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Program Manager Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

The successful candidate will serve as Volanno's single point of contact with the SJRRC Project Manager and lead all eight Scope of Services tasks About the Program ACE is a commuter rail service ...

The successful candidate will serve as Volanno's single point of contact with the SJRRC Project Manager and lead all eight Scope of Services tasks About the Program ACE is a commuter rail service ...

Systems Program Manager Description - We are seeking a detail-oriented and driven Systems Program Manager to lead program development and product launches. This role is responsible for coordinating ...

Technical Program Manager

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

Technical Program Manager Palo Alto, CA | Full-Time | On-site About Nace AI: Nace AI is an enterprise AI product and research company in Palo Alto (backed by General Catalyst, Walden Catalyst, and ...

In this impactful role within our Finance Program Management Office (PMO), you will drive the planning and execution of cross-Finance process, technology, and data programs to optimize efficiency ...

Technical Program Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$113K - $164K/yr

Job Details: About the Role Altera is seeking a Technical Program Manager to coordinate and drive the engineering execution behind next-generation FPGA device rollouts. In this highly cross ...

The Telephony Program Manager will perform migrations from AVAYA to Cisco UCCE Platform. The ideal Telephony Program Manager will possess strong knowledge of Call Back Assist that is compatible with ...

Engineering Program Manager

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$42.25 - $52.82/hr

Engineering Program Manager Full-time San Jose, CA You'll be joining Adobe on a contract opportunity, employed through NextDeavor Benefits You'll Love NextDeavor offers health, vision and dental ...

Senior Program Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$136K - $136K/yr

They are looking to hire a Program Manager in their Bay Area, CA location! This is an on-site role. Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering, Finance or related field; Master's Degree preferred. 8+ ...

In this impactful role within our Finance Program Management Office (PMO), you will drive the planning and execution of cross-Finance process, technology, and data programs to optimize efficiency ...

Engineering Program Manager

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$42.25 - $52.82/hr

Engineering Program Manager Full-time San Jose, CA, US You'll be joining Adobe on a contract opportunity, employed through NextDeavor Benefits You'll Love NextDeavor offers health, vision and dental ...

Technical Program Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$113K - $164K/yr

Job Details: About the Role Altera is seeking a Technical Program Manager to coordinate and drive the engineering execution behind next-generation FPGA device rollouts. In this highly cross ...

Company Description Intelliswift Software, Inc The Client is looking for a expert in MSFT Project 365, with strong knowledge of how to install it, and use it, in a client server situation. Job ...

Company Description Intelliswift Software, Inc The Program Manager will be responsible for the support of large programs, and creating appropriate documentation, including but not limited to: agendas ...

Company Description Intelliswift Software, Inc The Client is looking for a expert in MSFT Project 365, with strong knowledge of how to install it, and use it, in a client server situation. Job ...

Your Impact As a Program Manager on Splunk Sales Deal Strategy & Execution - Global Programs team, you will drive complex, high-impact enterprise initiatives at the intersection of Cisco and Splunk.

Ergonomic Program Manager

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$75K - $125K/yr

Ergonomic Program Manager - San Jose, CA*Candidates must currently reside in the San Jose/San Francisco Bay Area or be willing to relocate to the area to be considered.Schedule: Full-Time | Hybrid ...

New

Ergonomic Program Manager

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$75K - $125K/yr

Ergonomic Program Manager - San Jose, CA*Candidates must currently reside in the San Jose/San Francisco Bay Area or be willing to relocate to the area to be considered.Schedule: Full-Time | Hybrid ...

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Showing results 21-40

Program Manager information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$44.5K

$124.1K

$181.3K

How much do program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager in Santa Cruz, CA is $124,081.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,800.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program manager?

Program managers are professionals responsible for overseeing multiple related projects within an organization, ensuring they align with strategic goals and deliver expected outcomes. They coordinate the efforts of project managers, manage resources, set priorities, and address risks and issues that arise across the program. Unlike project managers who focus on individual projects, program managers take a broader view, ensuring that all projects within a program work together effectively to achieve long-term business objectives.

What does a program manager do?

