Project Leader – Manufacturing Engineering

About the role

The Project Leader will drive capital expenditure projects, plant utility optimization and technical infrastructure upgrades at Colgate‑Palmolive’s Gebze manufacturing plant. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the role provides full technical ownership from feasibility through commissioning.

Key responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end execution of CapEx projects, including feasibility studies, ROI analysis, SOW drafting, RFP, vendor negotiations, installation, and IQ/OQ/PQ commissioning.
• Oversee plant utility systems (HVAC, steam, compressed air, water treatment, chilled water, power distribution) to ensure safe, continuous, and efficient operation.
• Apply Lean, World Class Manufacturing and TPM methodologies to eliminate waste, reduce minor stoppages and improve line throughput.
• Collaborate with Maintenance to define preventive and predictive maintenance strategies under FP&R standards.
• Drive automation initiatives such as AMR/AGV material transport, automated feeding and case packing, and implement AI/ML‑powered smart‑factory solutions.
• Serve on the ISO 50001 Energy Management Team to deliver energy‑saving, water‑conservation and net‑zero projects.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Chemical or related engineering discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of engineering experience in project management, manufacturing or technical operations within FMCG/CPG environments.
• Strong command of written and spoken English.
• Proven ability to manage multi‑disciplinary teams and global stakeholders.

Required skills

• CapEx budgeting and ROI analysis
• AutoCAD for layout drafting
• MS Project and advanced Excel
• SAP PM/PS and OPERA ERP/MES systems
• Lean/WCM/TPM tools (5S, Kaizen, SMED, FMEA, PFMEA)
• Plant utility systems knowledge (steam, HVAC, compressed air, water treatment)
• Automation technologies (AMR, AGV, PLCs, AI/ML, IIoT, digital dashboards)