LOSSAN Deputy Managing Director - Operations & Programs

Job Description

Deputy Managing Director – Operations, LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency

Under minimal direction, provides executive leadership and oversight of operational, programmatic, and service delivery activities for the LOSSAN (Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo) Rail Corridor Agency. This position leads operational integration, service delivery coordination, capital program implementation support, and passenger-focused initiatives supporting the Pacific Surfliner and broader LOSSAN Rail Corridor. Works closely with member agencies, operators, host railroads, regulators, and internal partners to advance safe, reliable, efficient, and customer-focused rail service.

This is an exempt, executive level management position in salary grade 285:
Min – $221,020.80| Mid – $262,579.20 | Max – $304,116.80/annually.  The starting salary will be within this range based on qualifications.

This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected.

What You’ll Do

• Lead operational and program delivery activities supporting Pacific Surfliner service and the LOSSAN Rail Corridor
• Oversee service implementation, operational readiness, performance monitoring, and integrated service delivery
• Coordinate operational activities across Operations, Capital Programs, Planning, Finance, Marketing, and passenger-focused initiatives
• Lead coordination related to service modifications, disruptions, capital project impacts, and corridor improvements
• Partner with host railroads, operators, member agencies, state agencies, regulators, and other stakeholders
• Evaluate operational performance, service impacts, implementation risks, and customer experience considerations
• Advance corridor resiliency, operational integration, and future rail mobility initiatives
• Prepare and present operational updates and recommendations to executive leadership, stakeholders, and the Board of Directors
• Represent the Agency in regional, statewide, and national rail and transportation forums
• Lead, coach, and develop staff while fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment
• Serve as a member of LOSSAN’s executive leadership team and act as backup to the Managing Director, as needed

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in business, management, or a related field
• Minimum of eight years of senior management experience, including four years of experience managing staff
• Experience in transportation, public agency administration, or related transportation operations
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex operational and program implementation initiatives
• Strong understanding of service delivery, operational performance, and cross-functional coordination
• Proven ability to build effective relationships with operators, public agencies, regulators, and other stakeholders
• Strong executive-level communication, presentation, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to translate organizational priorities and Board direction into effective operational strategies
• Advanced degree preferred

Why You’ll Love It Here

• Help lead one of the nation’s most significant intercity passenger rail corridors
• Shape operational strategies that directly influence Pacific Surfliner service and passenger experience
• Collaborate with rail operators, host railroads, member agencies, and transportation partners throughout the corridor
• Lead complex, high-visibility initiatives that advance rail mobility, reliability, and corridor resiliency
• Serve in a key executive leadership role helping shape the future of intercity passenger rail service

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to help shape the future of OCTA’s programs.

OCTA is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or other legally protected status.