The job of a program manager is to plan, organize, and coordinate management programs or external programs for a business or institution. As a program manager, your duties vary depending on the type of organization for which you work, but many of the responsibilities for this role are similar or overlap. You typically supervise numerous associates and analysts who help prepare data and assessments about current programming and how it can be improved. You help to implement new programs for employees or customers and promote them through HR or outreach coordinators and marketing professionals. You also assess individual projects and how they interact with one another.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Manager, you need strong project management skills, strategic planning abilities, and a relevant degree, often supported by certifications like PMP or Agile. Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, or Asana is essential for tracking progress and managing resources. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you motivate teams and navigate complex stakeholder environments. These competencies ensure that programs are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with organizational goals.

What are some common challenges program managers face when coordinating cross-functional teams?

Program Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning priorities across diverse teams, managing conflicting stakeholder expectations, and ensuring clear communication among departments with different workflows. Navigating these challenges requires strong negotiation and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to build consensus and foster collaboration. Successful Program Managers proactively establish regular check-ins, promote transparency, and adapt strategies to keep projects on track and maintain team engagement.

What is the difference between Program Manager vs Project Coordinator?

AspectProgram ManagerProject Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree, PMP or similar certifications often preferredUsually requires a bachelor’s degree; certifications like CAPM are common
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects within a program, strategic focusSupports project teams, handles administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries like IT, construction, healthcareCommon in similar industries, supporting project execution

The Program Manager focuses on managing multiple related projects to achieve strategic goals, while the Project Coordinator supports individual projects with administrative and logistical tasks. Both roles require coordination skills, but the Program Manager has a broader, strategic scope.

How much do program managers make?

Program managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $115,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, industry, and location. In larger organizations or tech industries, salaries can be higher, especially for those with certifications like PMP or experience managing complex projects.

What are the top 3 skills of a program manager?

A program manager needs strong leadership and communication skills to coordinate multiple projects and teams effectively. Organizational and strategic planning abilities are essential for managing complex initiatives and aligning them with business goals. Additionally, proficiency in project management tools and methodologies, such as Agile or PMP, supports successful program execution.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Program Manager jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

For Program Manager jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,081 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Program Manager

Volanno

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
Volanno is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead our technical consulting engagement for the modernization of the ACE Passenger Information Display System (PIDS) - including digital signage and station signage/wayfinding - across all ten ACE stations between Stockton and San Jose Diridon. The successful candidate will serve as Volanno's single point of contact with the SJRRC Project Manager and lead all eight Scope of Services tasks
About the Program
ACE is a commuter rail service operated by SJRRC that links California's Central Valley with the Silicon Valley, serving approximately 1.4 million passengers annually across 10 stations. SJRRC is modernizing the PIDS to deliver real-time arrival information, service alerts, multilingual messaging, branded content, and Public Address supported by SJRRC-supplied networking equipment and aligned with the SJRRC Signage and Wayfinding Manual. This advisory and technical consulting role does not include installation or construction, and the consultant does not conduct training.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
  • Serve as Volanno's lead Project Manager and primary point of contact with SJRRC's PM throughout the contract; SJRRC PM retains final approval authority on all decisions.
  • Manage project scope, budget, and schedule across all eight tasks of the Scope of Services and ensure on-time delivery within the 36-month period of performance.
  • Network Infrastructure Design - develop conceptual network alternatives and requirements (bandwidth, latency, redundancy, security protocols, GTFS integration). Note that SJRRC will supply ALL networking equipment for the PIDS/Digital Signage system network - the consultant is not procuring network hardware.
  • Oversee ADA & Regulatory Compliance - produce the ADA Compliance Requirements Matrix covering visual displays AND Public Address audio, identify FTA/DOT/FRA/Buy America mandates, and draft the Compliance Testing Protocol.
  • Lead single combined RFP/IFB Development - draft technical specifications, SOW, instructions to proposers, contract terms with required federal/state clauses, and evaluation criteria. Facilitate at least three review meetings with SJRRC staff.
  • Lead Signage & Wayfinding Planning - apply the SJRRC Signage and Wayfinding Manual to all 10 stations. Produce existing-conditions assessment, technical standards, placement guidelines, and order-of-magnitude cost/phasing strategy. Reference the MTC Regional Wayfinding Project where applicable.
  • Deliverables shall be procurement-ready, not final design or construction-level documents.
  • Participate on the SJRRC Evaluation Panel- pre-proposal meeting support, response to scope questions, evaluation review, and Board presentation of the staff report for the top-ranked contractor.
  • Manage Consultant Review and Project Implementation - review contractor product, lead proof-of-concept demonstrations, monitor budget/invoicing/contract performance, and conduct periodic on-site visits at ACE stations to review implementation progress.
  • Verify vendor training meets SJRRC's needs through requirements and design review and confirm completeness of training manuals.
  • Execute Project Handover and Closeout - finalize Volanno invoices, vendor contract closeout, and deliver records to SJRRC for retention.
  • Maintain weekly cadence with the SJRRC PM after the initial 180-day milestone period and provide regular written status updates.
  • Monitor federal funding compliance throughout - DOT/FTA Clauses, Buy America, EEO Certification, Lobbying Restrictions, and Debarment/Suspension certifications
  • Manage any Volanno subconsultants under the contract per Attachment B requirements and the SJRRC Sample Agreement.
  • Honor Volanno's firm-level restriction from proposing on the resulting PIDS procurement RFP/IFB; the restriction does not extend to other unrelated SJRRC/SJJPA solicitations.

Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of project management experience leading public transit, commuter rail, or transportation technology modernization programs.
  • Demonstrated experience developing federally-compliant RFPs and/or IFBs (DOT, FTA, FRA clauses; Buy America; EEO; lobbying and debarment certifications).
  • In-depth working knowledge of ADA compliance requirements as they apply to passenger communication systems - visual displays (font size, color contrast, refresh rates), Public Address audio and audible features (text-to-speech, speaker placement), and tactile/Braille signage.
  • Experience specifying PIDS, digital signage, real-time passenger information, or comparable display systems in a public transit environment.
  • Experience specifying communications/IT network architecture (wired, wireless, fiber backbone, redundancy) at a procurement-ready level for distributed station deployments.
  • Experience applying agency-furnished signage and wayfinding standards manuals to multi-station deployments (the SJRRC Manual will not be released until award).
  • Strong stakeholder-interview and discovery skills - comfortable building requirements from scratch where as-builts and documentation are limited or proprietary.
  • Strong written communication skills suitable for technical specifications, SOWs, governance memoranda, and SJRRC Board presentations.
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, transportation planning, IT, architecture, or related field preferred; equivalent professional experience considered in lieu of a degree.

Preferred Qualifications
  • PMP, AICP, RA, or PE certification.
  • Prior engagements with California transit agencies (SJRRC, Caltrain, BART, LA Metro, Sacramento RT, SMART) or interagency rail corridors.
  • Familiarity with FTA Circulars, the Caltrain/Union Pacific operating environment, and applying agency signage/wayfinding manuals to station programs.
  • Awareness of the MTC Regional Wayfinding Project and ability to reference it as a parallel program (this engagement is independent of MTC's harmonization work).
  • Working knowledge of GTFS, GTFS-RT, and real-time train arrival data feeds and message-broker integration.
  • Experience evaluating CalPIDS or comparable statewide passenger information display platforms.
  • Background coordinating with Union Pacific Railroad or the Caltrain Joint Powers Board on right-of-way or shared-station projects.
  • Experience overseeing acceptance testing, contractor site inspections, warranty management, and vendor training reviews.
  • Familiarity with digital advertising display monetization and shared advertising/branded content workflows.

Tools & Methods
  • Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or Smartsheet for scheduling.
  • Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and SharePoint for collaboration and deliverables.
  • Bluebeam, AutoCAD, or similar for reviewing station/architectural drawings.
  • PlanetBids™ vendor portal familiarity (used by SJRRC for procurement administration).

Performance Expectations
  • A single combined, approved RFP (covering PIDS + Signage/Wayfinding) ready for release within 180 days of NTP, per the RFP milestone schedule.
  • Tasks deliverables submitted on the monthly cadence specified in Section 5(D) of the RFP.
  • All deliverables federally compliant, procurement-ready (not construction-level), and suitable for release with minimal SJRRC administrative additions.
  • Periodic on-site visits to ACE stations during implementation to validate progress.
  • Zero conflict-of-interest violations and full disclosure under the SJRRC Conflict-of-Interest Mitigation requirements.

Company Profile
Volanno is a certified woman-owned small business headquartered in Washington, DC. As an IT solution provider, our services include software development, data analytics, and technology implementation. From scoping and defining to implementation and support, we are ready to support our clients' needs at any stage of development in designing and building solutions that prepare them for the future.
Volanno is an equal opportunity employer. Volanno will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or protected veteran status
Salary Description
200,000K