Job Description
Project Manager - FMCG Manufacturing Projects
Location: Midwest US (Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois - ideally Chicago/Milwaukee area)
Project Duration: Initially 12 months (with potential extension)
Employment Type: Contract or Permanent (flexible based on candidate preference)
Travel Requirement: Extensive - full-time on-site presence required across multiple client locations
About Us
Our client are a specialized project services company with a strong presence across the UK, Europe, and US, focusing on hygienic construction and project management within the food manufacturing, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors. With over 15 years of industry experience, they partner with leading FMCG manufacturers to deliver high-quality projects from conceptual design through to completion.
The Opportunity
We're seeking two Project Managers to work under our Project Portfolio Manager, overseeing multiple concurrent projects for a key client across various manufacturing sites in the Midwest. This is a hands-on, site-based role ideal for someone who thrives in dynamic manufacturing environments and is comfortable spending significant time on client sites.
Project Scope
- Project Values: $200K - $15M (varied portfolio)
- Typical Projects: Facility refurbishments, new equipment procurement and installation, production line expansions, drainage upgrades, and equipment relocations
- Current Major Initiative: Installation of a third production line replicating existing infrastructure
- Sites: Multiple locations across Wisconsin, Indiana, and the Chicago/Milwaukee area
Key Responsibilities
- Manage multiple concurrent projects across various client manufacturing sites
- Provide full-time on-site project management support and leadership
- Oversee construction activities and equipment installation/commissioning
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams including engineering, construction, and equipment suppliers
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification
- Maintain comprehensive project documentation including capacity models, material quantities, and compliance records
- Manage contractor relationships and on-site resources
- Ensure all work meets hygienic construction standards and regulatory requirements
- Report regularly to the Project Portfolio Manager on progress, risks, and issues
Essential Requirements
- Engineering background (M&E or relevant discipline)
- Proven experience as a Project Manager or Project Engineer within FMCG, food manufacturing, or beverage sectors
- Strong understanding of hygienic construction principles and clean facility requirements
- Experience managing construction and equipment installation projects
- Excellent knowledge of equipment procurement processes
- Willingness to travel extensively - this role requires full-time on-site presence with weekly travel home
- Based in or willing to relocate to the Midwest (ideally Chicago/Milwaukee area to facilitate weekend travel home)
- Strong documentation and organizational skills
- Self-motivated and able to work independently on client sites
Desirable Requirements
- Project management qualification (Prince2, PMP, or equivalent)
- Experience with production line installations and replications
- Knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing standards
- Experience working from conceptual design through to project completion
- Background in drainage systems and facility infrastructure
Job Tags
Permanent employment, Contract work, For contractors, Relocation, Flexible hours, Weekend work,