work extended hours and weekends.
• Meet all workplace health and safety requirements and practices.
• Schedule:
• Monday to Saturday
• Company Information:
• APPLUS IDIADA is an equal opportunity employer.