Applus+ IDIADA · 21 hours ago
Project Manager - Vehicle Durability / Field Operational Test
Corona, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
7+ years expApplus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry, supporting its clients in their product development activities. We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead a large-scale autonomous vehicle testing program across multiple locations in the United States, overseeing comprehensive field operational test activities involving a substantial fleet of test vehicles equipped with advanced sensor systems.
Automotive
Responsibilities
Lead a large-scale autonomous vehicle testing program across multiple locations in the United States
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
Qualification
Required
Minimum 7 years of project management experience, preferably in automotive, technology, or field operations environments
Demonstrated experience with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) or autonomous vehicle testing projects
Proven track record managing multi-site operations with distributed teams across multiple geographic locations
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
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
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field (required)
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
This role requires the ability to sit, stand, and work for extended periods of time in an office setting
Preferred
At least 5 years of experience in field operations management, public road durability testing or automotive testing programs (preferred)
Strong budget management and financial oversight experience, including P&L responsibility (preferred)
Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or related discipline (preferred but not required)
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent (highly desirable)
Lean Six Sigma certification or similar process improvement credentials (a plus)
Experience working with international teams and clients is highly desirable but not required
Company
Applus+ IDIADA
Applus+ IDIADA is a global partner to the automotive industry with over 30 years’ experience supporting our clients in product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing, and homologation services.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageRecent News
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