Strategic Technology Project Manager

Job Purpose and Summary

This position is responsible for developing and managing key initiatives and emerging technology projects related to the organization-wide goals of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) and the Information Technology (IT) department’s Technology Vision Roadmap. Work also involves researching and maintaining an awareness of external technology advancements and recommending changes to improve effectiveness of current IT projects/programs. Work is performed with considerable independence and reviewed for attainment of program goals, completion of projects, and overall performance. This position functions as a lead and provides project supervision over other project managers, internal subject matter experts, technical staff, and external consultants.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Manages multiple organization-wide initiatives and projects involving emerging technology. Develops the approach, objectives, and goals; builds and manages a project team; establishes timelines; and manages program and project budgets that support the overall vision and mission of the PTC. 

Researches and stays abreast of external technological market shifts and trends and translates them into opportunities for IT improvements and advancements. Develops recommendations and implements changes to IT’s proactive short-term and long-term plans, goals, and programs to improve overall efficiency and effectiveness. 

Proactively engages technological subject matter experts in high-level solution determination and direction-setting. Routinely interfaces with internal committees to determine priorities, develop project action plans, facilitate approvals, and work across organizational boundaries to deliver project solutions that meet the objectives of those groups. 

Supports strategic planning and execution of multi-year initiatives that may involve multiple interrelationships and complexities. Manages, consults, and provides direction of the IT department’s Technology Vision Roadmap and organization-wide goals of the PTC involving technology in consultation with other IT leaders and staff.  

Prepares management plans and communications for new initiatives and innovation efforts. Prepares executive management, senior staff, and IT leadership for speaking engagements with PTC stakeholders regarding technology initiatives. 

Manages the work of internal staff and external consultants engaged in assigned projects. Develops and implements methods for team communications and progress reporting. Delegates tasks as appropriate, sets clear standards for outcomes, and provides feedback. Responsible for achieving project objectives and completion on time, on budget, and in conformance to PTC methodologies and practices. 

Conducts change impact and stakeholder analyzes to understand the effects of a proposed IT change on the PTC. Identifies potential risks associated with the changes and formulates mitigation/change strategies. Provides professional guidance and direction to address unique/complex issues that arise during project execution to mitigate risks and enhance project outcomes. 

Builds relationships and maintains professional liaison with internal/external staff and consultants, other transportation agencies, new and existing relationships with professional organizations and emerging technology partnerships, and key vendors. Ensures the proper and timely promotion of PTC initiatives and programs to appropriate stakeholder groups. 

Develops and maintains monitoring and tracking tools needed to measure and understand the execution and success of projects/programs. Prepares reporting for the IT department and for technology initiatives using dashboards and spreadsheets. 

Conducts, participates, and/or represents the PTC in designated meetings, committees, planning groups, trainings, or seminars.

Uses situational awareness to anticipate and prevent accidents.

Performs related duties as requested.

Qualifications

Ten (10) years of experience in technology, engineering, business operations management, or planning, with at least two (2) years of experience in project management;
OR
Six (6) years of experience in technology, engineering, business operations management, or planning, with at least two (2) years of experience in project management AND a bachelor’s degree in technology, engineering, business management, planning, or related field. 
Equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be accepted. 

Competencies

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Position demands include frequent speaking, writing, and reading reports. Position requires frequent work at a computer utilizing business programs and PTC specific operating systems. Position requires minimal travel and/or fieldwork with exposure to roadway traffic. Occasionally works outside of normal business hours for assigned work assignments.

Office environment with low levels of noise, adequate lighting, and comfortable temperature. Field environment may include exposure to moderately adverse and undesirable conditions. Physical environment is generally safe, but safety equipment or precautions must be followed in field conditions.  

Disclaimer

The information provided in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by the incumbent(s) within this job. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and working conditions required of the employee(s) assigned to this job. Management has the discretion to add or modify duties of the job and to designate other functions as essential at any time.