Manager of Procurement

Job description

Procurement at MTS is more than contracts—it’s a critical function that enables transit operations across the region. 

We’re looking for a Manager of Procurement who can lead a high-performing team, navigate complex public procurement requirements, and partner across the organization to deliver strategic, compliant, and efficient outcomes.  

Why MTS

• This is an opportunity to step into a high-impact leadership role supporting a mission-driven organization that keeps the San Diego region moving. 
• You’ll join a collaborative environment where your work directly influences operations, infrastructure, and long-term organizational strategy. 

What You’ll Do 
This is a highly visible leadership role with significant organizational impact. You’ll: 

• Lead and develop a team of 12, including two Assistant Managers and two Senior Procurement Specialists 
• Oversee a complex procurement portfolio, including 350+ active contracts and 180+ capital projects with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding exposure, supporting significant annual capital and operational spend across the agency 
• Own the delivery of procurement activities, ensuring contracts and projects are executed on time and in compliance with regulatory requirements 
• Partner closely with the Director of Supply Chain to shape and implement the department’s strategic plan  
• Serve as a key partner to departments, guiding procurement strategies and ensuring alignment with organizational priorities 
• Manage vendor selection, performance, and issue resolution 
• Coordinate Board agenda submissions, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with Board standards 
• Monitor departmental budgets and support annual planning and forecasting 
• Ensure audit readiness and mitigate risk across procurement processes, contracts, and vendor performance 

What We’re Looking For 

• 7+ years of procurement experience, ideally in a public sector or transit environment  
• At least 3 years of leadership experience managing teams and complex procurement activities  
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local procurement regulations (FTA, CPUC, etc.)  
• Experience overseeing contracts, audits, and compliance-driven environments  
• A collaborative leader who can influence across departments and drive results  

Compensation 

Salary Grade 13*: $112,095 – $159,175 annually 
*Final offers are based on experience, internal equity, and market factors. 

Benefits & Total Rewards 
At MTS, our benefits go beyond salary—supporting your financial security, health, and work/life balance: 

• Pension + Retirement: Defined benefit pension (CalPERS), Social Security, and optional 457(b)/401(a) plans  
• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision with MTS covering up to 90% of medical premiums  
• Time Off: 18 days of PTO to start + 13 paid holidays  
• Insurance: Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability coverage  
• Perks: Free transit passes, wellness reimbursements, and tuition assistance (up to $5,000/year)  
• & much, much more! 

Application Deadline: Position will remain open until filled. 

EEO is The Law - Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled 

MTS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer with an ongoing commitment to treat all people, including customers, co-workers and the public at large, with dignity and respect. As a public transportation agency, MTS is committed to providing an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and live.

MTS supports and promotes an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. MTS recruits, hires, trains and promotes individuals without regard to race, such as hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age (40 years or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition (cured or rehabilitated cancer), physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, genetic information (including family medical history), military or veteran status, or any other protected class. 

MTS encourages veterans, military spouses and people from different backgrounds to apply for open positions for which they are interested. Additionally, MTS employees are encouraged to refer qualified candidates from all backgrounds and age groups. At MTS, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.