Senior Manager, Bus and Transit Innovations

WestStart-CALSTART is looking for a dynamic individual who will lead the organization's efforts in developing and implementing innovative solutions in the transit sector that will improve air quality, reduce dependence on oil, and create new economic opportunities. A key objective for this position will be to work with the transit industry and to foster the growth of new technologies and systems, such as Bus Rapid Transit, that will result in increased transit ridership. This person will actively work with diverse stakeholders and lead them toward common objectives in support of WestStart-CALSTART's mission.

The Organization: 

WestStart-CALSTART is North America's leading advanced transportation consortium working to accelerate the commercialization of clean, energy efficient transportation technologies and services. The organization serves as a strategic broker on behalf of its more than 120 participating companies and agencies. Founded in 1992, WestStart-CALSTART has developed and managed over $150 million in technology development and industry support programs.

WestStart-CALSTART has been instrumental in building the necessary public-private partnerships to bring promising vehicles, fuels and propulsion systems to the market. The organization currently has major programs to facilitate the commercialization of hybrid trucks and buses, fuel cell and hydrogen buses, and other alternative fuels and advanced transportation technologies. WestStart-CALSTART has also launched a major effort to enhance public transit by providing innovative "first" and "last" mile service at transit locations. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

WestStart-CALSTART has an opening for an experienced and highly motivated person to serve as a Senior Project Manager and oversee our Transit Innovations program.This is a senior level position, responsible for leading large projects and programs related to the transit sector and reducing vehicle miles traveled.

WestStart-CALSTART has worked closely with the Federal Transit Administration to support the emerging U.S. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) industry. Among other activities, this person would manage WestStart-CALSTART's BRT program. This senior manager level position will be responsible for leading and supervising a small team within the organization. In addition to having some business development responsibilities, this person will also manage relations with key WestStart-CALSTART customers and stakeholders.

Necessary Skills and Experience

The ideal candidate will be a highly capable professional with a minimum of 5-10 years of experience, preferably in the transit or bus industry. Candidates should be effective leaders and supporters of work teams, and have demonstrated the ability to supervise others. S/he will have a minimum of a bachelor's degree. S/he will also have either a technical background or be able to demonstrate competency when dealing with technologies and technical issues. Exceptional writing and communication skills are essential and candidates must be capable of presenting to and working with industry groups. A working understanding of and ability to use spreadsheets and databases is required.Candidates must have a questioning mind and be able to think strategically and creatively. Along with an ability to think "outside of the box" the candidate should have a high level of passion for the WestStart-CALSTART mission. 

In addition to the qualities listed above, the candidate must be able to perform the following tasks with a high degree of competency and efficiency:

Apply strong facilitation skills in bringing together diverse stakeholders groups and building consensus around clear technology commercialization goals and objectives;
Provide leadership, organize and work on complex projects, oversee and assist project teams, and develop strategic directions for our Bus Rapid Transit Program;
Apply high levels of project management discipline in the areas of planning, budgeting, cost tracking, quality and scheduling to all projects;
Conduct, oversee and lead industry wide assessments using a variety of survey tools and develop meaningful conclusions about the status of technologies and market demand;
Write and prepare high grade proposals and project reports in a timely manner;
Take complex technical concepts and present them in a clear and compelling way; and
Make presentations and represent WestStart-CALSTART at industry meetings and conferences. 

Additional Desired Skills, Knowledge, and Attributes: The following skills and experience will be viewed favorably but are not required for the position: An advanced degree; Knowledge of the Bus Rapid Transit industry; Specific technical expertise or familiarity with clean and efficient propulsion systems and fuels including hybrids; and General curiosity and interest in technical matters. 

The open position is at WestStart-CALSTART's Pasadena, California office. 

Compensation and Benefits: WestStart-CALSTART offers a competitive salary along with a comprehensive and impressive benefits package. 

How to Apply for Employment:

Applicants should send their responses in email form only and must include a thoughtful cover letter explaining why they should be considered for this position and a resume. A salary history is also requested. Female and minority candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.