Project Leader – Automation Systems (AGVs) – Greenfield Project

About the role

We are looking for a Project Leader to drive the design, implementation and start‑up of Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) systems for a new greenfield manufacturing site in Mantova, Italy. The role will manage the full capital‑investment lifecycle, ensuring compliance with Nestlé standards, safety and quality requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the project charter, controls, schedule and cost estimates for the AGV scope.
• Lead basic and detailed design of AGV solutions, producing URS and ensuring alignment with material‑flow, safety and integration requirements.
• Coordinate suppliers, contractors and internal teams through technical reviews, FAT, SAT and risk analyses.
• Oversee installation, testing, commissioning and ramp‑up of AGV equipment, conveyors and end‑of‑line systems.
• Support Operations and Start‑Up leaders to transition the project to steady‑state production, handling interface issues and documentation.
• Monitor budget, timing and risk, reporting progress and escalating critical issues to senior management.

Required profile

• Minimum three years of experience leading capital‑investment projects in the food‑manufacturing sector.
• Proven ability to manage cross‑functional teams, including direct and indirect reports.
• Hands‑on experience with AGV systems, end‑of‑line integration and intralogistics.
• Fluent written and spoken English; Italian is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of SHE requirements and risk‑prevention methods.

Required skills

• AGV system design and integration.
• Project scheduling and cost estimation.
• Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
• Budget tracking and financial reporting.
• SHE compliance and safety management.

What we offer

• Annual base salary of €62,500.
• Annual bonus of 7% of base salary.
• Permanent, full‑time contract under the CCNL Industria Alimentare.
• Opportunity to work on a high‑visibility greenfield project within Nestlé Purina PetCare.