Mgr II, Project

Job Purpose

The Project Manager is a member of the Project Management Office and is responsible for leading locomotive design and build projects that are large in scope and complexity. This includes managing multiple concurrent efforts across Locomotive Builds, Research and Development, Rebuild and Repower, Aftermarket, and Power Products—ranging from small-scale initiatives to New Product Introduction (NPI).

The Project Manager oversees all phases of the project lifecycle: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing. Responsibilities include planning, budgeting, team coordination, stakeholder communication, and documentation to ensure successful project delivery aligned with contractual and organizational goals.

The Project Manager collaborates with senior leadership to ensure transparency regarding project health, scope, and direction, and works cross-functionally with engineering, supply chain, operations, and customer-facing teams. The ideal candidate demonstrates entrepreneurial problem-solving skills and a proven ability to manage complex, capital-intensive projects.

Req

11140

City

La Grange

State:

Illinois

Company Description

Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities.

In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Key Job Elements

Initiating

• Manage multiple projects across Locomotive Builds, R&D, Rebuild and Repower, Aftermarket, and Power Products, ranging in scope from small-scale efforts to New Product Introduction (NPI).

• Define and communicate project scope, goals, and deliverables, engaging all relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment and transparency.

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Planning

• Lead the development of comprehensive project plans, including scope, schedule, budget, and resource allocation.

• Organize, structure, and manage project teams to meet the specific needs of each project.

• Ensure thorough scoping of each project and proactively manage changes to contract scope or deliverables.

• Develop and implement risk management strategies to minimize project risks.
Executing

• Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.

• Communicate project status regularly to internal teams and external customers, as defined by the contract.

• Ensure all contractual deliverables are met with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
Monitoring & Controlling

• Monitor and control project costs; manage the overall project budget effectively.

• Apply appropriate verification techniques to manage changes in scope, schedule, and cost.

• Measure project performance using established systems, tools, and techniques.

• Report and escalate issues to senior management as needed, including participation in Stage Gate and Project Review presentations.

• Proactively identify and resolve potential issues; facilitate corrective actions with team members prior to escalation.
Closing

• Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation throughout the lifecycle and upon project completion.
Miscellaneous / Other Responsibilities

• Accept special assignments as directed by leadership.

• Travel as required to fulfill project duties (20–30%).

• Contribute to team development and mentoring of junior staff when applicable.

Education / Training

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree with emphasis in Business, Engineering, Project Management or…