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Engineering Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering, Project Management, or related field * 5+ years' experience in Project/ Program Management * 5+ years managing multi-year, complex regulated projects/programs We ...

You will partner closely with engineering, product, and business leadership to deliver initiatives ... Drive Operational Excellence and Scale • Drive continuous improvement in program management ...

Bachelor's degree in engineering, Project Management, or related field * 5+ years' experience in Project/ Program Management * 5+ years managing multi-year, complex regulated projects/programs We ...

Technical Program Manager

Chicago, IL

$132K - $172K/yr

The Technical Program Manager (TPM) will lead Cayuse's most consequential cross-functional ... Partner with engineering to lead the end-to-end design, development, testing, and execution of ...

You will partner closely with engineering, product, and business leadership to deliver initiatives ... Champion modern, scalable approaches to program management supported by intelligent tooling.

Technical Program Management * Product Development Engineering * Technical Expertise Combination product testing and development. * Device verification and validation activities. * DHF (Design ...

New

Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $90/hr

Program Manager - IT Portfolio & PMO LaSalle Network is partnering with a client in the Greater ... With units specializing in Accounting and Finance, Administrative, Engineering, Marketing ...

Engineer Content for AI Agents: Architect and structure all technical documentation to be optimized for semantic search and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), ensuring internal and external AI ...

Manages the program's budget and financial performance * Coordinates the projects and their ... MEE required (Master in Electrical Engineering) * CCNA or similar IT certification is required

Manages the program's budget and financial performance * Coordinates the projects and their ... MEE required (Master in Electrical Engineering) * CCNA or similar IT certification is required

Program Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$102K - $193K/yr

Act as Team Lead to assigned programs, building a team of cross-functional members, conducting ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, applied science, finance, business, management, or economics * An ...

Act as Team Lead to assigned programs, building a team of cross-functional members, conducting ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, applied science, finance, business, management, or economics * An ...

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Showing results 1-20

Engineering Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$86.6K

$130.5K

$135.1K

How much do engineering program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering program manager in Chicago, IL is $130,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,000.00 and $133,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a TPM stressful?

Being a Technical Program Manager (TPM) can be stressful due to managing multiple projects, tight deadlines, and coordinating cross-functional teams. The role often requires strong organizational skills, problem-solving, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially in fast-paced tech environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engineering Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineering Program Manager, you need a strong background in engineering principles, project management experience, and typically a relevant degree such as in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools like Jira, Microsoft Project, and certifications such as PMP or Agile methodologies are often required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for effectively coordinating cross-functional teams, managing complex projects, and delivering successful engineering outcomes on time and within budget.

What does a program manager do in engineering?

An engineering program manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects, coordinating teams, resources, and schedules to ensure goals are met on time and within budget. They facilitate communication between stakeholders, manage risks, and often use project management tools like Gantt charts or Agile methodologies to track progress.

How does an Engineering Program Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project's lifecycle?

Engineering Program Managers serve as a central point of coordination, working closely with engineers, product managers, designers, and quality assurance teams to ensure project milestones are met. They facilitate regular meetings, track progress, address roadblocks, and communicate updates to all stakeholders. This collaborative approach helps align technical objectives with business goals and ensures everyone is moving in the same direction. Strong communication and organizational skills are critical for managing these cross-functional relationships effectively.

What is the difference between Engineering Program Manager vs Product Manager?

AspectEngineering Program ManagerProduct Manager
Primary FocusManaging engineering projects, timelines, and technical teamsDefining product vision, features, and user experience
Required SkillsTechnical knowledge, project management, cross-team coordinationMarket research, user empathy, strategic planning
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, technical stakeholdersDesign, marketing, customer feedback teams
Common UsageTech companies, engineering departmentsProduct development, tech and consumer companies

While both roles involve cross-functional collaboration, Engineering Program Managers focus on technical project execution and engineering processes, whereas Product Managers concentrate on product strategy and customer needs. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or hiring the appropriate role for project success.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineering roles in fields such as software engineering, data engineering, and specialized technical leadership can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, stock options, and bonuses. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries like technology or finance.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, electrical, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives in competitive industries like technology and aerospace.

What does an Engineering Program Manager do?

An Engineering Program Manager oversees and coordinates engineering projects from conception to completion. They are responsible for planning project timelines, allocating resources, managing budgets, and ensuring that project deliverables meet quality standards. Engineering Program Managers serve as a bridge between engineering teams and other departments, helping to communicate goals, track progress, and resolve any obstacles that arise. Their role is critical in ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope while meeting technical and business objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Engineering Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Engineering Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Engineering Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Engineering Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Engineering Program Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Engineering Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Engineering Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, and 94% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $130,518 per year, or $62.7 per hour.
Program Manager

Program Manager

Wabtec

Chicago, IL • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
Who will you be working with?
Wabtec's Digital Intelligence Signaling & Systems team is a recognized industry leader in the successful delivery of complex integrated system projects. These projects involve signaling, train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a strong focus on project execution, schedule adherence, and customer satisfaction.
How will you make a difference?
As a Program Manager you are responsible for the end-to-end delivery of complex rail signaling and systems integration programs across North America within the Wabtec Digital Intelligence - Signaling & Systems (S&S) P&L. You will be responsible for the commercial, technical, and contractual performance of multi-year transportation programs, including conventional signaling, CBTC, PTC, communications, SCADA, and multi-system integration.
You will operate within a matrix organization, leading cross-functional teams and coordinating internal and external stakeholders (customers, primes, subcontractors, and suppliers) to deliver fully integrated rail systems in compliance with contractual, regulatory, and safety requirements.
What do we want to know about you?
You must have:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, Project Management, or related field
  • 5+ years' experience in Project/ Program Management
  • 5+ years managing multi-year, complex regulated projects/programs

We would love it if you had:
  • Rail signaling systems
  • Program management within a matrixed organization
  • Program planning/management systems/tools
  • Capacity planning, scheduling, budget, and execution
  • Contract Management
  • Cost control and forecasting
  • Working with transit agencies / public sector clients
  • Multi-partner or consortium environments

What will your typical day look like?
Your key responsibilities will be:
Program Delivery & Execution
  • Lead full program lifecycle: bid support → execution → testing & commissioning → closeout
  • Deliver programs:
    • On schedule
    • Within budget
    • In line with revenue, margin, and cash flow targets
  • Ensure compliance with:
    • Contract requirements
    • Customer specifications (e.g., transit agencies, FRA/FTA processes)
    • Wabtec quality, safety, and governance standards

Systems Integration Leadership (Critical)
  • Lead delivery of integrated signaling and multi-system architectures, including:
    • CBTC / ATC / PTC
    • Wayside and onboard systems
    • Communications (radio, fiber, network)
    • SCADA / OCC / dispatch systems
    • Traction power and OCS interfaces
  • Ensure:
    • Interface definition and control (ICDs)
    • Cross-system integration planning and execution
    • Coordination across engineering disciplines and external partners

Commercial & Contract Management
  • Own full contract performance, including:
    • Scope management
    • Change Orders (identification, pricing, negotiation)
    • Cost, revenue, and margin performance
  • Lead or oversee:
    • Change Order proposals (scope, cost, schedule, risk)
    • Customer negotiations and claims positioning
  • Actively manage:
    • Earned value / cost vs budget
    • Forecasting (sales & cash)
    • Risk-adjusted financial performance

Risk & Opportunity Management
  • Proactively identify and manage:
    • Technical risks (integration, performance, safety)
    • Commercial risks (margin erosion, cost overruns, claims)
    • Schedule risks (critical path, dependencies)
  • Develop and execute mitigation and recovery plans
  • Escalate issues with clear recommendations and action plans

Stakeholder & Customer Leadership
  • Serve as the primary program interface to:
    • Customers (transit agencies, authorities)
    • Consortium/primes (e.g., rolling stock OEMs, EPCs)
    • Key subcontractors and suppliers
  • Build and maintain strong, long-term customer relationships
  • Lead executive-level program reviews and communications

Governance, Reporting & Reviews
  • Lead internal and external reviews:
    • Monthly/quarterly program reviews
    • Risk reviews
    • Customer progress meetings
  • Deliver high-quality executive reporting, including:
    • Schedule status
    • Cost and margin performance
    • Risk/opportunity status
    • Key decisions and escalations
  • Ensure traceability and auditability of program data and decisions

Team Leadership (Matrix Organization)
  • Lead cross-functional teams across:
    • Engineering
    • Project Controls
    • Procurement
    • Finance
    • Field operations and commissioning
  • Align internal and external resources to achieve program objectives
  • Support development of program management best practices and talent

Continuous Improvement
  • Drive improvements in:
    • Execution processes
    • Forecast accuracy (cost, sales, cash)
    • Risk identification and mitigation
  • Capture lessons learned and applied across programs

Relocation assistance may be provided if eligibility requirements are met.
Qualifications
Additional Information
Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $120000-150000 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.
What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?
At Wabtec, it's not just about a job - it's about the impact you make. When our people come together, we're Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.
If you're ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
Who are we?
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together - are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.
Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We're lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.
Culture powers us and the possibilities.
We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We're building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.
We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.
Need accommodation? Just let us know - we've got you.